20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s almost irrelevant to the driver who selects a 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet. A driver choosing this specific blend of performance and open-air exhilaration isn’t prioritizing fuel efficiency; they’re seeking a visceral driving experience. It’s a purchase driven by passion, not pragmatism, so while the fuel bill matters, it’s far down the list of considerations.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet will achieve 18 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway. The difference between these figures reflects the car’s character. In stop-and-go urban environments, the turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six is less efficient, as the engine needs to work harder. That responsiveness, so desired on a winding road, turns into slight throttle modulation. However, on the open road, where the engine can stretch its legs and the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic (AM-S8) can settle into higher gears, the fuel economy improves noticeably. The AM-S8 transmission is brilliantly tuned for both performance and efficiency, shifting smoothly when desired but always ready with an immediate downshift. Remember that these figures represent an average; aggressive driving will obviously yield lower numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet will be $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required, adding to the overall expense. This calculation offers a standardized benchmark, but your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway miles you typically drive. Some owners may exceed this figure significantly, while those who primarily use the car for longer trips might see slightly lower fuel expenses, although we doubt this will be the reason they purchased such a vehicle.

Real-world expectations

Expect some variance in your real-world fuel economy numbers. The EPA figures are a useful guide, but they are generated in a controlled laboratory setting. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and even tire pressure can all impact fuel consumption. The 911’s eagerness to accelerate and its intoxicating exhaust note often encourages spirited driving, which will naturally reduce fuel economy. If you spend most of your time navigating congested city streets, exceeding 18 MPG could prove challenging. Conversely, on long highway cruises, achieving or even slightly surpassing 23 MPG is certainly possible if you resist the urge to exploit the car’s prodigious power.

How it compares

Compared to its performance-oriented peers, the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet’s fuel economy is in line with expectations, but with some notable exceptions. The BMW M4 Competition Convertible, for example, achieves a combined 18 MPG. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet is in the same ballpark, at 19 MPG combined. However, the Audi R8 Spyder, with its naturally aspirated V10, manages just 16 MPG combined, highlighting the efficiency of the 911’s turbocharged engine. For buyers considering these models, the 911 stands out as a balanced offering that doesn’t entirely sacrifice efficiency for performance, even though that isn’t its primary goal. The ability to access all Porsche fuel economy data for comparison is useful, but few would choose a different car solely on the basis of a few MPG.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The 911 rewards smooth, precise inputs, and gentle acceleration will help to conserve fuel without sacrificing the fun of the drive, when conditions allow.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual or on the doorjamb sticker. This is good practice for overall driving safety and it helps prevent premature wear on expensive tires.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient at operating temperatures so letting your 911 idle to warm up isn’t necessary and wastes fuel even if it does sound great! If you’re waiting for someone or stopped for an extended period, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. The engine management system will ensure optimal engine performance and efficiency when you restart.

Make use of cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed can improve fuel economy, especially on long journeys. Cruise control helps to avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations, which can waste fuel. The car’s adaptive cruise system can be extremely helpful here.

Consider your route carefully. Avoiding congested areas and opting for routes with fewer stop-and-go situations can significantly improve fuel economy. Planning your route in advance and using navigation systems to find the most efficient path can save you fuel and time. Comparing 911 MPG across all years can give you insight into what similar drivers report experiencing.