22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s perfectly acceptable for the 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster S. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a precision instrument designed to deliver driving thrills, not maximize miles per gallon. The typical 718 Boxster S buyer prioritizes exhilarating performance, sharp handling, and the visceral experience of open-top motoring far above thriftiness at the pump. They understand that a mid-engine sports car with a turbocharged flat-four isn’t engineered for hypermiling.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for the 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster S equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK). The city figure reflects urban driving, where the engine spends more time at idle and accelerating. The highway number demonstrates that the 718 Boxster S can achieve decent fuel economy when cruising at a steady speed. However, those numbers can quickly plummet when exploiting the turbocharged engine’s potential for rapid acceleration and engaging in spirited driving, which is precisely what most owners do.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster S. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required for the 718 Boxster S, which will almost certainly make your real-world annual fuel expenses higher than the EPA estimate. As always, your individual driving habits and local fuel prices determine the actual amount you spend on gasoline throughout the year. Aggressive driving will significantly degrade fuel economy and increase the annual expenditure.

Real-world expectations

Drivers who regularly engage in aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving will likely see fuel economy figures below the EPA estimates. Those who prioritize smooth and consistent throttle inputs, and generally drive at lower speeds, could possibly match, or even slightly exceed, the EPA estimates. If you’re considering this car, look at 718 MPG across all years in owner forums to get an understanding of what drivers are really experiencing, day to day.

How it compares

The 2023 BMW Z4 M40i, with its more powerful inline-six engine, manages a slightly better 26 MPG combined. A base Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, despite having a V8, surprisingly achieves around 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, very similar to the Boxster S. On the other end, the diminutive Mazda MX-5 Miata offers notably better fuel economy, with EPA estimates reaching as high as 26 MPG combined, demonstrating the efficiency benefits of its naturally aspirated, smaller engine and significantly lighter weight. These fuel economy comparisons are important to consider, but the performance and driving dynamics are so different between these vehicles that it’s unlikely to sway a 718 Boxster S buyer to consider an alternative.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use smooth and gradual acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of throttle, especially from a standstill. The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine can be particularly sensitive to aggressive driving, so maintaining a steady foot on the accelerator will help to conserve fuel.

Take advantage of the automatic start/stop system. The 718 Boxster S comes standard with this feature, which shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, such as at a traffic light. This can save a noticeable amount of fuel in city driving, where the engine would otherwise be idling.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation levels.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Removing any extra cargo reduces the burden on the engine and improves fuel efficiency. This is particularly relevant for a sports car like the 718 Boxster S, where every pound counts toward performance.

Plan your routes carefully to avoid congested areas and prolonged idling. Time spent sitting in traffic significantly reduces fuel economy, so choosing routes with fewer stops and starts can help to conserve fuel. You might want to review all Porsche fuel economy data to help you find the most efficient model for your needs.