20 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling competitions, but for a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, it’s almost beside the point. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s an experience. The visceral thrill of a flat-six engine singing under full throttle, the precise steering carving through corners, and the wind rushing through your hair as you accelerate towards the horizon make it special. Someone who buys this car isn’t prioritizing fuel efficiency. They value performance, heritage, and the sheer joy of driving. The miles per gallon number is simply a cost to join that exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet are 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s dual nature: tractable and relatively docile when cruising around town, but ferociously quick when unleashed on the open road. The 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AM-S8) plays a crucial role here. It provides shifts in automatic mode for comfortable everyday usability, and lightning-fast gear changes when you take control with the paddle shifters. The all-wheel drive system also contributes to the car’s overall efficiency, providing optimal traction and stability in all conditions, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet at exactly $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fluctuations in fuel prices. If you frequently engage in spirited driving or live in an area with high fuel costs, expect to exceed this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. With the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, your mileage will heavily depend on your driving style. If you spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic or frequently exploring how high the tachometer goes, expect to see numbers closer to the city MPG rating. However, on long highway journeys with the cruise control set, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 23 MPG highway estimate is entirely possible. Remember that the temptation to exploit the 911’s performance is ever-present, and resisting that urge will be key to maximizing your fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet occupies a unique space in the market, blending performance and open-top exhilaration. Consider the BMW M4 Competition Convertible, which offers similar levels of performance but achieves around 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet, with its more potent V8 engine, delivers even lower figures, hovering around 17 MPG combined. These alternatives offer different driving experiences, but highlight that the 911’s fuel economy is fairly competitive within its performance class. For those willing to compromise on top-down thrills, the Audi R8 Coupe offers slightly better fuel economy, registering around 14 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, but it comes with a significantly higher price tag and a different performance focus. You can view 911 MPG across all years to see how the current model compares with prior versions.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the selectable driving modes. The “Normal” mode is calibrated for everyday driving and will prioritize fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle response and shift points. Resist the urge to immediately switch to “Sport” or “Sport Plus” unless the situation calls for it, as these modes dramatically increase fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Tire pressure significantly impacts rolling resistance, and underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy by several miles per gallon. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Given the car’s performance, always stick with Porsche-approved tires.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, gradual inputs will help you conserve fuel and reduce wear and tear on your vehicle. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible instead of repeatedly accelerating and decelerating. The 911 has huge reserves of power; use them judiciously to save fuel.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying around extra weight in your car can reduce fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and passenger compartment to lighten the load. Every pound saved contributes to lower fuel consumption and improved handling.

Consider shorter trips in a different vehicle. While the 911 is surprisingly comfortable, using it for very short errands increases wear and tear and rarely allows the car to reach its optimal operating temperature. Using a more economical car, or walking/cycling, for short journeys will significantly improve the 911’s yearly fuel consumption. View all Porsche fuel economy data for other options in the lineup.