17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but let’s be honest: if you’re cross-shopping the 2023 Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe with a Prius, you’ve wandered into the wrong showroom. This is a performance SUV, a statement powered by a raucous 4.0L V8 designed to deliver thrills, not hypermiling. The Cayenne GTS Coupe buyer prioritizes driving dynamics, a visceral exhaust note, and the prestige of the Porsche crest above all else. Fuel efficiency is a distant consideration, at best.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Cayenne GTS Coupe at 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the characteristics of a high-performance, naturally aspirated V8 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, puts a strain on fuel consumption. The highway figure is more palatable, but still reflects the reality that this vehicle is engineered for spirited driving at any speed. The immediacy of the throttle response and the engine’s willingness to rev invite a heavy foot, negating any potential for maximizing fuel economy. Ultimately, the actual MPG you achieve will depend heavily on your driving style.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe at $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a blend of 55% city and 45% highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Remember that premium fuel is required, which contributes to the higher annual cost. The $3,400 figure provides a benchmark against which to compare other vehicles. Drivers covering significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, or those with consistently aggressive driving habits, should anticipate spending considerably more.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to achieve or exceed the EPA estimates, unless you treat the accelerator pedal with the utmost restraint. Real-world driving of the Cayenne GTS Coupe, especially by those drawn to its performance, is likely to yield figures slightly below the official numbers, especially in mixed driving conditions. Expect the city MPG to be lower, and the highway MPG achievable only on long cruises where you can resist the urge to exploit the engine’s power. Some owners have reported numbers closer to 13-14 MPG in daily driving, for example.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the Cayenne GTS Coupe’s fuel economy is in the expected range for a performance SUV. The BMW X6 M Competition, with its twin-turbo V8, achieves a similar 15 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe also hovers around the 16 MPG mark combined. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport P530 with its V8 offers similar performance, but sees numbers closer to 18 MPG combined, making it one of the slightly more efficient options. A difference that is unlikely to sway a Porsche enthusiast, however. These comparisons highlight that performance SUVs prioritize power and driving experience over fuel efficiency. See CAYENNE MPG across all years or all all Porsche fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be your primary concern, there are still steps you can take to minimize fuel consumption in your Cayenne GTS Coupe. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The GTS’s powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension encourage spirited driving, but a gentle right foot will make a difference. Use the Porsche’s configurable drive modes, some of which are designed to optimize fuel efficiency. While “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes are tempting, selecting “Normal” or “Eco” can reduce fuel consumption on longer highway drives.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels for optimal performance. This is especially important because buyers often opt for the larger wheel and tire packages.

Lighten the load. Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds strain on the engine and increases fuel consumption. A clean, organized vehicle is more pleasant and efficient.

Consider the route you take. Plan your trips to avoid congested areas and excessive idling. Stop-and-go traffic significantly impacts fuel economy. Opt for routes with smoother traffic flow whenever possible to maintain consistent speeds and reduce fuel wastage.