21 MPG combined might seem underwhelming, but it’s precisely aligned with the mission of the 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0L. This isn’t a commuter car designed for maximum fuel savings. It’s a scalpel-sharp, mid-engine roadster engineered to deliver pure driving thrills, and its fuel consumption reflects that prioritization. The person buying this car focuses on the symphony of that naturally aspirated flat-six behind their head, not the price at the pump. They understand the trade-off, and they gladly accept it.

City and highway performance

The 718 Boxster GTS 4.0’s EPA ratings reveal a more nuanced picture than just the combined number. The 19 MPG city figure reflects the nature of urban driving: stop-and-go traffic, lower speeds, and frequent acceleration that works the engine harder. On the open road, the 24 MPG highway rating demonstrates that the engine can achieve respectable efficiency when cruising at a steady speed. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (AM-S7) certainly helps; its quick and precise shifts keep the engine in its optimal power band and contribute to maximizing economy when you’re not actively chasing lap times.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. Some GTS owners will likely drive far fewer than 15,000 miles annually, enjoying their roadster only on weekends or track days, resulting in a lower annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies depending on driving style and conditions. Owners who frequently indulge in spirited driving, exploring the upper reaches of the tachometer and enjoying the exhaust note at full throttle, will likely see fuel economy figures lower than the EPA estimates. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and use the transmission’s higher gears might be able to achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA ratings, particularly on longer highway drives.

How it compares

The 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 exists in a niche segment, but it’s worthwhile to see how its fuel economy stacks up against its rivals. The BMW Z4 M40i, while not a direct competitor in terms of driving experience, offers a similar open-top experience and scores around 25 MPG combined with its turbo-six. A Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible achieves around 19 MPG combined with its V8, trading some economy for considerable power. Looking within the Porsche family, you can view 718 MPG across all years. For those seeking improved Porsche fuel economy, you can view all Porsche fuel economy data. The GTS buyer understands that vehicles like these require certain tradeoffs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While outright fuel efficiency isn’t the primary concern for most 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 owners, there are still ways to optimize fuel consumption without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment. Use smooth acceleration and avoid aggressive throttle inputs, particularly from a standstill. The PDK transmission adapts to your driving style; gentle inputs will encourage it to upshift sooner, keeping the engine in its most efficient range.

Take advantage of the car’s various driving modes. Selecting “Normal” mode will generally result in improved fuel economy compared to “Sport” or “Sport Plus,” as it alters the throttle response and shift points to prioritize efficiency over outright performance. These modes can make the car almost too docile, however, so keep it in mind.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressures and adjust as needed to maintain optimal efficiency and handling.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the frunk or trunk adds weight to the vehicle, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need to carry on a daily basis to minimize weight and improve fuel economy.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Constant braking and acceleration consume more fuel than maintaining a steady speed. Using navigation apps to identify and avoid congested areas can help improve your fuel economy, especially during peak traffic times.