16 MPG combined. Let’s be blunt: that’s atrocious for almost any modern vehicle. But the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS isn’t just any vehicle. It’s a scalpel, a purpose-built instrument designed to deliver unfiltered driving thrills. For the enthusiast who prioritizes track-day dominance and backroad carving above all else, fuel economy is simply a secondary consideration, perhaps even not considered at all. These are buyers who likely own multiple vehicles and understand the price of admission to the high-performance world. They aren’t cross-shopping hybrids. They’re seeking the most visceral experience possible, and Porsche designed the Spyder RS to deliver precisely that, regardless of what the fuel gauge reads.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 718 Spyder RS will achieve 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine producing 493 horsepower. The city figure indicates frequent stop-and-go driving will punish the fuel tank, and aggressive acceleration away from traffic lights is unavoidable with such a potent engine. The highway number, while slightly improved, still lags behind even modestly powered sedans. Sustained high speeds can also impact the MPG number, making this a roadster that requires regular fill-ups on spirited drives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS at exactly $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. This is a considerable sum, exceeding the annual fuel costs of many daily drivers by a significant margin. However, prospective owners should view this cost as part of the overall ownership experience. If a multi-thousand dollar fuel bill makes an owner hesitate, this is likely not the car for them.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s figures provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy with a car like the 718 Spyder RS is heavily influenced by driving style. Frequent trips to the track will drastically lower MPG, because the vehicle will be driven how it was designed to be driven: flat out. Even on the open road, the temptation to explore the upper reaches of the tachometer is strong, and constant surging will drain the tank faster than the EPA predicts. Owners dedicated to maximizing fuel efficiency can likely achieve the EPA numbers and maybe even exceed the highway estimates during steady cruising, but restraint is required.

How it compares

Competitors in the high-performance sports car segment offer similarly underwhelming fuel economy. For example, the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, while offering slightly better highway numbers, also returns very similar overall numbers even with its cylinder deactivation technology. The BMW M4 Competition convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, offers slightly better highway efficiency but also falls short of being considered fuel-sipping. A less-extreme, naturally aspirated 718 model such as the GTS 4.0 does see slightly improved figures, but at the cost of the peak performance that defines the RS. Buyers in this segment generally prioritize performance above all else, accepting the fuel economy penalties that come with it. Those who are looking for fuel efficiency in the Porsche range can explore all Porsche fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 718 Spyder RS isn’t designed for fuel efficiency, some techniques can help to keep fuel consumption under control, especially on public roads.

Smooth and consistent throttle inputs are key. This vehicle’s engine responds immediately to even slight changes, so careful pedal control minimizes unnecessary fuel usage. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking while cruising unless conditions require it. The automatic transmission is adept at selecting the appropriate gear for maximum efficiency if left to its own devices.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is critical for both safety and optimal fuel economy. The 718 Spyder RS specifically prescribes tire pressures in relation to driving mode and operating environment. Reference the owner’s manual for the recommended pressures and check regularly. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption, and decreased handling performance.

Limit the use of accessories that draw power from the engine. The climate control system, while effective, can increase fuel consumption, especially in hot weather. Consider using the climate control sparingly and opt for natural ventilation when possible. Any reduction in electrical load on the alternator lightens the engine’s workload.

While tempting, reduce your reliance on Sport or Sport Plus modes on public roads. They enhance throttle response and handling, but are mostly suited to a racetrack environment. The higher revs required by sportier modes, combined with more aggressive shift patterns from the transmission, dramatically increase fuel consumption. If you’re looking for more information on efficient Porsche vehicles, check out the 718 MPG across all years.