23 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but it’s respectable for a 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman T with the 2.0L turbocharged flat-four. This isn’t for grocery runs; this is a focused, mid-engine sports car for backroads and the occasional track day. Fuel efficiency is less important than balanced handling, quick response, and driving enjoyment. The Cayman T is for the enthusiast who prioritizes the driving experience, understanding that performance costs money, even for gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 718 Cayman T at 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go urban driving, where the engine accelerates and decelerates constantly. The responsive throttle and the eagerness of the turbocharged 2.0L engine directly affect the city MPG. On the open road, the Cayman T does better. At a steady highway speed, the engine is more efficient, allowing for nearly 30 MPG. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK), standard on the “T” model, helps, keeping the engine in its optimal power band for both performance and efficiency, and many owners find they can exceed the EPA highway estimate on longer road trips if they resist using the car’s performance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman T at $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year at the national average fuel price, but your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and local gas prices. Drivers who frequently drive hard or spend a lot of time in traffic will likely see a higher annual fuel cost than those who primarily use the car for longer highway trips.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy for the 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman T depends on driving style. Someone who constantly uses Launch Control and explores the upper ranges of the tachometer should expect to see numbers closer to 18-20 MPG. A driver who adopts a more relaxed approach and emphasizes smooth acceleration and consistent speeds could realistically achieve or even slightly exceed the EPA combined estimate. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even air conditioning can also affect fuel consumption. Remember to check 718 MPG across all years to see data from other years.

How it compares

The 718 Cayman T’s fuel economy is generally competitive compared to other sports cars in its class. A BMW M2 Competition, with its more powerful inline-six engine, achieves around 20 MPG combined. The Alpine A110, known for its lightweight construction and nimble handling, manages slightly better, around 25 MPG combined. A Nissan Z, with its 3.0L twin-turbo V6, comes in around 22 MPG combined. The somewhat disappointing figure in the Cayman is a concession for the power and responsiveness that Porsche created from this relatively small-displacement engine. The choice between these cars comes down to preferences for performance, handling, and brand appeal, with fuel economy typically playing a secondary role. Check all Porsche fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Normal” driving mode for everyday commuting. The Cayman T offers different driving modes that affect throttle response and shift points. Selecting “Normal” mode will reduce aggression and prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. This adjustment can make a difference over the course of a week.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it’s within the recommended range, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI below the recommended pressure can negatively impact fuel efficiency.

Anticipate traffic and avoid hard acceleration and braking, because every aggressive maneuver extracts its own fuel penalty. By anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed, you can minimize unnecessary fuel consumption, optimizing efficiency under normal driving conditions. Try to let the car coast into traffic lights or slow down gradually rather than slamming on the brakes.

Service your car on time. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures that your engine is running optimally. A well-maintained engine will operate more efficiently and use less fuel. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule to keep your Cayman T in top condition.