19 MPG combined, that’s the EPA rating for the 2021 Porsche Cayenne S Coupe, and while it won’t win any fuel efficiency awards, it’s likely a figure that is irrelevant to its target buyer. This isn’t a car purchased for its frugality, it’s a statement; it’s about high performance, head-turning design, and the Porsche crest on the hood. If you’re worried about squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel, you’re probably not cross-shopping this with a Toyota Prius Prime.

City and highway performance

The Cayenne S Coupe, equipped with its twin-turbocharged 2.9L V6 engine and a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, delivers an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s stop-and-go performance, where the turbos spool up frequently, and the auto stop/start function kicks in often trying to help. The highway number suggests a more relaxed cruise, albeit one capable of very rapid acceleration when needed. The spread between city and highway indicates that while performance is always available, efficiency gains can be had by maintaining a steady speed on long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2021 Porsche Cayenne S Coupe. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy of 19 MPG. The calculation uses the national average fuel price, which can fluctuate considerably depending on location, time of year, and global events.

While $3,050 is a significant sum, potential buyers of the Cayenne S Coupe will likely view it as a relatively small cost of ownership compared to the vehicle’s purchase price, insurance, and maintenance.

Real-world expectations

Expectations are important when it comes to fuel economy, and driving style heavily influences the numbers you’re actually seeing on the dashboard. The 2.9L V6 in the Cayenne S Coupe is potent, and it encourages spirited driving. Frequent bursts of acceleration, hard braking, and aggressive cornering will all decrease fuel economy significantly. Commuting in dense urban traffic will likely keep the MPG closer to the city estimate, while longer highway journeys, driven at a steady pace, could potentially exceed the EPA’s highway figure. While the on-board trip computer can offer some insight, manually calculating fuel economy by tracking miles driven and gallons consumed will provide the most accurate picture of individual driving habits and their impact on fuel consumption. The CAYENNE MPG across all years varies significantly depending on the model and engine option.

How it compares

Consider the alternatives: The BMW X6 M50i, a direct competitor, achieves a similar combined MPG of 18, leaning slightly towards performance over efficiency. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe manages around 20 MPG combined, offering a small advantage. Even within the Porsche family, the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid Coupe, despite its hybrid powertrain, often sees real-world MPG figures close to or even lower than the Cayenne S Coupe due to the weight of the batteries and the temptation to exploit its considerable power. These comparisons highlight the inherent trade-off between performance and fuel economy in the luxury performance SUV segment.

Those seeking improved efficiency within the Porsche lineup might consider exploring all Porsche fuel economy data to compare hybrid models like the Cayenne E-Hybrid.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. The Cayenne S Coupe likely came with performance-oriented tires, and maintaining the correct pressure, as indicated on the door jamb sticker, will reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressures, especially with changing temperatures.

Use the driving mode selector wisely. The Cayenne S Coupe features various driving modes that adjust engine and transmission settings. Selecting “Normal” or “Eco” mode can prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. Avoid “Sport” or “Sport Plus” unless you truly need the added responsiveness as they will negatively affect gas mileage.

Anticipate traffic flow. Avoiding unnecessary acceleration and braking is key to maximizing fuel economy. Look ahead, anticipate changes in traffic conditions, and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. A smooth driving style reduces the workload on the engine and minimizes fuel consumption.

Lighten the load. Extra weight decreases fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle. Empty out the trunk and remove roof racks or cargo carriers when they are not being used. Every pound adds up and impacts the amount of fuel needed to get you where you’re going.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine, unless, of course, you’re in traffic and it is unsafe to do so.