24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but for a razor-sharp, mid-engine sports car like the 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman 2.0L, it’s a number that acknowledges reality. Cayman owners are chasing thrills, not hypermiling records, and they know that performance requires compromise at the pump. They’re buying the Cayman for its surgical precision, its telepathic steering, and its visceral connection to the road, not for its ability to sip fuel like a Prius.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 718 Cayman’s 2.0L engine, when paired with the automatic (AM-S7) transmission, are 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the turbocharged engine’s responsiveness is valued. The highway figure is more reasonable, suggesting that longer journeys won’t require constant refueling. This split shows the Cayman’s dual nature: a capable daily driver with weekend track potential.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman 2.0L at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Individual driving habits and fuel price changes can change this estimate. Aggressive driving, premium fuel, and varying local fuel costs can all increase the annual number. While $2,400 might seem significant, it’s a understood cost for Cayman drivers: people who prioritize driving experience and performance and often can afford it.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who often use the Cayman’s performance capabilities spirited acceleration, high-speed cornering, and frequent use of “Sport” mode will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates. However, those who drive more carefully, using cruise control on the highway and anticipating traffic in the city, may achieve numbers closer to or slightly exceeding the EPA ratings. Like any turbocharged engine, fuel efficiency of the 718 Cayman will vary depending on the driver.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars, the 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman’s fuel economy is competitive. The BMW Z4 sDrive30i, with its 2.0L turbocharged engine, gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined, giving it a small edge, but it lacks the Cayman’s mid-engine balance and raw driving feel. The more powerful Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, with its 6.2L V8, manages approximately 19 MPG combined. The Alpine A110, not sold in North America, gets around 38 MPG combined according to WLTP testing, but has less horsepower than the Cayman and thus does not have the same performance. These comparisons highlight the trade-offs in the sports car segment: more performance equates to lower fuel economy, and vice versa. Those seeking better efficiency in the Porsche family can explore all Porsche fuel economy data, but they won’t find it within the 718 lineup. See 718 MPG across all years to get more data on this model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the temptation to constantly use the engine’s power. The 2.0L turbo is responsive, and its readily accessible torque can be addictive, but careful use of the throttle will prevent fuel consumption from rising.

Take advantage of the automatic (AM-S7) transmission’s higher gears on the highway. Allowing the car to cruise in the highest possible gear reduces engine RPM and saves fuel, especially beneficial on long journeys at consistent speeds.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Maintaining the correct tire pressure, as indicated on the doorjamb sticker, minimizes rolling resistance, improves fuel economy, and ensures optimal handling.

Use “Normal” driving mode for everyday commuting. The Sport and Sport Plus modes sharpen throttle response and alter shift points, but they also decrease fuel efficiency. Save those modes for when you’re looking to truly use what the Cayman has to offer.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Removing unnecessary items from the roof rack (if equipped) and avoiding prolonged high-speed driving will reduce drag, enabling the engine to work less hard and consume less fuel.