25 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s a perfectly acceptable number for the 2015 Porsche Cayman GTS. This isn’t a hybrid promising Prius-crushing efficiency, it’s a mid-engine sports car meticulously engineered to deliver driving thrills. The 3.4L flat-six needs a steady diet of premium fuel to do its job properly and the person buying a Cayman GTS understands this trade-off, prioritizing performance over saving a few dollars at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Cayman GTS at 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway when equipped with the optional seven-speed PDK automatic transmission (listed as AM-S7 by the EPA). Considering the car’s focus on spirited driving, these numbers are surprisingly respectable. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic will inevitably impact fuel consumption, but even then, the Cayman’s relatively light weight and efficient engine design help mitigate the damage.

Out on the open road, the GTS rewards a more relaxed driving style with genuine highway cruising capability. The tall gearing in the PDK transmission allows the engine to run at lower RPMs, contributing to the commendable 30 MPG rating. Those selecting the standard six-speed manual can expect slightly lower, but still respectable, numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Porsche Cayman GTS at $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Keep in mind that actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of gasoline used. If you have a heavy foot or live in an area with high gas prices, expect to exceed this figure. Conversely, consistently smooth driving and favorable fuel costs could result in a lower annual expense. Checking all Porsche fuel economy data will help you determine if other Porsches may better fit your spending habits.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a valuable benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. The Cayman GTS encourages enthusiastic driving, and those who frequently exploit its performance potential will likely see figures closer to the 20 MPG mark in combined driving. Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency and take advantage of the car’s cruising ability may achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA highway estimate. Ultimately, how you drive the car will have a significant impact on your fuel consumption.

Track days, weekend canyon runs, and a generally aggressive driving style will all increase fuel consumption. The specific driving mode selected (Normal, Sport, Sport Plus) can influence fuel economy, with the more aggressive modes generally leading to higher fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars in its class, the 2015 Cayman GTS holds its own when it comes to fuel economy. The BMW M235i, for example, achieves around 22 MPG combined, making the Cayman GTS a slightly more efficient choice. The Audi TTS offers similar performance with an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined. Stepping up to more powerful sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, particularly those with larger displacement engines, will result in significantly lower fuel economy numbers, often dipping below 20 MPG combined. If you are also interested in older or newer models, checking CAYMAN MPG across all years may provide further insight.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smooth and efficient driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, anticipating traffic flow whenever possible. The Cayman GTS responds well to a gentle touch, and fuel efficiency will improve significantly with a more relaxed approach. Resist the urge to constantly use the engine’s power.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly and adjust as needed, especially when temperatures change.

Minimize idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. Avoid prolonged idling, particularly in cold weather. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption. Cruise control minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, resulting in improved efficiency during long highway drives.