24 MPG combined. Considering the 2015 Porsche Cayman S is a mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car designed for driving pleasure, that number tells you everything. No, it’s not Prius territory, but for the person prioritizing razor-sharp handling, a naturally aspirated flat-six soundtrack, and Porsche pedigree, the Cayman S delivers a perfectly acceptable balance of performance and economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Cayman S at 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway with the automatic AM-S7 transmission. These figures reflect stop-and-go driving and sustained high-speed cruising. The city number will drop significantly if you spend your time exploiting the engine’s responsive throttle, and the highway MPG can be improved by using cruise control and resisting the urge to downshift for overtakes at every opportunity. This car isn’t bought for commuting, but it CAN handle daily driving, and these numbers reflect that duality.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2015 Porsche Cayman S. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which this car requires. Remember that this a snapshot based on those two specific assumptions. If you drive fewer miles, or if fuel prices decrease, your actual fuel cost will be lower. A lead foot or consistently higher gas prices will push that annual figure upwards.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Cayman S owners frequently report numbers close to the EPA estimates, but driving style plays a significant role. Aggressive acceleration and frequent track days will severely diminish fuel economy, bringing it closer to the high teens. A more relaxed driving style, particularly on longer trips, can see some owners exceed the 29 MPG highway rating. Consistent maintenance, like proper tire inflation and regular servicing, will also positively impact fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2015 Cayman S occupies a specific performance niche. It’s more fuel-efficient than some of its direct competitors, and less efficient than others, but that is only one consideration for its target owner. For example, the BMW M235i (later M240i) of the same era offered similar performance with a turbocharged inline-six, achieving around 22 MPG combined. The Nissan 370Z, a less refined but still potent sports car, typically hovered around 21 MPG combined. The Audi S5 coupe with its supercharged V6 managed around 21 MPG combined. See CAYMAN MPG across all years to compare this model year to others. Buyers choose the Cayman S for its mid-engine balance, responsiveness, and the inherent desirability of the Porsche badge, understanding that they are paying a small premium at the pump.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Cayman S rewards smooth driving. Avoid abrupt acceleration and braking to minimize fuel consumption. The engine’s willingness to rev can be intoxicating, but short-shifting and using the available torque lower in the rev range will significantly improve your MPG. The automatic transmission’s programming also favors efficiency in normal driving modes, so resist the urge to constantly drive in Sport or Sport Plus if fuel economy is a concern.

Consider your tire pressures. Maintaining the recommended pressure, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb, is crucial for optimal rolling resistance and fuel efficiency. Check them regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate. While performance tires are essential for the Cayman’s handling, ensure they are not excessively wide or track-focused, as those can increase rolling resistance and decrease MPG.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. The Cayman S is a lightweight sports car and adding extra weight in the trunk or passenger seat will only hurt performance and fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, and keep the interior clean and clutter-free. Every little bit helps, especially in a car as sensitive to weight distribution as the Cayman.

Plan your routes intelligently. Avoiding stop-and-go traffic is the single most effective way to improve fuel economy in any car. Use navigation apps to identify the quickest and most efficient routes, even if they are slightly longer in distance. The Cayman S is wonderful on a winding road, but fuel efficiency suffers when you are constantly accelerating and braking through congested areas. See all Porsche fuel economy data to compare against other models.