The 2019 Porsche Cayman S 2.5L gets 24 MPG combined, which won’t set any fuel efficiency records. However, fuel consumption should be viewed in the context of this car: a precision-engineered, mid-engine sports car built for a thrilling driving experience. For Cayman S buyers, fuel economy is somewhere on the list, but likely far below factors like handling, acceleration, and pure driving enjoyment.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Cayman S at 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. This reflects the compromise involved in balancing performance and efficiency from a powerful turbocharged engine. The city MPG suggests stop-and-go traffic will take a noticeable toll. On the open road, particularly with cruise control, the 28 MPG highway figure is reasonable and achievable.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche Cayman S at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is highly recommended (and often required) for best performance in turbocharged engines like the Cayman S’s 2.5L flat-four, so your annual fuel cost could exceed this estimate, especially if fuel prices rise or your driving habits are more aggressive. A Cayman S with some miles on it is likely to need some repairs and services, so factor those into your budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy for the 2019 Cayman S will vary based on driving style, road conditions, and maintenance. Drivers who frequently exploit the engine’s power band, enjoy spirited acceleration, and take advantage of the Cayman’s impressive handling will likely see fuel economy closer to the city estimate, or even slightly below. More conscientious drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds should be able to achieve figures closer to the highway estimate. Individual results will vary.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars, the 2019 Cayman S balances performance and fuel efficiency well. The BMW M2 Competition, a similarly powerful and engaging sports car, gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. The Audi TTS, with a turbocharged 2.0L engine and standard all-wheel drive, manages a slightly better 25 MPG combined. Even the Mazda MX-5 Miata, known for its lightweight design and fuel efficiency, achieves 29 MPG combined but sacrifices the Cayman’s reliable horsepower and chassis. Buyers who prioritize fuel economy above all else may consider a different class of vehicle entirely, a hybrid sedan, for example. But among sports cars, the Cayman S’s fuel consumption is fairly typical, and CAYMAN MPG across all years is similarly reasonable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth and steady acceleration is crucial. Aggressive throttle inputs waste fuel, especially with a turbocharged engine. Anticipating traffic flow and avoiding sudden bursts of speed can significantly improve your fuel economy. Drive gently.

Maintain your vehicle according to Porsche’s recommended service intervals. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, improving fuel economy. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and that your spark plugs and air filter are in good condition. A quality oil change, done according to the service manual, can also make a difference.

Use cruise control where possible, especially on long highway journeys. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and braking, improving fuel efficiency. Do not use cruise control in hilly areas, as the car will sometimes hold a lower gear longer than necessary.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying excess cargo increases fuel consumption. Remove any non-essential items from your trunk or passenger compartment, particularly heavy objects. While a few extra pounds doesn’t make a difference in a larger SUV, it will in a light car like this.

Consider using the Cayman S’s driving modes to optimize fuel efficiency. Selecting “Normal” mode will generally result in better fuel economy compared to “Sport” or “Sport Plus” modes, which prioritize performance. The fuel economy figures are based on conservative driving for a reason, so the most aggressive driving mode will almost certainly see a dip.

For buyers less interested in the Cayman S’s performance and more interested in maximizing fuel efficiency within the Porsche brand, browsing all Porsche fuel economy data might reveal more suitable options. The Cayman S buyer accepts its fuel consumption as a trade-off for the driving experience.