Described is a technique for managing the content of a nonvolatile solid-state memory data cache to improve cache performance while at the same time, and in a complementary manner, providing for automatic wear leveling. A modified circular first-in first-out (FIFO) log/algorithm is generally used to determine cache content replacement. The algorithm is used as the default mechanism for determining cache content to be replaced when the cache is full but is subject to modification in some instances. In particular, data are categorized according to different data classes prior to being written to the cache, based on usage. Once cached, data belonging to certain classes are treated differently than the circular FIFO replacement algorithm would dictate. Further, data belonging to each class are localized to designated regions within the cache.