With 22 MPG combined, the 2020 Porsche Panamera 4 Executive isn’t aiming for top fuel efficiency. This is a grand touring sedan. It’s a luxurious, fast car intended for buyers who want performance and space more than low fuel consumption. For the buyer who wants sports car characteristics in a comfortable, long-wheelbase car, that 22 MPG is a reasonable trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Panamera 4 Executive gets 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how stop-and-go traffic increases fuel use, while the highway number is more acceptable. The difference between city and highway MPG suggests that getting the best efficiency means using the car’s relaxed cruising abilities on open roads, and avoiding constant acceleration and braking in urban driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Porsche Panamera 4 Executive at $2,650 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city driving and 45% highway driving, using national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark for understanding the costs of owning this car, and those who drive harder or have longer commutes should expect to spend more. The Panamera 4 Executive needs premium fuel, which adds to the cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a standard reference, but real-world MPG will change depending on driving style, traffic, weather, and even tire pressure. Hard acceleration, using the car’s power, will reduce fuel economy. However, careful driving with gradual acceleration will get results closer to the EPA estimates. Seeing figures slightly above 26 MPG on long highway trips isn’t impossible, especially using adaptive cruise control. Panamera buyers likely aren’t focused on maximizing MPG, but knowing how driving habits affect fuel use can still have a meaningful effect.

How it compares

Compared to other large luxury sedans, the Panamera 4 Executive’s fuel economy is average. The BMW 740i, with its 3.0L inline-six, achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz S450, also with a 3.0L inline-six, gets a similar 22 MPG combined. The Audi A8, with its 3.0L V6, is rated at 23 MPG. The numbers don’t fully show the Panamera’s driving character. Porsche values dynamic handling and engaging performance over fuel efficiency, that is appealing to buyers wanting a sportier experience. Reviewing PANAMERA MPG across all years can be helpful when deciding between these cars.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Panamera’s automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency, so avoid hard acceleration and let the car shift smoothly. Avoid flooring the accelerator, especially from a stop. Moderate acceleration uses much less gas, and the engine’s torque means you won’t lose performance for daily driving.

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check tire pressures often, especially when the weather changes, as colder temperatures can lower tire pressure.

Reduce idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running, but idling uses gas without covering distance. If you’re waiting for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is more important if you spend time in stop-and-go traffic during your commute.

Use cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control keeps a consistent speed, and this improves fuel economy. The Panamera’s adaptive cruise control is helpful. It adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, improving efficiency without sacrificing safety.

Consider using the Panamera’s driving modes. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes sharpen throttle response and hold gears longer, while “Normal” or “Eco” modes improve fuel efficiency by adjusting engine and transmission settings. This can save fuel, especially during everyday driving. For more information on Porsche vehicles check all Porsche fuel economy data.