22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any efficiency awards, but it’s a perfectly reasonable number for the 2021 Porsche Panamera 4 e-Hybrid Sport Turismo. This is a car that prioritizes driving experience and versatility over fuel savings. Buyers in this segment understand this trade-off and are willing to accept mid-pack fuel economy in exchange for the Panamera’s unique blend of performance, luxury, and practicality.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA numbers, the Panamera 4 e-Hybrid ST gets 21 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving where the hybrid system can use its electric motor for limited emission-free driving, improving fuel consumption compared to using only the internal combustion engine. Out on the open road, at steady cruising speeds, 24 MPG is an acceptable figure for a car with over 450 hp and all-wheel drive.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Porsche Panamera 4 e-Hybrid ST is $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a calculated percentage of city versus highway driving, using the prevailing national average fuel prices. Individual results will vary because driving habits and local fuel costs fluctuate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs from the official numbers. With the Panamera 4 e-Hybrid ST, driving style is a significant factor. Aggressive acceleration will rely heavily on the gasoline engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Careful use of the electric motor in hybrid mode can potentially improve upon the EPA estimates, especially on shorter journeys where electric-only driving is feasible. Owners who regularly charge the battery and maximize electric driving range will see significantly lower fuel costs compared to those who treat the hybrid system as a performance enhancer.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury plug-in hybrids and performance wagons, the Panamera lands in the middle. For perspective, the BMW 530e xDrive Sedan achieves a combined 28 MPG, highlighting the fuel-sipping potential of smaller, less powerful hybrid sedans. On the other hand, a comparable Mercedes-AMG E53 Wagon, which isn’t a plug-in hybrid, sees figures closer to 21 MPG combined. Even looking at other Panamera models, you can gain some insight, so comparing PANAMERA MPG across all years makes sense to see where this model lands. The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo, a fully electric wagon from Porsche, eliminates fuel costs. For buyers cross-shopping these models, a careful assessment of driving patterns and charging availability is essential.

Check all Porsche fuel economy data to help compare the Panamera 4 e-Hybrid ST to other models made by this same brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “E-Hold” and “E-Charge” modes. The E-Hold mode allows you to reserve the battery’s current charge for later use in city driving, and the E-Charge mode actively charges the battery while driving, although it does slightly increase fuel consumption. Experiment with both to find which works best for your routine.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. The Panamera’s hybrid system is most efficient when you drive with a light foot. Smooth, gradual acceleration and braking will minimize the use of the gasoline engine. Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary stops.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Every extra pound in the vehicle increases fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and backseat to reduce weight and improve efficiency. Don’t treat your Panamera as a storage garage.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and opting for routes with fewer stop-and-go situations helps preserve fuel. Using the navigation system to find the most efficient route can contribute to better fuel economy.