The 2021 Porsche Panamera 4S Executive gets 19 MPG combined. This means that this Panamera variant is a high-performance luxury vehicle where efficiency is secondary, but still relevant. Buyers considering the extended-wheelbase 4S Executive know they’re prioritizing rear-seat space, a comfortable ride, and power over high fuel economy. This isn’t about getting every possible mile from a gallon of fuel, it’s about mitigating the cost of performance and luxury while enjoying everything else this Panamera delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway for the 2021 Panamera 4S Executive. The city MPG reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the responsive 2.9L twin-turbo V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission cycle frequently, impacting fuel consumption. The highway figure indicates that when cruising at consistent speeds, the Panamera can achieve respectable efficiency, aided by its aerodynamic profile and tuned drivetrain. However, aggressive acceleration, a temptation when owning a Porsche, will lower that highway number to its city counterpart.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Porsche Panamera 4S Executive is $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices when the calculation was made. This number can vary depending on individual driving habits and changes in fuel costs. If you frequently drive fast or live in an area with higher fuel prices, your actual annual spending on gasoline could exceed this $3,050 estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a benchmark, real-world fuel economy often changes. Panamera 4S Executive owners report figures that change based on their driving style, the type of roads they travel, and weather conditions. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and use the car’s driving modes are more likely to approach the EPA estimates. On the other hand, those who frequently use the engine’s power and spend more time in traffic should expect lower MPG.

How it compares

Competitors in the luxury performance sedan segment offer different fuel economy numbers. The BMW M550i xDrive, for example, achieves a comparable 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, making it a slightly more efficient option. The Mercedes-AMG E53 Sedan posts similar numbers in real-world use. The Audi S7, with its fastback profile, averages around 22 MPG combined. The Panamera 4S Executive’s fuel economy aligns with its peers, but potential buyers should consider all Porsche fuel economy data, or they can browse PANAMERA MPG across all years to determine if these small differences are material to them. This comparison is important because, while performance is important for this buyer, understanding where the Porsche sits within its competitive set provides context to the ownership experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Normal” or “Eco” driving modes whenever possible. The Panamera’s drive modes alter throttle response and transmission behavior. Selecting a conservative mode encourages smoother acceleration and earlier upshifts, saving fuel. Save “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes for when you want to use the car’s full potential.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Maintaining the correct tire pressure, as indicated on the door jamb sticker, reduces rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes, as this can affect tire inflation.

Avoid idling. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly, negating any benefit of idling.

Anticipate traffic flow and drive smoothly. Hard acceleration and braking consume more fuel. By anticipating changes in traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed, you can minimize braking and acceleration, leading to better fuel economy. This style of driving also contributes to a relaxing driving experience.

Use cruise control on the highway when possible. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing changes in throttle input. This can be beneficial on long highway drives, where even subtle changes in speed can impact fuel economy. Only use cruise control when traffic conditions are light and safe.