16 MPG combined won’t impress anyone prioritizing fuel efficiency, but the 2022 Porsche Cayenne Turbo isn’t built for hypermiling. It’s a high-performance SUV designed for drivers who value exhilarating acceleration, sharp handling, and a luxurious driving experience more than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Cayenne Turbo’s fuel economy at 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the demands placed on the reliable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. Stop-and-go traffic forces frequent acceleration from a standstill, significantly impacting fuel consumption. Open highway driving allows the engine to cruise more efficiently, but even then, the engine’s potential for rapid acceleration constantly tempts drivers to dip into the power reserves, taking a toll on efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Porsche Cayenne Turbo is $3,600. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and fuel prices based on the national average for premium gasoline at the time of testing. This figure is only an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the number of miles you drive each year.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the Cayenne Turbo will often deviate from the official numbers. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling can all depress MPG figures. On the other hand, careful driving and prioritizing highway miles can help drivers approach, and even exceed, the EPA estimates. Achieving the rated fuel economy depends on the individual driver’s habits and driving environment. To see CAYENNE MPG across all years, resources are available online.

How it compares

The Cayenne Turbo’s fuel economy sits squarely within the range expected for high-performance SUVs. The BMW X5 M, with its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, achieves a nearly identical 15 MPG combined, and the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, another competitor in this segment, also mirrors the Cayenne Turbo with its 16 MPG combined rating. Even some less powerful SUVs struggle to significantly outperform the Cayenne Turbo. For example, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport P400, equipped with a mild-hybrid inline-six, only manages 19 MPG combined, a modest improvement given its less potent engine. For all Porsche fuel economy data, consult online resources.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Cayenne Turbo is not inherently fuel-efficient, there are steps owners can take to improve their MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions dramatically increase fuel consumption. Smooth, gradual throttle inputs and anticipating traffic flow can make a noticeable difference over time.

Maintain proper tire inflation, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker. This simple maintenance task can also improve handling and tire wear.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The Cayenne Turbo features a quick restart system, so there’s minimal inconvenience associated with shutting off the engine.

When possible, consolidate trips to reduce the number of cold starts. Cold starts are particularly fuel-intensive, as the engine requires additional fuel to reach optimal operating temperature. Combining several errands into a single trip can reduce the overall fuel consumption.

Use the Porsche’s driving mode selector to your advantage. While the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes enhance performance, they also prioritize power delivery over fuel efficiency. Selecting the “Normal” or “Eco” mode can help to optimize fuel consumption by adjusting throttle response and transmission shift points.