21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel-sipping contests, but for the 2024 Porsche Panamera 4 with its 2.9L V6, it’s an acceptable trade-off for the performance and luxury. This isn’t a car bought by someone hyper-focused on maximizing efficiency; it’s for the driver who wants a thrilling grand touring experience with a dose of practicality and all-weather security from its all-wheel-drive system.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Panamera 4 break down to 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and lower speeds where the engine operates less efficiently. However, even with start/stop active, the 2.9L V6 still needs to work to move this relatively heavy sedan through urban traffic. On the open road, the 25 MPG highway rating shows where the Panamera 4 can stretch its legs. Maintaining a steady speed allows the engine to operate closer to its peak efficiency, helped by the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission (AM-S8) that selects the optimal gear for fuel conservation at cruising speeds. The key to hitting that 25 MPG is resisting the urge to constantly tap into the V6’s ample power reserves.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche Panamera 4 will be $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also factors in the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Using premium fuel, as required by Porsche, will further impact the annual expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a useful standard for comparison, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Aggressive driving habits, frequent hard acceleration, and spending significant time in Sport or Sport Plus modes will all negatively affect fuel consumption. Conversely, adopting a smoother driving style, anticipating traffic flow, and using cruise control on the highway will help you get closer to, or even exceed, the EPA estimates. Owners reporting their fuel economy on sites like Fuelly suggest that the EPA numbers are attainable with conscious effort.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the Panamera 4’s fuel economy lands somewhere in the middle of the pack. The BMW M550i xDrive, with its more powerful V8, gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined, 17 city, and 25 highway, nearly identical highway, but a little behind in the city. The Mercedes-AMG E53 Sedan manages a slightly better 23 MPG combined, 20 city, and 28 highway, offering a small but significant boost in efficiency, partly due to its mild-hybrid system. On the other hand, the Audi S7, equipped with a similar twin-turbo V6, achieves 22 MPG combined, 19 city, and 27 highway, again demonstrating closer numbers. These MPG variations matter to buyers at this level, where choosing the “right” performance sedan involves balancing power, luxury, and running costs. See all Porsche fuel economy data for a clearer picture of the range. Compare PANAMERA MPG across all years to see how this model has evolved.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Panamera’s drive mode selector. The “Normal” or “Comfort” mode is designed to prioritize fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle response, gear selection, and other vehicle settings. Resist the urge to leave it permanently in “Sport” or “Sport Plus,” as these modes significantly increase fuel consumption.

Ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations, and adjust as needed.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the overall mass that the engine needs to propel, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items that you do not need, especially heavy objects, to improve gas mileage.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as hard acceleration and braking. These actions consume significantly more fuel than smooth, gradual inputs. Anticipate traffic flow, maintain a consistent speed, and avoid unnecessary lane changes to conserve fuel. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a steady speed and optimize fuel efficiency.

Service your Panamera according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure that the engine is running efficiently. A poorly maintained engine will consume more fuel and reduce performance.