25 MPG combined is respectable for the 2016 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, but understand what that means. It’s not trying to be a Prius, focused on squeezing every last mile from a gallon. It’s a high-performance luxury sedan with plug-in hybrid technology. It appeals to buyers who want to use less gas and enjoy fast acceleration when they want it.

City and highway performance

The Panamera S E-Hybrid’s EPA ratings are 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The small difference shows the hybrid system is effective in both types of driving. In cities, the electric motor gives instant torque and allows gas-free driving for shorter distances, boosting its city MPG. The 3.0L supercharged V6 engine, with Porsche’s smooth 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, works well on the open road. These numbers show solid efficiency, especially compared to the regular gasoline-only Panamera models. You can browse PANAMERA MPG across all years to see how this hybrid compares to other Panameras.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices when tested. Regional fuel prices and your driving will change the actual cost, but the EPA’s number is useful for comparison. If you maximize your electric driving, it will cost you less.

Real-world expectations

Drivers who often plug in and use the available electric range will probably get better fuel economy than the EPA estimates. Drivers who mainly drive long distances or use the engine’s full power may get mileage closer to the lower end of the range. The “S” in the name means performance, and using that performance will lower economy. This car is bought for its performance, so high power use lowers MPG. Consider 25 MPG a ‘best case’ number if you drive responsibly.

How it compares

Compared to other plug-in hybrid sedans of its time, the 2016 Panamera S E-Hybrid is different. The BMW 530e, has similar combined fuel economy around 27 MPG, but a less powerful engine. The Mercedes-Benz S550e from the same year was more luxurious, but generally yielded a lower MPG. Compared to other high-performance sedans, the E-Hybrid’s fuel efficiency is more impressive. A similar gasoline model in the Panamera range, a Panamera S without hybrid, generally gets fuel economy in the low 20s. The E-Hybrid helps buyers considering the Panamera’s competition reduce gas use, while still delivering near-supercar acceleration.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the E-Charge mode while driving when it makes sense. On long downhill stretches or when approaching a red light, engage E-Charge to replenish the battery, extending all-electric range later.

Pre-conditioning the Panamera’s cabin while it’s plugged in allows you to heat or cool the interior without drawing power from the battery once you start driving. This helps in extreme temperatures and can change fuel economy.

Know the Panamera’s driving modes, E-Power, Hybrid, and E-Charge, and pick the right mode for your driving. E-Power mode uses electric driving, while Hybrid mode blends electric and gasoline power for best efficiency.

Check tire pressure often. Properly inflated tires lower rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the right tire pressure.

Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Smooth driving improves fuel efficiency, especially in Hybrid mode, as the system expects energy needs. See all Porsche fuel economy data to see how this compares to vehicles produced by Porsche.