21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but it’s a figure that 2017 Porsche Panamera Turbo owners likely accept as a cost of doing business. This isn’t a car purchased for hypermiling. It’s a statement, a four-door rocket that provides stunning performance alongside reasonable practicality. The Turbo trim, with its snarling 4.0L V8, caters to a specific clientele: People who demand both luxury and neck-snapping acceleration and are willing to pay a premium at the pump for the experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates place the Panamera Turbo at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst under stop-and-go conditions, which is made worse by the car’s weight and the readily available power that tempts drivers to exploit it. The highway number, however, is more respectable. This is thanks to the eight-speed automatic transmission (AM-S8), which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs when under light load. Achieving that highway figure requires restraint, however; the lure of effortless overtaking can quickly diminish fuel savings. Buyers should consider that this highway MPG is optimistic and very dependent on driving style.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Porsche Panamera Turbo will be $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. The high annual fuel cost is a direct result of the car’s relatively low MPG and the requirement for premium fuel. Panamera Turbo owners, however, are generally not overly concerned with such costs. They prioritize the performance and prestige that the vehicle offers and accept the associated expenses as part of the ownership experience. They also are not likely to be driving the average mileage annually; many Panameras serve as occasional weekend or “fun” cars for their owners.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy for the 2017 Panamera Turbo can vary significantly. Driving style, traffic conditions, and even terrain all play a role. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel consumption.

Conversely, careful driving with anticipatory habits and consistent speeds can help drivers approach, and potentially even exceed, the EPA estimates. Expect a range: those with a lead foot might see figures closer to 15 MPG in mixed driving, while more conservative drivers could achieve an average closer to 22 MPG. This variance is considerable, but consistent with a high-performance vehicle.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2017 Panamera Turbo places it squarely where you’d expect among its competitors. The BMW M5 (F10 generation), for example, with its 4.4L twin-turbo V8, achieves an EPA-estimated 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S, another direct rival, posts figures around 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. These differences are minor; buyers in this segment are primarily concerned with performance and less sensitive to small variations in fuel costs.

For those potentially cross-shopping within the Porsche family, remember to view PANAMERA MPG across all years if considering another model year, or all Porsche fuel economy data if thinking about a different Porsche vehicle. This comparison matters because while these sedans offer similar performance and luxury, some buyers may prioritize slightly better efficiency if it doesn’t significantly compromise driving dynamics. The Porsche also needs premium fuel, adding to the operating cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Panamera’s various driving modes. Selecting “Normal” or “Eco” mode will remap the throttle response making it less sensitive, dampen the engine’s power output, and prompt earlier upshifts, all contributing to improved fuel economy. Sport and Sport Plus modes, while enhancing performance, will severely reduce fuel efficiency.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended settings, found on the doorjamb placard.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo in the trunk adds weight to the vehicle, decreasing fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential, especially heavy objects.

Anticipate traffic flow. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking by looking ahead and anticipating changes in traffic speed. Smooth and steady driving reduces fuel consumption and minimizes wear and tear on your brakes.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Panamera Turbo restarts quickly and effortlessly, and modern engine technology can handle frequent restarts without issue.