21 MPG combined. Let’s be honest, nobody is buying a 2016 Porsche Panamera 4S for its fuel efficiency. This isn’t about hypermiling or saving the planet. This is about a specific type of buyer: an affluent enthusiast who wants a practical, luxurious, and supremely capable four-door that can still deliver a thrilling driving experience. The fuel economy is simply a cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers break down to 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the Panamera’s weight and the demands placed on its turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine when navigating stop-and-go traffic. Expect the engine’s start/stop system to activate often in urban areas. The highway figure is more palatable, although still not class-leading. This is where the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission shines, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for cruising efficiency, although frequent bursts of acceleration will rapidly diminish that 26 MPG figure. Porsche engineers are masters of compromise, and the 2016 Panamera 4S reflects that, blending a high-performance drivetrain with some level of fuel consciousness.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Porsche Panamera 4S at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which is what the car requires. Keep in mind that fluctuations in fuel prices and individual driving habits can significantly impact this number. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and cold weather can all increase fuel consumption and, therefore, the annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG will vary. If most of your driving consists of short trips, spirited acceleration, and stop-and-go traffic, expect to see numbers closer to the city estimate of 18 MPG, or even lower. Conversely, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds might yield figures closer to or even slightly exceeding 26 MPG. However, the allure of the Panamera’s potent engine and the temptation to exploit its power are often too strong to resist, which inevitably impacts fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2016 Panamera 4S isn’t competing against economy cars. Its rivals are other high-performance luxury sedans. Consider the BMW 650i Gran Coupe from the same year, which, with its 4.4L V8 is rated at 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. A Mercedes-Benz CLS550 with its 4.7L V8 clocks in at roughly the same numbers. Even though these competitors offer similar performance, they often carry a slightly lower MPG figure. You can find PANAMERA MPG across all years to better understand its efficiency over time. The Audi A7 3.0T, with its supercharged V6, offers slightly better fuel economy at an EPA-rated 20 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, but it trades some performance for that improved efficiency. The Panamera buyer prioritizes driving dynamics and badge prestige; fuel economy is lower on the list, but the 4S engine offers the best efficiency relative to its performance when comparing all Porsche fuel economy data. The slight disadvantage in MPG is often a sacrifice they are willing to make.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Remember that the 2016 Panamera 4S thrives on premium fuel. Using lower-octane gasoline can reduce performance and fuel economy, and may even damage the engine over time. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure optimal performance.

Use the Panamera’s driving modes. The “Normal” mode provides a good balance of performance and efficiency for everyday driving. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes should be used only when you intend to indulge in more spirited driving, as these modes emphasize performance rather than less gas.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Today’s engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes more fuel than restarting.