21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but that’s expected when you’re driving a 2018 Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive. This isn’t a car for budget-conscious commuters. It’s a statement vehicle, a four-door grand tourer that prioritizes raw power and opulent comfort over saving money at the pump. The buyer demands both blistering performance and executive-level space, and understands that efficiency isn’t the top priority in an extraordinary driving experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Panamera Turbo Executive are 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 is constantly flexing its muscle, even if it’s just to move forward a few car lengths. The highway number is more reasonable and achievable if you drive carefully. The long gearing of the 8-speed automatic helps keep the engine running at lower RPMs at higher speeds, but any hard acceleration to pass slower traffic will quickly reduce that efficiency. This car begs to be driven, and driven hard, so expecting to consistently see 25 MPG in real-world highway situations is optimistic.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive is $2,750. This figure 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 assumes national average fuel prices. Remember that premium fuel is required, and actual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and how much you enjoy the car’s performance. A lead foot will send that $2,750 figure climbing.

Real-world expectations

Ignore the EPA numbers as soon as you leave the dealership. This car is a performance machine, and buyers know that. Expect to see somewhere in the high teens in mixed driving, and perhaps flirt with the low 20s on a long highway trip if you try. But most owners will focus on the rush of acceleration than on maximizing fuel economy. It’s a car you buy because you can afford it, and you appreciate the unique combination of luxury and performance it offers.

How it compares

The Panamera Turbo Executive isn’t alone in its segment, but its fuel economy is on par with its rivals. The Mercedes-AMG S63 Sedan has a similarly potent twin-turbo V8 that delivers comparable performance, but its fuel economy hovers around 17 MPG combined. The BMW M760i xDrive, with its V12, is even thirstier, struggling to achieve more than 15 MPG combined. Even tamer options, like the Audi S8, typically land in the high-teens combined. Looking at all Porsche fuel economy data, the Panamera Turbo Executive lands where you would expect given its combination of size, power, and features. If you are looking for better mileage within the Panamera model line, consider checking out PANAMERA MPG across all years to explore the hybrid options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Fuel economy might not be the main concern for a Panamera Turbo Executive owner, but there are ways to get more mileage out of each gallon of premium fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary hard acceleration and braking. Smooth, steady progress optimizes consumption and allows the engine to operate efficiently , even if that’s still not going to be Prius-like.

Use the car’s driving modes. The “Normal” mode balances performance and efficiency, softening throttle response and encouraging earlier upshifts. Reserving the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes for spirited driving will noticeably affect fuel consumption over the long run, as tempting as it is to unleash the car’s potential.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which can improve fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels. This is a simple way to ensure the car is operating efficiently.

Aggressive driving increases fuel consumption. It also creates heat, which can impact engine tolerances. When the engine management system detects this, it adjusts parameters to ensure the engine receives enough fuel, driving consumption even higher. Drive smoothly, and the car will respond.