The 2019 Porsche Panamera GTS Sport Turismo with the 4.0L V8 gets 18 MPG combined, which isn’t ideal. It’s not just a way to save gas; it’s a high-performance wagon with seating for four (or five) and a surprisingly useful cargo area. The Panamera GTS ST buyer prioritizes a unique combination of practicality, luxury, and driving excitement that few vehicles offer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates indicate some fuel consumption. The 15 MPG city rating shows the engine’s power and the car’s weight. Stop-and-go driving takes its toll, even with the eight-speed automatic trying to optimize fuel consumption. The 22 MPG highway is more respectable, achievable during longer cruises. However, accelerating quickly will drop that number. The all-wheel-drive system offers incredible grip but adds weight and drivetrain loss, further impacting fuel economy in the city and on the highway.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche Panamera GTS ST at $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes gasoline prices at the national average during EPA testing. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal engine performance and longevity, so the actual cost could be higher depending on local prices and driving habits. This figure will likely be a conservative estimate for owners in areas with higher gas prices or those who drive more aggressively.

Real-world expectations

Don’t focus on the EPA numbers too much. Real-world fuel economy for the Panamera GTS ST depends on driving style. Drive respectfully, and you might see numbers close to the EPA’s highway estimate on longer trips. But exploiting the V8’s power, even occasionally, will drop the combined MPG into the low teens. Many owners report averages of 14-17 MPG, and those numbers worsen when the car is frequently used for short trips or spirited canyon runs. Those buying a performance-oriented Porsche wagon are typically more concerned with performance than saving money at the pump. For a complete overview of PANAMERA MPG across all years, FuelEconomyHub.com offers valuable data analysis.

How it compares

The Panamera GTS ST’s fuel economy is predictably underwhelming compared to other vehicles in its price range. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon, a similar high-performance wagon, gets an EPA-estimated 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Audi RS6 Avant, a more recent high-performance wagon, is rated at 15 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, which closely mirrors the Panamera. A BMW M5 sedan, while not a wagon, offers similar performance and a slightly better 15 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. Buyers cross-shopping these vehicles acknowledge the fuel-economy penalty that comes with the performance. They might also consider a Cayenne which offers lower MPG, but more utility. To explore all Porsche fuel economy data, visit our Porsche make page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Panamera GTS ST isn’t designed for fuel economy, you can still employ a few strategies to get every mile out of each gallon. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The V8 engine rewards a smooth driving style with slightly improved efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy and handling. Check the pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the driver’s side doorjamb. This is important on a heavy vehicle like the Panamera, where a small pressure drop can significantly affect fuel consumption.

Use the car’s driving modes. The Panamera GTS ST offers driving modes, including a “Normal” or “Comfort” mode for everyday driving. Selecting this mode will soften the throttle response and adjust the transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. Even engaging cruise control on the highway helps maintain a constant speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures the engine runs optimally. A well-maintained engine is more efficient, which translates to improved fuel economy. Ignoring maintenance can reduce performance and increase fuel consumption.