18 MPG combined isn’t exactly efficient, but for the 2020 Porsche Panamera GTS Sport Turismo with its roaring 4.0L twin-turbo V8, it’s almost a secondary consideration. This isn’t a car bought for its frugal sipping habits; it’s a statement, a blend of supercar performance and everyday practicality wrapped in a sleek, shooting-brake design. The Panamera GTS ST buyer appreciates the finer things, demands exhilarating performance, and needs the flexibility of a hatchback for weekend getaways or hauling cargo like skis, golf clubs, or the family dog. Fuel costs are a factor but not the defining factor in their purchase decision.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Panamera GTS ST achieves 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst when dealing with stop-and-go traffic, stoplights, and the temptation to unleash that V8. The highway number, while still not stellar, is a more realistic portrayal of what’s achievable when cruising at a steady speed. The 8-speed automatic transmission (AM-S8) helps optimize fuel consumption on the open road, but this is a heavy car with a powerful engine designed for performance, not economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2020 Porsche Panamera GTS ST’s annual fuel cost at $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, where you live (fuel prices fluctuate by region), and how often you decide to explore the upper reaches of the tachometer. $3,200 provides a benchmark to compare against other vehicles and a number to factor into the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy often differs. Panamera GTS ST owners report numbers close to the EPA estimates, but consistent city driving or a lead foot can easily push the average down. Longer highway trips, driven with restraint, might yield slightly better results. The driving experience is a core tenet of owning this vehicle, and chasing MPG numbers relentlessly would detract from that enjoyment. If efficiency is a top priority, browsing PANAMERA MPG across all years of production might turn up a more suitable model.

How it compares

Compared to its direct rivals, the Panamera GTS ST’s fuel economy is in line with expectations for a performance-oriented vehicle. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon, with its similar output, also lands in the 15/22 MPG range. The Audi RS6 Avant, another competitor, delivers similar performance and fuel economy. For comparison, the more powerful Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid offers even greater performance and some electric range, and might show a combined rating around 21 MPG, but that rating is highly sensitive to charging frequency. Compare all Porsche fuel economy data before getting too involved. Buyers in this category prioritize performance and driving experience over maximizing every last mile per gallon.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use Porsche’s driving modes to your advantage. The “Normal” or “Eco” mode, if equipped, will remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. It’s tempting to keep the car in ‘Sport’ or ‘Sport Plus’ modes constantly, but these modes are designed for maximum performance and fuel economy suffers.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check the recommended tire pressure (usually found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb) regularly and ensure your tires are properly inflated.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, gradual inputs are key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Hard acceleration or brake input burns fuel unnecessarily.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your Panamera negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and rear seats to reduce the overall load on the vehicle.