17 MPG combined isn’t great, but it’s what you get with the 2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive. This isn’t your everyday commuter car; it’s a supremely luxurious, aggressively fast car suited for high speed driving, with a stretched wheelbase. The drivers interested in this Panamera prioritize performance and comfort over frequent fill-ups. It’s a four-door sports car, where fuel efficiency is a low priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Panamera Turbo S Executive at 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the demands on the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8. Driving in the city with frequent stops keeps the turbos active and the fuel flowing. The highway figure, while low for a modern car, shows the Panamera’s potential. A relaxed cruise will get you closer to 21 MPG, but the temptation to use its 620 horsepower and its ability to pass other cars will probably always win over fuel considerations. This car is engineered for sustained high-speed travel, and its fuel consumption reflects that.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the yearly fuel cost for the 2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive is $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Premium fuel is required, so changes in premium gasoline prices will affect your actual yearly cost. Buyers should think about this cost when considering buying a Panamera Turbo S Executive.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but actual fuel economy with the Panamera Turbo S Executive depends on how you drive. Careful driving can match or slightly exceed the highway estimate. Hard acceleration, spirited backroad driving, or consistent high-speed driving will reduce MPG. Owners who regularly drive aggressively should expect closer to 14-16 MPG in mixed conditions. The engine’s response and the car’s handling often outweigh concerns about fuel consumption. Check PANAMERA MPG across all years and trims for more data.

How it compares

The Panamera Turbo S Executive isn’t the only ultra-high-performance luxury sedan. The Mercedes-AMG S63 Sedan, with its own twin-turbo V8, offers similar performance but gets slightly better fuel economy, around 17 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The BMW M760i xDrive, with its V12 engine, gets numbers close to the Panamera, around 13 MPG city and 20 MPG highway. An Audi S8 gets an EPA rated 13 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. For Panamera buyers, these differences rarely change the decision.

The choice often comes down to brand preference, styling, and the unique driving experience, all listed with all Porsche fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

A smooth throttle input is important. The Panamera Turbo S Executive works best with a gentle foot, especially when accelerating. Avoid sudden bursts of power unless necessary, as these moments affect fuel consumption.

Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed to minimize accelerating and braking. Use the driving modes to your advantage. The “Normal” or “Eco” mode (if equipped) will optimize the engine and transmission for fuel efficiency. These modes usually result in earlier upshifts and a more subdued throttle response, encouraging relaxed driving. Don’t keep the car in “Sport” or “Sport Plus” unless you’re on a track.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and affect fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure and keep it at the levels in the owner’s manual or door jamb sticker. Proper inflation improves handling and tire life.

Reduce wind resistance. Remove any items from the roof or trunk that increase wind resistance. Excess weight strains the engine, increasing fuel consumption. A clean exterior can improve fuel efficiency over time.