19 MPG combined. That’s the headline when discussing the fuel economy of the 2022 Porsche Panamera 4S Sport Turismo (ST) with the 2.9L V6. Let’s be honest: no one buys this car for its Prius-rivaling efficiency. This is a Porsche, and specifically a Panamera 4S ST, a supremely capable, aggressively styled, and luxurious performance wagon. Fuel economy is a consideration, sure, but it’s buried far down the list below factors like horsepower, handling, and exclusivity.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates peg the Panamera 4S ST at 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of driving a powerful, all-wheel-drive vehicle in stop-and-go traffic versus sustained cruising speeds. The city number, in particular, will fluctuate wildly based on driving style. A heavy foot will quickly send that number plummeting. Conversely, employing a lighter touch and anticipating traffic flow can yield slight improvements. On the open road, the Panamera’s aerodynamics and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission (AM-S8) work together to deliver that 23 MPG figure, provided you resist the urge to exploit the engine’s ample power. The 2.9L twin-turbo V6 feels very relaxed on the highway. The car is capable of covering great distances without tiring the driver.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2022 Porsche Panamera 4S ST. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of fuel you use. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, so that 3,050 dollar figure is based on the higher cost of premium.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Panamera 4S ST owners report figures ranging from slightly below to slightly above the EPA estimates, depending on their driving style and typical routes. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and extended idling can all negatively impact fuel economy. Those who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic conditions, and spend more time on the highway are more likely to achieve the EPA’s stated figures or even surpass them. Many owners who are concerned with fuel consumption have reported staying in “Normal” drive mode and using the adaptive cruise control system as much as possible when on the highway.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the Panamera 4S ST’s fuel economy is competitive within its niche of high-performance wagons. The Audi RS6 Avant, with its more powerful V8, achieves around 15 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon offers similar performance, also landing in the low-to-mid teens for combined MPG. A more direct competitor might be the BMW M5 Competition, which achieves around 17 MPG combined. While the Panamera 4S ST is slightly better than these alternatives, the differences are not substantial enough to be a major deciding factor for most buyers in this segment. Porsche prioritizes performance, handling, and driver engagement over ultimate fuel efficiency, and those priorities are reflected in these comparisons. You can view PANAMERA MPG across all years to compare to older models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Normal” driving mode as much as possible. The Panamera 4S ST offers multiple driving modes that prioritize performance. While these modes deliver exhilarating acceleration and sharper handling, they also consume more fuel. Sticking to “Normal” mode, especially in city driving, will noticeably improve your fuel economy.

Practice smooth acceleration and braking. Abrupt acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow, maintain a consistent speed, and brake gently to conserve fuel. This also improves passenger comfort.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. This is especially important for a performance vehicle like the Panamera 4S ST, where precise handling is crucial.

Minimize idling. Avoid idling for extended periods of time, especially when the engine is cold. Turn off the engine if you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so idling is generally unnecessary.

Lighten the load. Extra weight reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, such as golf clubs, extra luggage, or unused equipment. Every pound counts when it comes to efficiency, especially in a performance-oriented vehicle. Be sure to check all Porsche fuel economy data when making your purchasing decision.