When it first debuted in 2009, the Panamera was known as an ugly duckling in the Porsche lineup. However, its biggest upside was carrying the brand’s iconic driving dynamics while carrying four doors and more passengers comfortably.
Over time, the design has warmed over enthusiasts, with the second generation helping to fix its image. Yesterday, the Stuttgart giant unveiled the third generation of its performance sedan in Shanghai, including its expanded technology and electrification options.
The new Panamera still carries the same sports car-like design as its predecessors, now fittingly mimicking the new 911. The base rear- and four-wheel-drive models will come with a 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 348hp and 500Nm, an upgrade from the 971 generation.
Porsche plans to roll out four E-Hybrid models, with the Turbo E-Hybrid arriving first at launch. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a bumped-up electric motor has a combined output of 671hp and 930Nm. Aside from a 0-100km/h time of 3.2 seconds, the 25.9kWh battery has an estimated range of up to 93km in the city.
Following the car’s SUV sibling, the dual-chamber, two-valve air suspension setup comes standard on the performance sedan, together with Porsche Active Suspension Management.
The hybrid trim levels will exclusively receive the Porsche Active Ride treatment, a newer system with two-valve shock absorbers, an electrically operated hydraulic pump, and a single-chamber air suspension.
For its exterior quirks, the Panamera presents itself with HD matrix LED headlights, active air intake flaps on the front bumpers, and the iconic split-open active rear wing. Choices for wheel sizes range from 19 to 21 inches, including a center lock-inspired design for the Turbo E-Hybrid.
Inside, drivers will be greeted by a curved 12.6-inch digital instrument display and a 10.9-inch infotainment screen. An optional 10.9-inch screen is also available for the front passenger who wants to be entertained independently with either video playback, a navigation system, or vehicle information.
Audio systems will come in three choices: the 10-speaker in-house Sound Package Plus, the 14-speaker Bose system with subwoofer (standard on the Turbo E-Hybrid), and the independent 21-speaker Burmester system.
For those who seek more personality in their Panamera, the Sonderwunsch program from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur will allow you to customize the paint, the accents, and the upholstery for an additional fee.
Otherwise, the new Porsche Panamera will start at €107,800 (P6.54 million) for the base model, €111,900 (P6.79 million) for the Panamera 4, and €192,500 (P11.68 million) for the Turbo E-Hybrid. Production and sales will commence in Europe by March 2024, with other regions to follow.
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