Thanks to a facelift that would make a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon proud, the ugliest Porsche has become one of the prettiest. And best of all, its beauty is more than just skin deep. Porsche have completely redeveloped the Panamera giving it a new chassis, improved suspension, and significantly more powerful powertrains.
At the reveal yesterday in Berlin, Porsche officials told the crowd of over 300 assembled journalists that the Panamera Turbo equipped with a 550 horsepower twin-turbocharged V8, lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 7:38. For a little context, that just as fast as a Porsche 997 GT3 RS.
What separates this new Panamera from the previous version is a front end that more closely resembles the iconic 911, a roofline that’s more coupe-like and a rear end that feels more integrated and composed. According to Michael Mauer, Head of Style Porsche AG, the design, “includes a new side window look that emphasizes the coupe-like side view even more.” In language that’s typical of most new car reveals he went on to say of the new Panamera, “Its strengths have been reinforced, its weaknesses have been eradicated and above all its distinctive character has been preserved.”
In addition to new engines – a 440 hp V8 in the S and the aforementioned 550 hp TT V8 in the Turbo – the Panamera also has a new 8-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission that improves overall performance and increases fuel efficiency by 16%. All-wheel drive is standard on both models, as well. Porsche also offers a three-chamber air suspension and a new electronic 4D Chassis Control chassis management system that let you choose between comfort and performance oriented ride and handling settings. Available rear-axle steering also improves cornering.
Inside the Panamera features new electronics, infotainment and connectivity options. The new Porsche Advanced Cockpit with its smartphone-like user interfaces and configurable LED screens offers intuitive functionality. The new Porsche Communication Management (PCM 4.1) offers an entirely new range of connectivity through its intelligent digital functions and online services. Porsche Connect, a new feature in Panamera, extends existing vehicle functions by adding digital services and apps, such as those used to control certain vehicle functions remotely by smartphone to make more efficient use of the driver’s time on the road.
No pricing or on sale date has been announced but we will have an update as soon as it’s available.