First released in 2009, the Panamera was Porsche’s problem child. Porsche, with its 85 year-old lineage and racing origins, has come to be known for its focus on optimum performance above everything else. If that meant shoving the engine behind the rear differential, and using a body reminiscent of a squashed VW Beetle, then that’s what they did. With the legendary 911, and the numerous variants produced over the years, Porsche imbued this focus on the ultimate driving experience again and again. It was no surprise, then, that their decision to make a sedan was met with surprise from 911 loyalists and sports car fanatics. Porsche received a lot of flak for how the car looked, that it had two extra doors, and that Porsche was pandering to a changing market. While the design took some time to grow onto people, no one denied that the Panamera was one hell of a performer.
In the 2017 model year revamp, you see Porsche’s characteristic meticulousness and pledge to perform everywhere. The 4S, which will be the entry level model, will be priced at $99,990 (not available in India yet). The 4S comes to life with a modest 2.9 Litre V6 that’s hooked on to two turbochargers, producing 440 horsepower and 405 ft-lbs of torque, with the rev needle ranging from 2000 to 4500 rpm. An eight-speed version of Porsche’s brilliant flappy paddle Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission, also found in the Cayman and the 911 Carrera, is installed in the Panamera as well. Many consider the PDK one of the best gearboxes made. The firepower and speedy transmission propels the 4123 lb (1870 kg) Panamera from 0 to 100kmph in 4.0-4.2 seconds; we’re talking as fast as an Aston Martin Vanquish, and nearly as quick as the Audi R8 (a major seller in the Indian markets), which is not shabby at all.
But it doesn’t end here. Porsche’s top-spec Panamera, the Turbo, has also been revamped. With a 4.0 Litre, twin-turbocharged V8, the Turbo produces a mind-numbing 550 horsepower and 567 ft-lbs of torque, on the same flat curve between 2000 and 4500rpm. This engine, mated with an eight-speed PDK transmission and a revised, smarter suspension, results in better grip, and phenomenal acceleration. The 4400 lb (1995 kg) Turbo S goes from 0-100 in 3.4 seconds. That’s as quick as the 2015 Lamborghini Huracan, not to mention the added delight of your children shrieking in the backseat.
The Turbo, which maxes at 180 mph, also broke the Nurburgring (an infamously challenging race track in Germany, the litmus test for supercars) record for a four-door sedan, clocking in at 7 minutes and 38 seconds. The timing puts it well within the range of cars like the Ferrari 458 Italia and the Lexus LFA. The Turbo is priced at $146,000 (Approx 99 lakhs). The Sports Chrono package and launch control can be added to any version for extra oomph.
The interiors are all new as well. There’s a 12.3 in screen on the center console, with 7 inch displays on either side. The airplane cockpit styled 2009 console, laden with physical buttons, knobs and switches, has been replaced by the “Porsche Advanced Cockpit”: a smooth, black panel that has various capacitive touch switches with only a few roller wheels and an odd knob or two. The car also comes with infrared night vision and adaptive cruise control. A biturbo Diesel version is also in the works, although the specs on that aren’t out yet. A hybrid version for the US might be a possibility as well.
The 2009 model, no slouch, was never doubted on the performance front. This upgrade will further cement the Panamera as one of the fastest and best handling high-end sedans in the market. The looks, which have always been a point of contention, have changed only incrementally. The front gets Porsche’s four-point headlights, and the rear-end has been remodelled to mimic the 911. The new model is lower and longer than the 2009 edition, giving it a coupé-like appearance. All in all, Porsche has clearly analyzed the perception of their 2009 model and produced a luxurious sedan, with the complete package.
