Porsche has taken the wraps off the latest iteration of its iconic Panamera, marking the third generation of its sporty luxury sedan. We recently attended the unveiling of the new model in Dubai, and here's what we know.
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Revamped design and interior
The Panamera's exterior is a marked improvement, as was the second generation compared to the first. There are more elements of the all-electric Taycan, slimmer LED headlights reminiscent of the updated Cayenne, a rear lightbar as seen in other models as well as the flared fenders that extend above the bonnet as seen on the 911, creating a cleaner, more sporty design than its predecessors.
The interior is another welcome update, introducing the same clean, simplistic design centred around the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which measures 12.6 inches for the digitised instrument cluster and 10.9 inches for the centre screen, while another 10.9-inch screen can be optioned for passengers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, while a start/stop button is positioned on the dashboard as seen on the updated Cayenne has also been fitted to the newcomer. The brand also mentioned that the raft of semi-autonomous driver-aids available for the Panamera have been updated for the new model.
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V6 options
There will be three Panamera models available when the model is launched locally during the first quarter of 2024, with a standard Panamera and a Panamera 4 being powered by a 2.9-litre turbocharged V6 that produces 259kW and 500Nm of torque, which is sent to either the rear or all four wheels, depending on the model, via an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The Panamera will get from 0-100km/h in a claimed 5.0 seconds, while the Panamera 4 will do the same sprint in 4.7 seconds. The flagship, at launch, is the Turbo E-Hybrid, which we'll elaborate on below.
Flagship Turbo
The Panamera's third-generation release introduces more potent E-Hybrid powertrains, with three planned and one available at launch, namely the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid. The new flagship model boasts fuel consumption figures ranging from 1.2 to 1.7 L/100 km (WLTP) and an all-electric range reaching 91 km. In addition to the claimed efficiency, the model boasts impressive performance, with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 combined with an electric motor (140kW) for combined outputs of 500kW and 930Nm of torque, allowing for a claimed 0-100 km/h sprint time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h.
Also available on the E-Hybrid models is an impressive dual-chamber air suspension system paired with Porsche Active Suspension Management, called Porsche Active Ride and claimed to provide impressive comfort and handling performance. As the current performance flagship, the Turbo E-Hybrid introduces exclusive elements, including a distinctive rear apron, chrome-plated tailpipes, and optional centre-lock wheels, a first for a four-door Porsche! There's also a Turbo-exclusive colour, Turbonite, which adorns the Porsche crest, looking fantastic!
Sport Turismo is gone, long-wheelbase remains
Pricing
Panamera - R2 216 000
Panamera 4 - R2 292 000
Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid - R4 127 000
The models will be available locally in the first quarter of 2024 and come with a 5-year/100 000km Driveplan.
