Volume 14 Issue 1 » 55
2017 Porsche Panamera
»
Like its predecessor, the Panamera reconciles two contrasting
characteristics in a way that only Porsche can execute, combining
the comfort of a luxury sedan and the performance of a sports
car. For 2017, this grand touring sedan has been redeveloped
and reengineered for even higher levels of luxury, comfort and
performance.
One of the previous model’s biggest criticisms was its polarizing
styling. The new car addresses that with its long dynamic
proportions, pronounced shoulders, and newly styled rump. There is
a clear link to Porsche’s design icon, the 911.
There is also an all-new interior, even more luxurious than before,
with black panel surfaces and interactive displays similar to
smartphones and tablets. The touch-sensitive panels significantly
help to cut down on button clutter, despite the new gadgets. The
infotainment system now has gorgeous new graphics, a massive
12.3” touchscreen, and even supports Apple CarPlay.
To elevate the Panamera to new levels, there are two new twin-turbo
engines. The Panamera 4S is equipped with a 440 hp 2.9L twin-
turbo V6, and the Panamera Turbo with a 550 hp 4.0L twin-turbo
V8.
Both versions come with all-wheel-drive and a new eight-speed
dual-clutch transmission (PDK). The base Panamera is rear-wheel-
drive only and powered by a 3.0L 330 hp V6.
Just a couple of decades ago, a four-door Porsche sedan would’ve
been unthinkable. But here we are in 2017, with not only two
Porsche SUVs, but also the highly anticipated second-generation
Porsche Panamera sport luxury sedan.