Porsche has revealed six new models within their all-new second-generation range of Panamera four-seater sports saloon, following the debut of the top-spec Turbo and midrange 4S earlier this year.
The announcement covered the long-awaited kick-off models, the rear-wheel drive Panamera and four-wheel drive Panamera 4. In addition to those, long wheelbase versions of the existing cars also make their debut, receiving a 150mm more length between the axles, extending overall length to 5200mm.
The entry-level Panamera and Panamera 4 share the same new-generation 3.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged V6 petrol as in the more powerful and normal wheelbase Panamera, supplanting the 3.6-litre naturally aspirated V6 that powered the lower echelons of first-generation Panamera. The new powerplant also sees action in other offerings under the Volkswagen Group, such as the latest Audi S4 and S5.
In the elongated Panamera 4S, however, a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 with 323kW engine provides thrust and the Panamera Turbo Executive shares the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with the non-Executive version, outputting 404kW.
Porsche has also announced a long-wheel base version of their Panamera E-Hybrid, naturally called the Executive. In terms of powertrain, again, there has been no change to accommodate the added length. As such, the 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine works in tandem with an electric motor mounted in close proximity to the 8-speed automatic transmission to provide a total system output of 340kW.
The lengthened Panamera Executive models, in addition to the obvious size difference, do come more lavishly equipped than their standard wheelbase counterparts. For example, adaptive air suspension (with the excellent Porsche Active Suspension Management system) and a panoramic glass roof comes as standard. So too are heated and electronically adjustable seats for all four occupants.
The higher-end of the Executive line of Panameras, the 4S and Turbo, also receive rear-wheel steering - which makes the car more agile at low speeds and more stable at high speeds - as well as soft-close doors. The Turbo Executive also includes ambient interior lighting, dynamic headlights, and four-zone climate control.
The fancy new rear centre console, though, remains an option for all Panamera Executives, and can also be specified with smartphone integration and a fold-out tray table as well. Should that be optioned, two rear-facing 10-inch monitors will be fitted to front seats’ backrest.
We’ll have more on the range of Panamera Executive saloons, with a particularly close eye paid to their Aussie launch window and prices.
For more on Porsche vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
