The third-generation Porsche Panamera is now officially in Singapore. The fastback, which is one of the German manufacturer’s most successful models, is available in four variants: Panamera, Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, Panamera 4S E-Hybrid, and Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid.
For buyers seeking even more interior space, a Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Executive is also available.
Though its silhouette is like the previous model’s, there are several key differences. The bonnet features more lines, there’s an extra air intake in the shape of a slat above the front bumper, and Matrix LED head-lights are now standard. Overall, the car looks more angular and muscular, with the flanks seemingly more contoured than previously.
The rear end, however, looks nearly identical to the one in the outgoing Panamera. But if you look closely, you’ll notice the ‘single-piece’ taillight on the new model is wider and more uniform in shape compared to the older one. The lines of the rear windscreen are now also flush with the body, for a sleeker appearance.
Porsche says that the Panamera’s cockpit is “more intuitive than ever”. The fully digital Porsche Driver Experience (instrument display) in place of the semi-digital cluster found in the older car. For easier reach, the traditional gearshift lever is replaced by a selector located to the right of the steering wheel.
The front passenger can benefit from an optional display, too. Apart from controlling the infotainment system, pertinent car information can also be shown. And to avoid distracting the driver, Porsche says that this screen isn’t visible from the driver’s seat.
The new Panamera offers enhanced comfort levels for occupants. All models are equipped with adaptive two-valve air suspension, which adjusts itself based on road and driving conditions. Keener pilots can specify Porsche Active Suspension Management or PASM, which offers even higher levels of comfort and sportiness.
The model range starts with the Panamera, which is equipped with a turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 engine that produces 349bhp and 500Nm of torque. Compared to the preceding Panamera, these figures have increased by 23bhp and 50Nm, which in turn have quickened the century sprint from 5.6 seconds to 5.3 seconds.
Significantly, plug-in hybrid powertrains are now firmly part of the lineup, for apart from the Panamera, all other variants are hybrids. The latest version of the hybrid system is integrated into the transmission housing and into the oil-cooling circulation of the PDK (dual-clutch) gearbox.
More importantly, the batteries powering the electric motor now have a 25.9kWh capacity, or 45% greater than before. And with an on-board 11kW AC charger, charging the batteries takes two hours and 39 minutes.
By itself, the electric motor produces 188bhp and 450Nm of torque. When paired to the 2.9-litre V6 in the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, the combined outputs 464bhp and 650Nm of torque. It’s no surprise then, that the car has a zero to 100km/h time of 4.1 seconds.
Offering even higher levels of performance is the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid. Though equipped with the same petrol-electric powertrain as the 4 E-Hybrid variant, this model is tuned to produce 536bhp and 750Nm of torque, hastening the century dash to 3.7 seconds.
The top-of-the-line model in the family the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid. Befitting its status, the car features a revised, twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, along with the plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Both systems are capable of a combined 671bhp and 930Nm of torque, which can propel the fastback from rest to 100km/h in 3.1 seconds. With enough unrestricted road, the model can hit a top speed of 315km/h. If needed, the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid can cover 92km solely on electric power. In this mode, the car can still top out at 140km/h.
This story was first published on Sgcarmart.
