Porsche Panamera: Porsche Panamera
New pictures reveal Panamera S, all-wheel drive 4S and Turbo
After months of spy shots, disguised mules and teasers, the official Porsche Panamera saloon has finally appeared - with five doors as opposed to four. Styling is still very much coupe-inspired, with the car aping current Porsches in the way the Cayenne does, with possibly a little bit more success than the off-roader.
It is still a fairly striking addition to the 'four-door coupe' class, with its 911-alike shape and head- and taillights clearly from the Porsche mould. Unlike other cars in its class, it appears to be a five-door with a hatchback rear, adding to practicality.
Engines will be V6s and V8s, with power ranging between 300 and 500bhp. There'll be a turbo, as well as the option of rear- or four-wheel drive. AWD will come as standard on top spec Panameras but be an option across the rest of the range, alongside the seven-speed PDK gearbox, the double-clutch auto being on the extras list with Porsche's six-speed manual as standard.
There'll be a hybrid option too, more details of which will be revealed in spring 2009, when the Panamera will get its world debut - all clues pointing to a Geneva motor show unveil. Sales start next summer. It comes at a busy time for Porsche, with the updated Boxster and Cayman getting their reveal at this weeks LA Auto Show, a new 911 out testing and a diesel Cayenne being confirmed. Don't rule out the idea of a diesel Panamera, either.
For a more detailed insight into the Panamera, check out the January 2009 issue of evo, out on December 10.
