FIRST DRIVE We get to grips with third generation of distinctive luxury car
Jordan Katsianis Jordan_Katsianis@autovia.co.uk@JordanKatsianis
THE Panamera has a tough job operating as a flagship for Porsche. This high-spec executive car doesn’t just have to compete with traditional luxury rivals when it comes to comfort and refinement, it must also come up with the goods dynamically – as you’d reasonably expect any Porsche model to do. Add to this a need to jostle with the latest top-end EVs, and it’s clear the stakes are high for this new third-generation version.
In due course, more variants will be introduced, including a total of four plug-in hybrids. But to start with, we’re trying the Panamera 4 (a rear-drive car, simply called Panamera, is also available), fitted with a 348bhp twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine.
From the driver’s seat, the initial impression is one of impressive quality and mass. The subtly redesigned dashboard is even more minimal than before, with most controls now relegated to the touchscreen. Key climate functions are still on hand, however, but those with an aversion to glossy black plastic will struggle with the very scratchable centre console.
There’s plenty of space inside for four, although two six-foot adults might find themselves a bit cramped sitting behind one another. The boot is large and versatile, plus subtly reshaped to fit two sets of golf clubs.
The V6 engine is a co-developed unit, and shared with a few Audi RS models, but here you’ll find it in a more relaxed state of tune. This is an inherently sweet engine, with good low-down response and barely any lag, thanks to relatively low boost pressures from its turbos.
It sounds good too, changing its tone depending on the driver mode. The motor is then linked to an eight-speed PDK transmission, which does a brilliant job of mooching around at low speeds.
Porsche quotes a decent 0-62mph time of exactly five seconds, yet the performance doesn’t feel quite so impressive. Despite a fair 1,925kg kerbweight and relatively strong 500Nm of torque, the engine has to be worked hard to maintain good progress.
Our car was fitted with the most basic suspension option, although that’s still a very sophisticated dual-chamber air system with dual-valve dampers. As such, the Porsche handles with impressive precision, the body remaining flat under hard cornering, with a surprising amount of feedback coming through the steering.
There’s phenomenal front-end grip, t
