Following the success of the Cayenne, Porsche launched the Panamera in 2009. Change of this sort—a Porsche sedan?— was met with some skepticism or hostility because of the brand’s strong identity rooted in the flagship 911’s pedigree. Over time, however, the Porsche Panamera has been embraced as the must-have family-friendly sports sedan in affluent communities across the country.
Like the Cayenne, performance ranges from acceptable to unbelievable.
The new year brought plenty of change: A new exterior, a 3-liter twin turbo V6, and the Executive series, made up of two extended wheel base models.
Panamera offers a range of trim levels defined by the engine lurking under the hood.
The base Panamera is equipped with a 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6. Even with the least powerful engine in the range, it can manage the zero-to-60 mph dash in as few as 5.7 seconds.
The Panamera 4 adds all-wheel drive to the equation. Despite the extra weight, acceleration to 60 mph drops by .2 seconds.
Twin-turbochargers push the 3-liter V6 to 420 horsepower. It takes only 4.9 seconds to reach 60 mph.
Adding all-wheel drive to S doesn't impede progress to 60 mph in as few as 4.3 seconds.
The Executive was developed for markets like China, where customers prefer chauffeur-driven transport. The stretched wheelbase provides limousine-like dimensions for rear seat passengers. The extra weight does diminish acceleration, somewhat—it might take as long as 4.8 seconds to reach 60 mph.
The GTS graduates to Porsche's 440-horsepower 4.8-liter V8. Sixty mph is now reached in a scant 4.2 seconds.
The Panamera Turbo engine is a formidable contender producing 520 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.9 seconds.
"Executive" is Porsche's terminology for long-wheelbase. Though slightly ungainly in looks, this stretched sedan is as fast many purpose-built sports cars.
The Turbo S ups the horsepower ante to 570. You'll reach 60 mph in a breathtaking 3.6 seconds.
The ultimate Panamera transports rear-seat passengers in comfort and nearly unbelievable speed.
Choose your Porsche Panamera >>
We think the base Panamera offers a fine blend of performance and value. But if you can afford it, by all means choose the Panamera that best suits your need for speed.
