Taking a step forward.
The Porsche Panamera has stirred up quite a bit of controversy from Porsche and automotive enthusiasts alike since it was first introduced. This controversy was followed by incredible sales numbers that grabbed a large portion of the high-end luxury sport sedan segment in just one year. The Panamera is here to stay and its new, second-generation looks to build towards the future with better efficiency and responsible power.
The second-generation Porsche Panamera has it all: power, efficiency, luxury, and performance. Plus, there’s even a luxury class first plug-in hybrid model that is grabbing all of the headlines. The new Panamera S E-Hybrid looks to set new standards for not just the Porsche lineup but the industry as a whole with its innovative technology mixed with that oh-so-special Porsche driving experience.
The new Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid takes the previous-generation Hybrid model to a new level by building upon its parallel full hybrid system utilizing a more powerful electric motor and advanced lithium-ion battery, coupled with the ability to charge it through the electrical grid. The new electric motor develops just about twice the amount of the previous-generation motor, coming in at 95 hp (70 kW) and sucks power from a new 9.4 kWh lithium-ion battery that has over five times more capacity of the previous-generation’s nickel metal hydride battery. The Panamera S Hybrid can be charged via a home electrical outlet in less than four hours using the Porsche Universal Charger (AC) and integrated on-board charger or in approximately 2.5 hours using an industrial outlet.
The Panamera S E-Hybrid’s 95 horsepower and 229 lb-ft. electric motor is mated to a 3.0-liter V-6 with 333 horsepower at 5500 to 6500 RPM and 325 lb-ft. of torque at 3000 to 5250 RPM for a total of 416 hp at 5500 RPM and 435 lb-ft. of torque at 1250 to 4000 RPM, maximum to the rear wheels and through an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic. This enables the hybrid sport sedan to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 167 mph. Efficiency is maximized with the ability to operate with a full-electric range of 36 km according to NEDC-based testing with a top speed of 84 mph. A “coasting” function where the V-6 shuts off at highway speeds helps to regain energy and save fuel even more. Customers will also benefit from a standard Porsche Car Connect smart phone app that provides a variety of information and functions that can be accessed without being near- or in the car.
With the focus shifting towards efficiency, Porsche has ditched the naturally-aspirated 4.8-liter V-8 in the Panamera S models and replaced it with a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine. The new bi-turbo V-6 is more powerful yet up to 18-percent more efficient than the V-8 it replaces, and is pegged at 420 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 383.5 lb-ft. of torque. This enables the S model range (S, 4S, 4S Executive) to accelerate to 60 mph in 4.6- to 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 177- or 178 mph. The seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission is used with the new V-6 and features an extended stop-start function while coasting to a stop for better economy as well as a coasting function that has the clutches in overrun.
The new second-generation Porsche Panamera model lineup features a refreshed design with a clean and rounded shape that’s even further accentuated by the new long-wheelbase Executive variants. The Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive and 4S Executive models feature a 15 cm longer wheelbase and special range of features that provide more space, comfort, and luxury for the two rear bucket seats.
The Panamera wears tight and smooth bodywork that emphasizes its elongated, sleek shape. Larger air intakes and horizontal lines accentuated by LED daytime running lights help create a clean but sporty fascia. Optional LED headlights lend the Panamera a modern and technology-driven appearance. Porsche designers took steps to create a dynamic and sleek side profile that greater sense of speed. This was enabled with the use of a new rear window that is more swept back and extended. The rear fascia is even wider and features curvy haunches that blend into the rear bumper and its wide spoiler.
The new Porsche Panamera models will be launched in July of 2013 base V-6 Panamera starting at $78,100, the twin-turbo Panamera S at $93,200 and the 4S Executive at $125,600. The range will top out with the Turbo Executive at $161,100, while US pricing for the S E-Hybrid will be announced at a later date. A new 300 horsepower Diesel will be launched in early 2014 and a new Panamera Turbo S and Turbo S Executive will arrive in 2014 as well.
Porsche Panamera S and S E-Hybrid Specifications
Panamera S
Engine:
Displacement: 3.0 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-6
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Maximum Horsepower: 420 at 6,000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 383.5 lb-ft.
Compression Ratio: 9.8 : 1
Performance:
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds (4.6 seconds w/Sport Chrono)
Top Speed: 178 mph
Panamera S E-Hybrid
Engine:
Displacement: 3.0 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-6
Aspiration: Supercharged
Maximum Horsepower: 333 hp at 5500 – 6500 RPM
Maximum Torque: 325 lb.-ft. at 3000 – 5250 RPM
Compression Ratio: 10.5 : 1
Maximum Horsepower (Electric Motor): 95 hp at 2200 – 2600 RPM
Maximum Torque: 229 lb.-ft. at Combined Horsepower: 416 hp at 5500 RPM, Max
Combined Torque: 435 lb.-ft. at 1250 – 4000 RPM, Max
Performance:
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 5.2 seconds
Top Speed: 167 mph
Porsche Panamera S and S E-Hybrid Gallery
[Source: Porsche]
What do you think of the new plug-in Panamera S E-Hybrid and new twin-turbo V-6 in the Panamera S? Leave a comment and let us know!
