In this issue.I had the opportunity to test drive Porsche's new Panamera.So, I would like to report on it, although it will be a short review.
The new Panamera has finally arrived in Japan. I drove the base grade Panamera, which has just arrived in Japan.

More sophisticated design with minor changes

This new Panamera is,Positioned as a big minor change rather than a full model changeThe Panamera Turbo I drove before was an early model of the 971, followed by a mid-term model, and now a late model. The Panamera Turbo I drove before was an early model of the 971, then there was a mid-term model, and now this is a late model.

Although the exterior design has changed significantly, the differences are so minor that only owners may notice them. In particular, the shape of the front bumper has changed, and the grille appears to have been enlarged and pushed out more. I personally did not get a good impression of this in the pictures.

However, when you see the actual car in front of you, it looks much sleeker and more compact than you had imagined.The overall height feels lower and the body line is much lower. The rear taillight area has also been tweaked and thickened. Overall, the buttocks look more settled and stylish.

Once again, the exteriors areMuch cooler than it looks in the pictures.The photographic image may look a bit wild, but the actual car looks very sharp and compact. Please be assured of that.

V6 engine and quiet ride

Test Rides are available atBasic Panamera V6 model.It is powered by a 2.9-liter V6 turbo engine that produces 353 horsepower. Torque is an astonishing 500 Nm, and it is delivered over a wide rpm range from 1900 to 4800 rpm.

The catalog specs are for a top speed of 272 km/h and 0-100 km acceleration in 5.1 seconds for vehicles equipped with the Sport Chrono Package.It is definitely faster. The price is 1,460,000 yen. The price is a little higher than the previous model, but this is understandable considering the power and improved specs.

Driving around town, the first thing that surprises me is how quiet it is. The Panamera has become quieter with each model change, and this V6 model is no different.It is so quiet that it is hard to notice even the idling stop, which is not too much to say that there is no Porsche-like quality to it.However, on the other hand, if you do not care about the engine noise, this is probably a better choice.
The cabin's sound insulation is also very high, allowing easy communication with passengers. Long-distance driving is sure to be stress-free. The qualities of the sedan are impeccable.

The body color of this particular model is the elegant Carrara White Metallic. The feet are fitted with exclusive 20-inch Panamera Design wheels.The design is reminiscent of the classic 911 wheels, which I personally like.

If I may venture a regret, it is that Hankook tires were installed instead of Michelin or Pirelli. Although they passed Porsche's approval test and should be fine in terms of performance, they do not look good. The shoulders are too round and the sidewall design looks like a family car tire, which is a pity. Even though there is no performance problem, this is an area where we would like to be particular.

Full of advanced equipment, easy-to-use interface for everyone

The interior isIt has become completely high-tech, and the sophistication of the infotainment system has been greatly improved.The instrument panel is also fully digital and highly visible. The display of the driver assistance system is easy to understand, and the status of the adaptive cruise control setting, for example, is clearly visible at a glance.

The design of the center console has also changed. A space in the lid is now provided for wireless charging with a smartphone.Convenient storage is incorporated throughout for ease of use.

Equipped with wireless charging

The thoughtful layout of the air conditioner controls also impresses. The intuitive operation makes it stress-free, even if you are not accustomed to it.

Notable,The shift lever has disappeared from the center console.Instead, a shift selector was provided by the steering wheel. This is the same concept as the Porsche Taikan. Once the parking button is pressed and the car is in drive range, all that is left is to operate the accelerator pedal. Shifting has become surprisingly simple.

Moves to the side of the steering wheel as with the Taikan. Very easy to operate.

Panamera finally has a start button.

This unit has a seat with massage function

Smooth and powerful acceleration like an EV, the quintessence of a sports sedan

The Panamera's suspension is simply amazing this time around. With the further evolved air suspensionIt absorbs bumpy road protrusions well, but there is no squishy sensation.It is an exquisite setting that combines quality and a tight ride. With this, few people will be concerned about ride quality.

Acceleration is not as smooth as that of the Taikan, but the ability to reach 100 km/h in 5.1 sec. is a real feat. It also has strong extension from mid-range speeds, making it a reliable ally when merging onto highways.It is hard to believe that this is a base model.

Fully digitalized meters

Adaptive Cruise Control has further evolved. It does not jerk at all in traffic jams and follows the vehicle very smoothly.

It behaves exactly like a Porsche in the corners. The low center of gravity and low roll make it extremely neutral.

The car is quite sporty in normal mode, but when the mode is switched to Sport, the suspension becomes stiffer and sharper.It will enjoy agile handling similar to a 911. I would rather have this base grade Panamera in Sport mode or higher to bring out more of its charm.

PDK has also evolved dramatically. This is worth mentioning. It is truly lightning fast. When you tap the paddles on the steering wheel, the response is so crisp and clear that you would think it was a 911.I am even impressed by the transmission, which is beyond the realm of a sedan.

Overall, the new Panamera has the qualities you want in a sedan.

The basic grade of the new Panamera is definitely the one to go for if you are looking for a sporty sedan.

It has similar athletic performance to the 911, but also has the practicality of a sedan.If you want to enjoy a nimble driving experience, this V6 model is probably the best choice.

On the other hand, if you want a higher quality, more luxurious ride, overwhelming acceleration, and quiet driving in EV mode, we recommend the hybrid model. And if you want to experience the powerful engine feel, you should choose a V8 turbo model.

The Panamera has a wide range of characters.I want you to examine the grade that is right for you.

The new Panamera has just arrived in Japan. The impression of this Panamera is quite different from the pictures and the actual car, so please visit your nearest Porsche Center to see the actual car and test drive it if you have a chance.
After all, this sedan is not a half-baked sports sedan.It has the performance of a sports car.You will surely be attracted by its charm.