Finally we are able to post Rennteam’s first short Panamera test review, we have to apologize but for various reasons it wasn’t possible earlier.
Panamera 4S – short test drive
The chassis feels pretty comfortable but at the same time precise and sporty, sidegrip feels good and the steering feel is very direct.
The behaviour in curves is initially neutral, then it changes into a slight understeer, the front part feels pretty light. From a subjective point of view, the Panamera 4S feels sportier and faster in curves than for example a BMW 750iL with active suspension system, the 4WD system allows a very early acceleration out of curves.
The excessive weight however doesn’t feel right when it comes to passing other cars on the Autobahn, the 400 HP seem not to be enough for such a heavy car, it doesn’t feel as fast as expected.
Strong braking before curves again reminds the driver of the excessive weight, the Panamera 4S pushes a little bit over the front axle.
The PSM setup is very safety oriented, car wasn’t equipped with the Sport Chrono package though.
The overall build quality of the testcar was excellent, very surprising for an early car. The interior quality is also excellent and provides a very classy look, a almost perfect match for such a car.
Unfortunately the Burmester loudspeaker shows up in the front windshield, there is a certain mirror effect which can be unpleasant depending on the interior colour and the colour of the speaker housing.
Driving noise is very quiet, you barely can hear anything, very comfort oriented. Bare in mind that the tested car was not equipped with the optional sport exhaust system.
The buttons and everything else in the interior seems to be very ergonomical and well organized, the driver gets used to it very fast without any major problem.
The additional coloured navigation map in the speedo cluster is also a very nice feature.
Short conclusion: the Panamera 4S is an excellent limousine for travel, probably the sportiest limousine on the market but not quite close to a sportscar like the 911 for example. The car feels heavy, especially when you fully use the potential of the engine.
Sporty drivers should look out for the slightly lighter Panamera S or better, the Panamera Turbo.
We will post an extensive review of the Panamera Turbo over the next two days, including pictures of the Turbo.
This short Panamera 4S review was only an appetizer, enjoy the photos.
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RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor 997 Turbo, Cayenne Turbo S, BMW M3 Cab DKG, Mini Cooper S JCW
Re: Rennteam's First Panamera Test Drive
