rulesdontapply:
A few articles of first rides with journalists riding along as passengers came out today. A few key common points:
- Codename G2
- Debut at the Paris Motor Show
- Five models confirmed, including a petrol hybrid and a diesel hybrid
- Three models specifically mentioned are a 4S Diesel with 422 horsepower out of a V8 engine, a 440-horsepower 3.0L V6 for the petrol 4S and Porsche's new 4.0L V8 for the Turbo/Turbo S with 550 horsepower for the Turbo [600 rumored for Turbo S]
- Exterior styling tremendously improved
- Interior styling eliminates buttons with much, much more technology than before
- Seats are lower, doors open wider and wheelbase is longer
- Analogue tach with two seven-inch screens on either side [left for vehicle-related info, right for connectivity and new options like night vision]
- 12-inch touchscreen in center console
- New Porsche-branded technology called InnoDrive with the following features: "...monitors traffic in a 360-degree radius, recognizes pedestrians, masterminds active cruise control, will brake autonomously as needed, knows via satellite the difference between long corners and sharp turns, and will make the gearbox slip into coast-mode whenever appropriate. By looking far ahead through cameras and sensors, InnoDrive can not only accelerate and decelerate the car in accordance to other road users but also initiate up- and downshifts. Its main claim to fame is the ability to drive semi-autonomously. Up to 7 mph, there is no need at all for the driver to interfere. Up to 37 mph, the driver has a leisurely 45 seconds to respond. At higher speed, the driver must grab the wheel within 15 seconds."
All in all, very exciting stuff and it's clear that the new Panamera is going to dramatically up Porsche's game with regards to design and technology. Don't know how this V6 S thing is going to work itself out, however...
rulesdontapply
Not really the stuff I was hoping to hear. Instead of impressive engine, chassis and gearbox innovation - the substance of any automobile, they are focusing on the autonomous driving fad just to satisfy their marketing departments.
With 550hp the Turbo will be badly spanked by every other upcoming super-sedan - from the E63 with 612hp to the next 600+ hp M5.
I personally wouldn't want to be seen in a V6 Panamera. It screams "I want to be seen in a Porsche but I can't afford the good one". Because we all know that the Panamera is neither the most comfortable nor the most practical sedan.Once you go bellow 500hp this car is pointless.
It's getting harder and harder to find honest and purposeful cars in the Porsche range. And when occasionally they make one it's usually hard to get it and you have to play games with your dealer...
- there are a lot of +2 tons car around everybody drives - so don't understand the fuzz about it when they clearly have improved the consumption dramatically - well done Porsche 
