Porsche introduces new powertrains for the ’21 Panamera with an eye to improved performance.
An updated 4.0L twin-turbo V-8 in the Panamera Turbo S makes 620 hp and 604 lb.-ft. (819 Nm) of torque, compared with its predecessor Panamera Turbo’s 550 hp and 567 lb.-ft. (769 Nm).
The upgraded engine features new fuel injectors, a reduced compression ratio and changes to the crankshaft, connecting rods, timing chain drive and torsional vibration dampers.
Panamera Turbo S sedan and Sport Turismo models equipped with the new engine and using Launch Control can reach 60 mph (97 km/h) in 2.9 seconds (3.0 seconds for the Panamera Turbo S Executive), 0.5 seconds quicker than the previous Panamera Turbo. All Panamera Turbo S models reach a top track speed of 196 mph (316 km/h).
The twin-turbo V-8 in the Panamera GTS sees a 20-hp increase to 473 hp and 457 lb.-ft. (620 Nm) of torque, with its throttle calibration tuned to more closely resemble the characteristics of a naturally aspirated engine.
Porsche also expands its hybrid offerings with a new plug-in model for the Panamera range: the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid. An electric motor paired with a 2.9L twin-turbo V-6 yields a system power of 552 hp and 553 lb.-ft. (750 Nm) of torque. The sedan can reach 60 mph using Launch Control in 3.5 seconds, has a top track speed of 185 mph (298 km/h) and offers performance similar to that of the previous 550-hp Panamera Turbo.
Standard Panamera models now feature the 2.9L twin-turbo V-6 rated at 325 hp, replacing the previous 3.0L single-turbo unit.
A number of styling updates distinguish the ’21 Panamera. All models now feature the SportDesign front fascia as standard, and a redesigned SportDesign package, either with or without carbon fiber, will be available as an upgrade.
A continuous light strip spread across the rear connects the two taillights, while the lower rear fascia sports new diffuser fins. A new 20-in. wheel design and two new 21-in. wheels are available.
The Panamera GTS features an updated front and rear SportDesign fascia in Satin Black, along with the GTS-specific Satin Black 20-in. Panamera Design wheels and tinted taillights, as well as black lettering and model designations. The Sport Exhaust System, standard on the GTS and available on the Panamera Turbo S, is designed to emphasize the rumble of the V-8.
Most powertrains continue to be offered in the sedan, Sport Turismo and Executive body styles, the latter providing added rear seat room thanks to its 5.9-in. (88-m) longer wheelbase. New colors include Cherry Red Metallic and Truffle Brown Metallic.
Inside (pictured above), the ’21 Panamera has been updated with a newly designed multifunction Sport steering wheel with shift paddles. The Panamera Turbo S comes standard with a new GT Sport steering wheel with shift paddles wrapped in leather and is optional on other Panamera models.
Panamera and Panamera 4S E-Hybrid models come standard with 8-way electrically adjustable comfort seats, while the Turbo S (pictured below) models are equipped with 14-way adjustable seats with memory. The Panamera GTS comes standard with 18-way adaptive sport seats. Both the 14-way comfort seats and 18-way adaptive sport seats are optional on other Panamera models.
Standard on the Panamera Turbo S is a 14-speaker, 710-watt Bose Surround Sound System with separate subwoofer; the system is optional on other Panamera models. A 21-speaker, 1,455-watt Burmester 3D High-End Surround System with an active 400-watt subwoofer is optional for all models.
Standard on every Panamera is the adjustable Porsche Active Suspension Management system with updated calibration for its adaptive dampers, further improving ride quality. The steering is also recalibrated to sharpen feedback and responsiveness.
All ’21 Panameras are equipped with lane-keep assist as standard. Using a camera, the system detects divider line markings on the road and helps the driver stay in lane by making corrective steering inputs at speeds above 40 mph (64 km/h).
Like the previous model, the updated Panamera can be further equipped with optional assistance systems including a head-up display, night-vision assist, lane-change assist, surround view and Porsche InnoDrive with adaptive cruise control.
The ’21 Panamera will be available to order starting in early 2021 and is expected to arrive at U.S. dealers in the spring. Pricing will be announced once order availability starts.
