Initially, the Panamera is entering the market with V8 power units only, featuring either rear or all-wheel drive. The Panamera S is powered by a 4.8-litre V8 developing a maximum output of 400 bhp (294 kW). Power is transmitted to the rear wheels by a six speed manual transmission as standard, or the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch gearbox can be specified as an option.
The Panamera features Direct Fuel Injection engine technology, low-friction drive systems and lightweight bodyshells for optimum efficiency. Furthermore, offered in combination with the PDK transmission is the new Porsche Auto Start Stop function. This automatically switches off and restarts the engine when stationary to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions - for example, at traffic lights or in congestion.
The Panamera S, when fitted with the PDK option, can accelerate to 62mph (100 km/h) in 5.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 176mph (283 km/h). Combined fuel consumption to the EU5 standard, in turn, is 26.2 mpg (10.8 ltr/100 km) and the Co2 emission rating is 253 g/km.
The Panamera 4S also features the 4.8-litre V8 developing 400 bhp (294 kW), with engine power conveyed to all four wheels via the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe. Acceleration to 62mph (100 km/h) takes 5.0 seconds, top speed is 175mph (282 km/h). Fuel consumption to the EU5 standard is 25.4mpg (11.1 ltr/100 km) and Co2 emissions are 260 g/km.
At the head of the Panamera line-up is the Panamera Turbo, offering a twin-turbo 4.8-litre V8 developing 500 bhp (368 kW), with power transmitted again by the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK). With all-wheel drive as standard, the Panamera Turbo accelerates to 62mph (100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 188mph (303 km/h). Fuel consumption in the EU combined cycle is 23.2mpg (12.2 ltr/100 km) and Co2 emissions are 286 g/km.
The Porsche Panamera will go on sale in the UK and Ireland from September 12. Prices along with further technical specifications have yet to be confirmed.
Fitted to every Panamera will be a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the new Porsche Driving Experience Centre, Silverstone.