Is the New Porsche Panamera Worth the Price?

TL;DR

The new Porsche Panamera impresses with its sleek design, high-quality interior, and advanced features, making it a strong contender in the luxury car market. While it offers various engine options, including hybrids, the price can be steep. For those considering a luxury vehicle, the Panamera is worth shortlisting, though alternatives like a used Bentley Continental Flying Spur may also be appealing.

Transcript

This is the new Porsche Panamera. And here's one of its new features. When you open the door, it raises up on its air suspension to make it easier for you to get in. And then it lowers down again when you close the door. Clever. But is the rest of the car clever? Well, I'm going to be finding out by testing its performance. Bloody hell. Checking th... Read More

Key Insights

• The new Porsche Panamera features a sleeker design with real air vents and proper door handles, enhancing its sporty appearance.
• The Panamera's interior boasts high-quality materials and a responsive infotainment system, though storage space is limited.
• Engine options range from a 2.9-liter V6 to a powerful 4-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid, offering up to 782 horsepower.
• The Panamera range starts at £89,400, with top models reaching up to £175,000, making it a pricey investment.
• Porsche's hybrid models offer tax benefits for company car buyers, reducing annual costs compared to non-hybrid versions.
• The car's advanced features include rear axle steering and active ride control, improving maneuverability and handling.
• Despite its size, the Panamera is comfortable to drive in town, and the hybrid system provides smooth performance.
• The Panamera is recommended for shortlisting due to its impressive features, though its high price may deter some buyers.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the new Porsche Panamera's design differ from previous models?

The new Porsche Panamera features a sleeker design with real air vents and proper door handles, replacing the pop-out handles of previous models. The car's front end borrows design elements from the Cayenne, and the rear has been slightly redesigned while maintaining the Panamera's distinctive look. These changes enhance the car's sporty and sophisticated appearance.

Q: What engine options are available for the Porsche Panamera?

The Porsche Panamera offers a range of engine options, starting with a 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 producing 353 horsepower. The lineup includes various pure ICE and hybrid models, culminating in the Turbo S e-Hybrid, which combines a 4-liter twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor to deliver 782 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. This variety caters to different performance and efficiency preferences.

Q: What are the tax benefits of choosing a hybrid Panamera?

Hybrid models of the Porsche Panamera offer significant tax benefits for company car buyers. The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, for example, incurs a benefit-in-kind tax of just over £9,100 per year, compared to almost £13,700 for a non-hybrid Panamera 4. These savings are due to the hybrid's lower CO2 emissions, making it a more economical choice for high-rate taxpayers.

Q: How does the Panamera perform in terms of handling and comfort?

The Porsche Panamera excels in handling and comfort, thanks to features like rear axle steering and active ride control. These technologies enhance maneuverability at low speeds and provide stability at higher speeds. The car's suspension system minimizes body roll and pitch, ensuring a comfortable ride. Additionally, the hybrid system offers smooth power delivery, making the Panamera a pleasure to drive both in town and on country roads.

Q: What is the price range for the new Porsche Panamera?

The price for the new Porsche Panamera starts at around £89,400 for the entry-level model. The range extends to approximately £175,000 for the top-spec Turbo S e-Hybrid. The cost varies based on the chosen engine and additional features, making the Panamera a significant investment in the luxury car market.

Q: What are some of the new features in the Panamera's interior?

The Panamera's interior features high-quality materials, such as soft-touch surfaces and premium leather. The infotainment system is crisp, sharp, and responsive, with customizable digital dials. The cabin offers ample seat adjustment for optimal visibility, though storage space is somewhat limited. Notable features include physical climate controls and a cooling fan for the wireless charging pad, enhancing user convenience.

Q: How does the Panamera's hybrid system affect its performance?

The Panamera's hybrid system enhances performance by providing smooth and seamless power delivery. The electric motor fills in power gaps before the turbochargers spool up, contributing to the car's impressive acceleration. The hybrid system also improves fuel efficiency, achieving around 35 MPG in normal driving conditions. This performance, combined with the car's handling capabilities, maintains the Panamera's reputation as a true performance vehicle.

Q: Is the Porsche Panamera a good value for money?

The Porsche Panamera offers excellent features, performance, and luxury, making it a compelling option for those seeking a high-end vehicle. However, its high price may be a deterrent for some buyers. The car's value is enhanced by its advanced technology and hybrid benefits, but alternatives like a used Bentley Continental Flying Spur may provide similar luxury at a potentially lower cost. Ultimately, the Panamera is worth shortlisting for those prioritizing performance and prestige.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Porsche Panamera's sleek design and high-quality interior make it a standout in the luxury car market. With engine options ranging from a V6 to a powerful V8 hybrid, it offers impressive performance. However, its high price tag may be a consideration for potential buyers.

• Featuring advanced technologies like rear axle steering and active ride control, the Panamera provides excellent handling and comfort. Hybrid models offer tax benefits, making them attractive for company car buyers. Despite limited storage, the interior's premium feel is a major plus.

• While the Panamera is a strong contender in its class, alternatives like a used Bentley Continental Flying Spur may offer similar luxury at a potentially lower cost. Overall, the Panamera is worth shortlisting for those seeking a high-performance luxury vehicle.