Late last year, we brought you spyshots of the second-generation Porsche Panamera undergoing endurance testing on the road. With that phase out of the way, Porsche has now moved on to putting the successor to the unusually-styled sedan through its next big obstacle – cold-weather testing.
The thinly-disguised mule shows the typical ‘evolutionary rather than revolutionary’ styling direction. The front sports a mildly redesigned grille and headlight outlook, while the biggest change could be found at the back where smaller tail lamps coupled to a streamlined boot design should result in a less off-putting bottom.
Under the skin is where the next-gen Panamera will show off its biggest raft of upgrades. Set to ride on the MSB platform, the new car is expected to weigh less than the out-going model – insiders are already speculating a drop of 91 kg from its kerb weight.
A new range of engines are also set to debut on the new Porsche Panamera, with a variety of V6 and V8 mills being touted. The smaller engine is rumoured (most likely, though) to be employed as a platform for the plug-in hybrid version while a new, downsized twin-turbo V8 is set to replace the current 4.8 litre one.
All-wheel drive capability and semi-autonomous driving are both hotly rumoured to feature on the new Panamera. Elsewhere, goodies such as WiFi connectivity, a 3D sound system and wireless phone charging will further add to the tech arsenal on the new car.
With so many carmakers wanting a slice of the “niche market” cake, Porsche could also introduce a shooting brake version of the Panamera, likely to follow in the footsteps of the Sport Turismo concept. Don’t be surprised if we see a coupe variant that has the S-Class Coupe in its crosshair make its debut, as well.
GALLERY: Second-generation Porsche Panamera road testing
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The current one was ugly when these eyes first saw them on the web. Then saw them in the flesh, and found them not as ugly as in the pictures, but still not good looking. Cue a few years later, they actually look good now. Kudos to Porsche for designing a car that actually looks better 4 years later.
Since this new car is more evolutionary, I think it looks good. Longer and sleeker than the current one. Do hope they give it 5 seats rather than 4. I think a 5 seater can make it a more enticing purchase for those with families rather than just the businessmen market.
Wonder if this will get a new platform, and if yes, whether it will be shared with other VW group platforms, like Audi or Bentley perhaps.
Sorry can’t afford it. Not a MAS crony shareholder!
Strength in belief and confidence. Thumbs up.