What Day is October 12th?

Last year on October 12th, a Panamera Turbo arrived at our home. Has it only been one year? It feels like it’s been about three. Here’s the mileage and other details:

〘One Year Review〙
・Mileage: 13,749 km
・Oil top-up: once
・Oil changes: three times (initial inspection, at 6,500 km, and one-year inspection)
・Flat tire: once (minor puncture fixed during the one-year inspection, so no tire replacement)
・Breakdowns: No major issues, but “PSM malfunction” warning appeared while driving on the highway during heavy rain. However, the dealer checked it and found no problems.

So today, I want to share my thoughts now that it’s been a year since we took delivery of the Panamera Turbo. Let’s start with my husband’s perspective.

Husband’s Review: What He Likes (+)

① Truly “Versatile”

When cruising through town, it’s a luxurious sports sedan. But switch to Sport Plus mode, and the air suspension lowers aggressively, the engine response peaks. It really feels like driving a GT3. Hearing the PDK shift crisply as you carve up winding roads is pure joy.

② Outstanding Stability at High Speeds

There are other cars that feel easier just going straight, and some might prefer those, but the Panamera offers rich tire contact and feedback, which greatly reduces any sense of unease. It remains rock-solid even through highway curves, and nothing unexpected happens. It can warp-speed from any speed with a single push, with zero stress. In this regard, the Panamera is truly exceptional.

③ Excellent Turn-in Thanks to Rear Axle Steering

You don’t notice much benefit during everyday city driving or normal highway cruising, but it’s hugely effective when parking or tackling tight winding roads. It’s definitely an option I’d want on my next Porsche.

④ Just the Right Amount of Heft

Compared to the previous 970 Panamera, the 971 feels generally lighter and more agile. However, compared to the 4S, the Panamera Turbo retains a satisfying sense of weight and solidity. Yet it never feels “heavy off the line” or difficult to drive. It’s a perfect balance.

Husband’s Review: Points of Concern (−)

① Sometimes Slow PDK Shift Response at Low to Mid RPM

Considering its role as a luxury sedan, I think Porsche prioritizes smooth shifting over quick response. I imagine this tuning avoids harsh shift shocks.

Because of this, shift shocks are barely noticeable in any situation, making for a very comfortable ride. But since it’s a Porsche, I wish the response was a bit sharper.

② Front Seat Cushion Feels Slightly Firm

Our Panamera has the Turbo’s standard comfort seats (14-way power with memory), but I wish the seat cushion was a bit thicker or softer. Sometimes it’s not painful, but it can feel a bit uncomfortable. Of course, this depends heavily on body type and preference, so just take this as a personal note.

③ Japanese Comfort Pressure Tire Inflation Issue

The Japanese-spec comfort pressure tire inflation is only rated up to 160 km/h. The German-spec comfort pressure is rated up to 270 km/h, but the Japanese version is limited to 160 km/h.

This can’t be changed by settings, so Japanese owners must choose between “standard pressure (F3.1 bar / R2.8 bar) with higher pressure” or “comfort pressure (F2.3 / R2.3) limited to 160 km/h” — two extreme options. Also, exceeding 160 km/h on comfort pressure triggers audible warnings on the instrument panel, which can be startling and dangerous. Lowering the pressure on standard settings triggers low-pressure warnings.

This is something I really want Porsche Japan to fix. I strongly hope for an update to improve this. That’s all from my husband’s perspective.

Well, since he’s been so precise, maybe my amateur opinion isn’t needed… (-_-) But since I’m here, here’s my take from a woman’s point of view.