This time, I had the opportunity to test drive Porsche’s new Panamera, so I’d like to share a brief report.
The new Panamera has finally landed in Japan. The model I drove was the base grade Panamera, just arrived in Japan.

Refined Design with a Big Facelift

The new Panamera is positioned more as a big facelift rather than a full model change, representing the late version of the 971 series. The Panamera Turbo I previously drove was the early 971 model; there was a mid-term version, and now this is the late version.

Although the exterior design has changed significantly, the differences are subtle enough that only owners might notice. In particular, the front bumper shape has changed, and the grille has grown larger, giving a stronger presence. Personally, the photos didn’t leave a great impression.

However, seeing the actual car in person, it looks much smarter and more compact than I had imagined. The roof feels lower, and the body lines sit much lower. The rear tail lamp area has also been refined, gaining more thickness. Overall, the rear looks more settled and stylish.

To reiterate, the exterior is much cooler in person than in photos. The photos may make it look a bit clunky, but the real car appears very sharp and compact. You can rest assured on that point.

V6 Engine and Exceptionally Quiet Ride

The test car was the basic Panamera V6 model. It is equipped with a 2.9-liter V6 turbo engine producing 353 horsepower. The torque is an impressive 500 Nm, available over a wide range from 1900 to 4800 rpm.

According to the specs, the top speed is 272 km/h, and 0-100 km/h acceleration is 5.1 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package. It’s definitely faster than before. The price is 14.66 million yen. Although slightly higher than the previous model, the power and spec improvements justify it.

Driving around town, the first thing that surprises you is the high level of quietness. With each model change, the Panamera has become quieter, and this V6 model is no exception. It’s so quiet that you might say it lacks the typical Porsche character, and even the idling stop is barely noticeable. However, for those who don’t care much about engine sound, this might actually be preferable.
The cabin’s sound insulation is excellent, making communication with passengers easy. You can be sure of a stress-free long drive. It has all the qualities you want in a sedan.

This particular car’s body color is an elegant Carrara White Metallic. The 20-inch Panamera design wheels stand out on the feet. The design evokes the classic 911 wheels, which I personally like.

If I were to be picky, the tires were Hankook rather than Michelin or Pirelli. While they have passed Porsche’s approval tests and should be fine performance-wise, the look is disappointing. The shoulder is too rounded, and the sidewall design resembles family car tires. Although performance isn’t an issue, this is one area where I’d prefer more attention to detail.

Advanced Features and User-Friendly Interface

The interior has become thoroughly high-tech, with a greatly improved infotainment system. The meter panel is fully digital now, offering excellent visibility. The driver assistance system displays are clear, showing adaptive cruise control settings at a glance.

The center console design has also changed dramatically. Inside the lid, there is a space for wireless charging of smartphones. Convenient storage solutions are thoughtfully incorporated throughout.

Equipped with contactless charging

The air conditioning controls are cleverly laid out, making them intuitive to operate even for first-timers without stress.

Notably, the shift lever has disappeared from the center console. Instead, a shift selector is located beside the steering wheel, the same concept as the Porsche Taycan. Press the parking button, select the drive range, and then it’s just throttle operation. The shifting process has become surprisingly simple.

Moved beside the steering wheel like the Taycan. Very easy to operate.

Panamera finally adopts a start button

This unit features seats with massage function

Smoothness Like an EV and Powerful Acceleration—The Essence of a Sports Sedan

The suspension on this Panamera is simply outstanding. The further evolved air suspension absorbs rough road bumps firmly without feeling soft or mushy. It strikes a perfect balance between refinement and a taut ride. Hardly anyone will worry about ride comfort with this setup.

Regarding acceleration, it doesn’t have the silky smoothness of a Taycan, but the ability to reach 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds is genuine. The mid-range power delivery is strong, making highway merges very reassuring. This is power you wouldn’t expect from a base model.

Fully digital meters

Adaptive cruise control has evolved further. It follows smoothly even in traffic jams without jerking.

The cornering behavior is truly Porsche. With a low center of gravity and minimal body roll, it’s extremely neutral.

Even in Normal mode, it feels quite sporty, but switching to Sport mode stiffens the suspension and doubles the sharpness. You can enjoy handling close to a 911’s agility. I personally think this base Panamera’s charm is best brought out in Sport mode or higher.

The PDK transmission has also improved dramatically. This is worth highlighting. It’s lightning fast. When you tap the steering wheel paddles, the response is so crisp you’d think you were driving a 911. The transmission performance goes beyond what you expect from a sedan, and it’s truly impressive.

Summary: The New Panamera Has All the Qualities You Want in a Sedan

The base grade of the new Panamera is definitely recommended if you want a sporty sedan.

It offers driving performance close to a 911 while maintaining the practicality of a sedan. If you want a lively driving experience, this V6 model is the best choice.

On the other hand, if you want a more refined, luxurious ride, overwhelming acceleration, and quiet EV mode driving, I recommend the hybrid model. And if you want to enjoy a powerful engine feel, you should choose the V8 turbo model.

The Panamera lineup offers a wide range of characters. Please carefully consider which grade suits you best.

The new Panamera has just arrived in Japan. Since the impression from photos and the actual car differ quite a bit, I encourage you to visit your nearest Porsche Center to see the real thing and, if possible, take a test drive.
After all, this sedan is no ordinary sports sedan. It hides performance that rivals sports cars. You’re sure to be captivated by its charm.