The “Porsche Owners File” features ownership reports from Porsche enthusiasts across the nation. This time, we delve into the Panamera GTS (971).

〘Owner Information〙
・Featured Car: 971 Panamera GTS (MY2021)
・Residence: Hokkaido
・Previous Car History:
Honda Prelude (BB4)
→ Honda Integra Type R (DB8)
→ Honda Odyssey (RB1) + NSX (NA1)
→ Audi A6 Avant (C6)
→ Audi S4 (B8)
→ BMW M3 Sedan (E90)
→ Porsche 971 Panamera 4S (MY2018)
→ Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 (C257)
→ 911 Carrera 4GTS (991 pre-facelift) + Ferrari 458 Italia (MY2010)
→ Ferrari F8 Tributo on order + 971 Panamera GTS (MY2021)

1) The Journey to Purchase

My car selection criteria are simple: “fast, stylish, and with beautiful dashboard lighting.” Modern Porsche vehicles fit this bill perfectly.

Among them, I’m particularly drawn to the rear taillights, which Porsche was so particular about that only one manufacturer could meet their stringent requirements.

Until recently, I owned two sports cars, a Porsche 911 and a Ferrari 458, but I realized they didn’t quite fit my lifestyle.

When I received the notification that I could officially order the F8 Tributo, I decided to part with the 911 and 458 and began my search for a new Porsche, ultimately returning to the 971 Panamera.

2) Options/Specifications

Carrara White Metallic
GTS Interior Package (Carmine Red)
21-inch Panamera Exclusive Design Sport Wheels in Black (High Gloss)
LED Matrix Headlights (including PDLS Plus)
Privacy Glass
Head-Up Display
Night Assist
Traffic Jam Assist
Soft-Close Doors
Ionizer
4-Zone Climate Control
Cup Holder Cover (Front)
Smoker Package
CD/DVD Changer
USB Interface (Rear)

The timing of my car search coincided with the semiconductor shortage. Initially, I considered an SUV, but both the Cayenne and Macan had uncertain delivery times for new cars. Unable to predict when a new car would arrive, I decided to choose from the pre-ordered vehicles at the local authorized dealer.

A key criterion was addressing a regret from my previous Panamera 4S: the inability to adjust the passenger seat from the driver’s seat. I wanted seats with 14-way adjustment or more to allow for easy adjustments, especially when my child or wife falls asleep in the passenger seat.

This led me to search for a Panamera GTS or Turbo, where 14-way seats are standard, and the GTS model fit my budget.

Another must-have was the soft-close doors. Since the Macan didn’t offer this, I considered various options and ultimately searched nationwide for certified pre-owned Cayenne Coupes, Cayennes, and Panameras, leading me to this Panamera.

I didn’t consider a plug-in hybrid due to my current living environment.

Incidentally, I placed the order in June 2021, and the car was delivered in early July.

4) Experiencing Porsche’s Performance

① Engine/Engine Sound

Knowing the specs—480PS, 620Nm, V8 3996cc twin-turbo—one might expect more, but it feels somewhat restrained.

While I wish the GTS boasted over 500PS, I trust Porsche has its reasons, and perhaps it’s pointless for amateurs to critique based solely on numbers.

The Panamera GTS is undoubtedly fast, but compared to the Panamera 4S (440PS, 550Nm), the differences in power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios are slight, making acceleration from low to mid speeds feel similar.

From a standstill, the car’s weight is noticeable, and compared to the 911 or 458, it feels like the speed doesn’t match the throttle input.

However, during highway merges, overtaking, or accelerating out of gentle corners on regular roads, the car accelerates with relentless momentum. This breadth of capability is a hallmark of the V8.

Its smoothness and fluidity are reminiscent of a naturally aspirated engine.

The catalog’s claim of “delivering power directly and exhibiting characteristics akin to a naturally aspirated engine” is most evident in these scenarios.

In Sport mode, the shift timing is extended, and downshifts feature blipping, but the engine response doesn’t change much, suggesting that even in Normal mode, the response is sharp enough.

In Sport Plus mode, the throttle becomes extremely sensitive, and the chassis stiffens, giving it a racing car-like demeanor, though it’s hard to fully utilize these features on public roads.

The sports exhaust sound, while seemingly unnecessary for the Panamera, is enjoyable in its own right (though it requires some discretion depending on time and place).

And, as expected of a GTS model, I love the roar at engine start-up. The 4S had a bold start-up sound, but the GTS is even more powerful and exhilarating.

Compared to the 4S, the GTS has noticeably more interior sound resonance.

Among GTS models, it seems louder and more aggressive than the 991.1 Carrera 4GTS. Honestly, it’s quite noticeable during early morning or late-night starts.

② PDK

Regardless of the situation—shifting up or down, speed, gear, mode setting, or manual operation—it’s always smooth. There’s absolutely no shift shock, so in that sense, it’s almost too flawless to comment on.

Whether on regular roads or highways, it matches the gear and speed to my mental image based on throttle and brake input, so I rarely use manual mode.

A slightly stronger brake or a gentle throttle release followed by a light tap will downshift, and being able to control the number of downshifts at will would be incredibly convenient and sporty.

③ Handling

Despite its seemingly heavy appearance, the Panamera’s handling is remarkably sharp, and its agility is surprisingly nimble.

I suspect the GTS’s unique charm lies in its handling, as it feels both sharp and light.

The steering changes direction precisely as you turn it, with razor-sharp turn-in that belies its weight and width, truly embodying a sports saloon. Its high grip and responsive steering make it a joy to drive.

The power steering’s load is perfectly balanced, creating an overall impression of unity between driver and car.

④ Fuel Efficiency

Around 6km/l in the city and 10km/l on the highway.
With a V8 twin-turbo, fuel efficiency isn’t a primary concern.

⑤ Ride Comfort and Quality

The PASM sport chassis setup is exquisite, offering a smooth and supple ride. Although I heard the default setting is firmer than the standard model, it doesn’t feel uncomfortable. In fact, its ability to maintain a flat ride across various conditions showcases Porsche’s dedication to quality.

⑥ Family Reactions

No matter what car comes home, my daughter always criticizes, saying, “The previous (971 Panamera 4S) was better.” This time, she coolly remarked, “Why do you keep buying cars?”

Conversely, my usually quiet wife in the passenger seat softly commented, “The ride is comfortable and reassuring…” encapsulating the Panamera’s appeal.

My high school son positively noted, “You seem happiest when choosing cars (in life).”

⑦ Favorite Features

My favorite feature is undoubtedly the Alcantara-rich interior paired with the Carmine Red GTS Interior Package. The red seat belts add a special touch, which is well-received by the whole family.

Unlike the carbon trim in the 991.1 Carrera 4GTS, this one features brushed aluminum, which I didn’t mind, so I kept it standard.

The dashboard is unchanged from the standard model, except for the “GTS” logo.

I prefer the non-colored rev counter, so it suits me perfectly.

Additionally, the minor change to the rear taillights, resembling the 992 911, is another favorite feature.

The elegance of the soft-close doors is also a highlight.

Moreover, the four-point daytime running lights seem sharper, with a slightly more aggressive look, which I like.

The red-painted brake calipers are another favorite.

Ultimately, while I claim not to be particular about grades, I am very fond of the GTS’s aesthetic and engine sound.

4) Options

In Porsche, the “ability to adjust the passenger seat from the driver’s seat” is categorized as non-operable while driving, so it can only be adjusted when stopped, such as at a traffic light. (In Mercedes, the passenger seat can be quickly adjusted from the driver’s seat even while driving.)

Moreover, it requires multiple button operations, so it’s faster to lean over and directly adjust the buttons when the car is stopped.

Therefore, I won’t prioritize the “ability to adjust the passenger seat from the driver’s seat” in the future.

However, with 14-way seats or more, the steering column is electric, and the easy entry function moves the steering column and seat during entry and exit.

With a car of Panamera’s stature, an electric steering column is desirable.

The 8-way “easy entry” function doesn’t move the seat or steering when the engine is off, only allowing window operation with the key, so for a car of Panamera’s stature, an electric steering column should be standard.

Options I’m Glad to Have

・18-way Electric Adaptive Sports Seats
These are standard on the GTS model. The seat and backrest sides are deeply contoured, and while I haven’t compared them to 14-way seats, I can say, “They’re comfortable and don’t cause back pain.”

・GTS Interior Package (Carmine Red)
The stitching, seat belts, and headrest embroidery are colored, enhancing the Alcantara.

・Seat Heaters (Front and Rear)
With Alcantara, the seats don’t feel too cold, but seat heaters are essential in northern regions. They’re very useful.

・Soft-Close Doors
Once experienced, it’s unforgettable. The quiet “click” as the door closes is always a fresh thrill.

・Ambient Light
Compared to other German cars, the dimming and color are more subdued. While not essential, it’s definitely better to have it.

・4-Zone Climate Control
Without this, the rear seat area has a large gap. Surprisingly few used cars have this, making it a challenge to find one.

Options I Wanted but Didn’t Have

・If I could have ordered a panoramic roof, I would have. Also, I want the “door entry guards” to be illuminated. Since the 971 Panamera doesn’t offer this as an aftermarket option, I’m eagerly awaiting its availability.

Options I Could Do Without

・21-inch Panamera Exclusive Design Sport Wheels in Black (High Gloss)
I considered using the same wheels for winter tires, so the standard 20-inch might have sufficed.

・LED Matrix Headlights (including PDLS Plus)
While convenient, I’d hesitate to add them as an option.

・CD/DVD Changer
I haven’t used it at all.

・Night Assist
It automatically alerts you to pedestrians or cyclists ahead at night. It’s useful in rural areas or rainy intersections, but by the time it alerts you, you’re already quite close, so it’s more of a reference.

・Head-Up Display
It’s handy if you frequently use adaptive cruise control and navigation.
I end up using the ◇ button to toggle it on and off, using it as ambient lighting during night drives or based on mood.

・Ionizer
I haven’t noticed its effects.

Other Opinions on Options and Equipment

I’m curious about the handling with PDCC and rear-axle steering, which aren’t equipped.
Also, unless you’re taking it to the track, PCCB brakes might be unnecessary.

The rear spoiler, which rises and splits to the sides like the Turbo (or Turbo S), looks fantastic.

A Porsche enthusiast friend told me, “The Panamera GTS has the same spoiler shape as the Turbo, which is cool,” and I only realized its appeal after delivery.

5) Concerns

The size is a concern. Whether at a supermarket or a pay-by-the-hour parking lot, I have to be cautious.

Additionally, the rear seat is usually a 60:40 split, but with the 4+1 seat option, it’s 40:20:40. I’d prefer it to always be 40:20:40.

While not directly related to the car, the manual’s lever operation explanations were very unclear, both visually and numerically.

There were typos and contradictions with previously mentioned sections, making it difficult to understand without trial and error. I hope this is improved.

6) Overall Impression

The Porsche philosophy of “combining high performance with practicality” is strongly felt in every model.
I believe the Panamera is woven from this Porsche philosophy as the warp and the four-seater sports saloon as the weft, making it my number one Porsche, especially with its design.

For our family, it’s a unique magic carpet that safely and comfortably takes us anywhere.

7) What Does Porsche Mean to Me?

Porsche is a trusted partner in my life’s journey. A car that combines high practicality with sports performance, that’s Porsche. Since the advent of LED, the lighting has become more alluring, and its charm is limitless.

While I own cars from other manufacturers, Porsche is the one I wish to stay with for life.