Porsche plans on launching a new Panamera in 2016, with an aluminum body, sportier driving dynamics and sharper looks. Porsche is likely to base the car on the new rear-drive and all-wheel-drive platform, MSB. The new Panamera will also incorporate some weight saving measures and an all-new family of V6 and V8 engines. These petrol engines promise strong power delivery, making it the sportiest premium sedan.
The new design will incorporate six different material types, including magnesium, multi phase steels and aluminum panels. This template is based on material design introduced on the 911, which helps shed up to 45kg, despite the increase in its size. Not only this, it is also helpful to get a higher level of equipment into the car and to pass more stringent crash tests.
“Weight is our enemy and we are looking for the same percentage of aluminium as on the new 911,” said Porsche technical head Wolfgang Hatz. “If you do nothing, the car becomes heavier and heavier. Comfort always equals weight too.”
Design chief Michael Mauer had earlier told journalists at the Paris motor show last month that the styling will “still divide opinion” but will be “more attractive”. Mauer said: “You have to recognise it is the new one, but as well recognise that it is the successor. So the car will look different. It will look better, but you will immediately see that it is the Panamera.”
The cabin might be redesigned, with a new touchscreen that incorporates some of the buttons that were earlier located on the centre console. Prototypes scooped testing appear to be strongly influenced by the latest 911, particularly the haunches over the rear wheel arches, which are emphasised by more pronounced creases on the new Panamera. The engine and transmission system are new, and the power could be transmitted via the new PDK dual-clutch automatic and manual transmissions. Porsche is not yet committing in public to other variants of the Panamera, but sources have revealed that two-door coupe and convertible versions are possible.
The green light for the two-door Panamera family now hinges as much on Porsche’s engineering capacity as on the projected market demand.
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