Porsche's newest Panamera will not be available until later this year, but the company's engineers are already claiming that this new unit is faster than its current Carrera GT. For a full luxury sedan, this declaration is pretty astonishing.
Road and Track noted that the Carrera GT's Nurburgring lap record is just short of 7 minutes and 29 seconds - with a claim that rally and auto racing driver, Walter Rohrl, finished the same in 7 minutes and 28 seconds flat. However, Gernot Dollner, who is Porsche's director for its Panamera line, has said that the upcoming Panamera will definitely be quicker around the German motorsports complex.
Currently, the unit is still unavailable for personal testing, but Porsche engineers have provided trial passenger rides in the vehicle. Top Gear reported that the G2 Panamera sports an all new platform and gearbox.
The new platform is much more flexible when compared to its outgoing predecessor. The new eight-speed PDK automatic is more efficient as well. This gear will be standard in all the new Panameras, as there is no alternative offering.
It is reportedly more comfortable as well, likely due to the new air suspension system. By improving control and providing anti-roll stability, the unit offers a smoother drive. The interior of the car is also more spacious this time around, due to a stretch in the wheelbase.
There is now a third chamber in its springs, which in turn, ups the capacity by at least 30% over the G1 Panamera. However, there is an option for the 48V electromechanical suspension system. Opting for this will give the vehicle the ability to tackle sharp corners without compromising the vehicle's stability.
The engine, which is a 4.0-liter Biturbo engine, switches to four cylinders when the opportunity is there, thus adhering to the more environment conscious. But when it is not, the Panamera boasts 543bhp and 567lbft of torque - allowing the turbo to reach as fast as 62mph in less than four seconds.
