We believe it. I mean why not? The first-generation Porsche Panamera, in its most potent Turbo S guise, decimates the 0-100 kph sprint in a mere 3.8 seconds courtesy its blown 4.8-litre V8 petrol engine good for 570 hp, and tops out at an unnerving 310 km/h. And with four doors, quilted leather upholstered space four occupants, it’s very much a luxury sedan. So when Porsche’s new teaser bills the upcoming, next-generation Panamera to be the fastest luxury sedan on earth, it’s entirely believable.
Scheduled for an international unveiling on June 28, the all-new Panamera, bearing evolutionary (but better) looks, will be based on the Volkswagen Group’s MSB platform, which features a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout. Aesthetically, it seems that Porsche has got it right with the Panamera this time around, as spy images point to a decidedly prettier profile. It is believed that the new Panamera will also spawn a wagon which will be based on the stunning Sport Turismo concept.
Power will reportedly come from turbocharged V6 and V8 engines, to be available in both petrol and diesel guises, as well as a plug-in hybrid power-train. The new platform will also make the new Panamera around 90 kg lighter than the first generation model. The 2017 Porsche Panamera is expected to be launched in Europe towards the end of the year, probably at the Paris Motor Show in September, followed by India in 2017. A new GT coupe, based on the same platform is also said to be in the works.