Porsche has added a new entry point to its four-door Panamera range.

Previously only with big V8 engines, the German firm has introduced a V6 version costing more than £12,000 less than the V8, while with the optional £2338 seven-speed PDK automatic gearbox it actually drops into the 33% company car tax banding, compared with the maximum 35% of the rest of the range. Fuel economy also tips over the 30mpg mark for the first time in the Panamera range.

To drive, the V6 is still plenty fast enough, and in normal road conditions it’s difficult to tell that it has 100hp less than the V8 that previously acted as range-entry point. That equates to a 0-62mph time of 6.3 seconds, just under a second behind the V8, and it will top out at 161mph rather than the more powerful car’s 176mph.

The same Panamera problem of its questionable looks remains, but it’s still a highly competent grand tourer that offers plenty of space for four people, decent luggage room and a good combination of ride quality and handling prowess. Nothing has been dumbed down for the new cheaper version, and it’s more appealing as a result.

Porsche Panamera V6 manual
P11D price £63,799
Model price range £61,461-£97,358
Fuel consumption 30.4mpg
CO2 (tax) 218g/km (33%)
BIK 20/40%
per month
£351/£702
Service interval 20,000miles
Insurance (1-50) group 49 (est.)
Warranty 2yrs/ unlimited mls
Boot space min/max 445/1263litres
Engine size/power 3605cc/300hp
Top speed/0-62mph 161mph/6.3secs
On sale October 2010
Score 7/10
Verdict New V6 brings ownership
more than £10k closer,
and running costs also
improve significantly
without the driver feeling
short-changed by t
he performance.