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.
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