The Porsche 911 reigns supreme as the ultimate sports car for many enthusiasts. But what if that iconic performance could be combined with the practicality of four doors and extra seating? That's the proposition of the Porsche Panamera, a four-door, four-seater sports car seamlessly blending the 911's exhilarating engineering with enhanced comfort and luxury. The 2024 model, representing the third generation, arrives with significant updates, reinforcing its position as a top contender in the high-performance luxury segment.
Porsche has significantly bolstered the Panamera's powertrain options for 2024, increasing overall horsepower and introducing more electric variants. The additions of the Turbo S E-Hybrid and GTS models in 2025 further elevate performance, with Porsche claiming a 0-60 mph time of just 2.8 seconds for the S E-Hybrid. While exterior and interior styling refinements are subtle, they enhance the already sleek and sculpted design, retaining the classic Panamera aesthetic: a luxurious yet undeniably sporty machine.
The hallmark Porsche emphasis on choice remains. Buyers are presented with seven distinct trims, including four hybrid models offering increased power and up to 50 miles of all-electric range. These trims, along with their respective power outputs and starting prices (all in GBP, approximate conversions from USD figures provided), are:
Panamera: £83,000 (348 hp)
Panamera 4: £89,000 (348 hp)
Panamera 4 E-Hybrid: £93,500 (463 hp)
Panamera 4 S E-Hybrid: £103,000 (536 hp)
Panamera GTS: £125,000 (493 hp)
Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid: £155,000 (512 hp)
Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid: £184,000 (771 hp)
The extensive options list allows for significant personalisation, covering interior detailing, upholstery, and even unique exterior colours. A test-driven Panamera 4 model, equipped with features such as a head-up display, passenger display, and heated and ventilated front and rear seats, reached a price of approximately £115,000.
Beyond the powertrain upgrades, Porsche has improved the standard air suspension system, designed for superior bump absorption. For an even more dynamic driving experience, the optional Porsche Active Ride suspension optimises wheel grip and maintains body level even under hard braking or cornering. Rear-wheel steering is also available as an option, while high-performance brakes are fitted to the top-tier GTS and S E-Hybrid models. All models incorporate a steering wheel-mounted drive mode switch offering Normal, Sport, and Sport+ settings, further enhanced with the optional Sport Chrono Package.
Inside, the Panamera boasts a modernised interior. The traditional centre console gear shifter is replaced by an angled panel housing cup holders and climate controls, with the gear selector relocated to the dashboard, mirroring the Taycan's design. This contributes to a cleaner, more functional centre console. A 10.9-inch digital driver display replaces the physical gauges, providing customisable data views. Front and rear passengers benefit from enhanced infotainment, with a passenger display on the dashboard and a rear-seat screen facilitating navigation, music control, and other functions.
Porsche's commitment to luxury remains unwavering. The cabin features full leather surrounds, and the updated Apple CarPlay integration now controls climate and ambient lighting functions, previously accessible only through the built-in voice assistant or touchscreen. Apple CarPlay also provides control over the optional massaging front and rear seats.
On the road, the Panamera delivers a delightful driving experience, even in the entry-level model. The 348 hp engine provides ample power for everyday driving and effortless overtaking. Braking is smooth and responsive, and the steering feels natural and precise. The performance-oriented seating, both front and rear, ensures passengers enjoy the thrill without discomfort, making the Panamera a truly versatile high-performance vehicle suitable for family outings as well as exhilarating solo drives. The perfect blend of power, luxury, and practicality solidifies the Panamera's position as a compelling choice in the high-performance luxury market.