Porsche’s Taycan EV has proven a massive hit—the EV outsold the iconic 911 last year. And, given the similarities between its body styles/dimensions and those of the Panamera, as well as certain carmaker’s willingness to give up on ICE (internal combustion engine) models, one might’ve expected the later to be put out of business by the battery-powered sensation. However, Porsche has positioned itself as a brand that will continue to pursue ICE developments while moving into the electric era. And the Germans are now backing that statement with a new generation of the Panamera, which can be seen here in its final development stages.
Porsche had been considering a long-roof coupe that cout cater to the transportation needs of four or five adults ever since the 1980s when the Study H50 concept proposed a four-door 928. However, the first iteration of the Panamera didn’t arrive until 2009, with the current Gen II model taking over in 2016.
And, for the Gen III Panamera, Porsche is expected to follow its traditional recipe involving an evolutionary rathern than a revolutionary pathway. However, you shouldn’t let the prototype seen in the video below trick you into believing the visuals of the newcomer will be identical to those of the outgoing model.
For one, if we look past the rear door, we notice that the tiny side window at the back appears to be a wrap trick, so you can expect a different approach for this part of the greenhouse. Another change is highlighted by the headlights, which seem to be getting slightly smaller, albeit while once again using tape disguise.
The Nurburgring run of the test car reveals a meaty soundtrack
Returning to the said test car, YouTube label CarSpyMedia recorded the vehicle doing hot laps on the Nurburgring. So, not only do we get to see the large Porsche dancing on the three-dimensional twists of the infamous German toll road, but we also have a chance to listen to its engine.
And, at least to these ears, it seems that the prototype is emanating the deep soundtrack of a V8. Speaking of which, the Gen III Panny, which used the 972 codename, is expected to feature revised versions of the current car’s twin-turbo 2.9L V6 and 4.0L V8, 48V mild-hybrid assistance included.
Of course, today’s roster of hybrid models, which include the 4 E-Hybrid, 4S E-Hybrid and the monstrous Turbo S E-Hybrid range-topper, will also be updated. For one, the electrical side of the systems will be beefed up, so you can expect more generous battery packs and electric motors.
When will Porsche release the new Panamera?
With the third-generation Panamera expected to debut next year as a 2024 model, we’ll meet the upgraded engines in the facelifted third-gen Cayenne SUV, which should land in the next six months.
As showcased by other spied prototypes, the interior of the 2024 Porsche Panamera will feature a more minimalist take. Porsche has already reduced the number of buttons in its cars, but the next Panny will take a cue from the Taycan (here’s the electric Porsche drag racing the 1,111 HP Lucid Air)—test vehicles have shown that the center console-mounter shifter was replaced with a shaver-like piece sitting on the left of the infotainment system.
As far as tech goes, the next generation of Porsche models should open new doors in terms of infotainment, features and over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
The current Gen II Panamera has, over the years, been involved in the battle for a Nurburgring record. And while these may be mere numbers, especially when talking about such long-roof models (here’s the upcoming 911 GT3 RS testing for a change!), Porsche has shown no indication of changing its engaging driving experience focus for the model that may become the final ICE generation.
