Johannesburg - Porsche says its new second-generation Panamera is headed for South Africa.
The automaker says: "With the latest transformation, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer aimed to systematically improve the Panamera concept and is therefore introducing a four-door car that has been redeveloped and redesigned down to every last detail," the company says.
Porsche South Africa says the car will arrive towards the end of 2016, while local specification and prices will be announced soon.
Fresh design, new tech
The new model, says Porsche, is still recognisable as a Panamera and boasts "pronounced shoulders, athletic flanks and a reclining roof line for a sports car-like profile".
Inside, the Panamera’s interface was designed to mimic a smartphone; dials and instrumentation have been replaced with touch-sensitive panels and individually configurable displays which take centre stage in the new Porsche Advanced Cockpit.
SPIED: Porsche's second-gen Panamera testing in SA
It benefits from an extended range of communication, convenience and assistance systems, while operation of the upgraded Advanced Cockpit is easier than before.
Interesting rear spoiler
Incorporated into the boot (which features electric opening and closing as standard), is the extendable rear spoiler now finished in body colour.
On the Panamera Turbo, the wing splits as it extends, a world first and pretty impressive. (Something we see on Transformer movies, think Bumble Bee and Optimus Prime, or perhaps even the next Iron Man flick- Ed)
At the lower rear body is a diffuser with integrated dual stainless steel tailpipes are integrated. The 4S is recognised by its round tailpipes, while the Turbo has trapezoidal tailpipe trims.
New powerful V6 and V8 biturbo engines
The Panamera Turbo’s 4.0-litre biturbo V8 develops 404kW at 5750 rpm and 770Nm (between 1960 and 4500 rpm). This model accelerates from standstill to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds, whilst with the Sport Chrono Package the sprint time is down to 3.6sec. Top speed is 306km/h.
The 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine of the Panamera 4S develops 324kW/550Nm. This model reaches 100km/h in just 4.4sec (4.2sec with the Sport Chrono Package) and tops out at 289km/h.
Both derivatives can be equipped with a permanent all-wheel drive system and a new eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK).
READ: New Porsche Panamera in SA