Two New Porsche Panamera Models Arrive at US Dealers

The North American division Porsche announced two new Panamera models will begin arriving at nationwide dealerships today. The 2011 Panamera and Panamera 4 featuring the fuel efficient 300-horsepower V6 engine will follow the wheel tracks of the successful V8-powered Panamera S, Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo models.

The newly developed 3.6-liter, 90-degree V6 engine propels the Panamera and Panamera 4 from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 and 5.8 seconds, respectively (5.8 and 5.6 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package Plus option). Top test track speeds are 160 and 159 mph, respectively.

 In terms of fuel economy, the Panamera achieves 18 mpg city/27 highway while the all-wheel-drive Panamera 4 delivers 18 mpg city/26 highway. US models come with PDK seven-speed double-clutch gearbox and the Auto Start Stop function, neither of them being subject to a gas-guzzler tax. Moreover, both meet the EU5 emission standard in Europe and the LEV standard in the United States.

“Like the proven V8 models, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4, as genuine Gran Turismos, combine a sporting character with a high standard of comfort and everyday driving qualities. Steel suspension is standard, and variable dampers and adaptive air suspension with additional air volume on demand are optional,” a company statement reads.

 Other standard equipment includes an electric moonroof and power liftgate, the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with navigation, Bi-Xenon headlights, Bluetooth telephone connectivity, and the universal audio interface to connect an external audio source such as an iPod or a USB stick with the PCM system.

The Panamera and Panamera 4 MSRPs are $74,400 and $78,900, excluding destination.