Porsche’s Latest Panamera 4S E-Hybrid: Reduced Power, Increased Cost

536 Horsepower: A Bargain at $126,800.

In November, Porsche unveiled the third-generation Panamera, featuring the base model with both rear- and all-wheel drive, as well as the high-performance Turbo E-Hybrid. However, the German automaker is now expanding the range with two more electrified variants. These models forgo the use of a large V8 engine in favor of a V6, but still retain the twin turbochargers, despite not carrying the “Turbo” moniker.

The Panamera 4E Hybrid integrates a 2.9-liter engine and an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 463 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. In contrast to its forerunner, the latest version has added eight robust horses but reduced its torque by 37 lb-ft. Despite its considerable weight, this sedan (technically classified as a hatchback) packs a serious punch, with a remarkable 0-60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds, which is 0.3 seconds faster than its predecessor. At top speed, it can reach an identical 174 mph.

Porsche’s latest version of the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid boasts a powerful output of 536 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. However, this upgrade comes at the cost of a slight decrease of 16 horses, while retaining the same levels of torque. Despite this change, the car is still able to achieve an impressive sprint time of 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. Though it should be noted that this is a reduction of 5 mph from the previous model.

The upgraded battery pack of all Panamera models now has a larger capacity of 25.9 kWh, an increase of 45 percent, without making any changes to its physical size. This battery is responsible for powering a stronger e-motor that is integrated into the automatic transmission, producing 187 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. Currently, Porsche has not disclosed the range details for their US models. However, it has been revealed that the European versions can cover a distance of up to 96 kilometers (60 miles) on pure electric power for the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and 92 kilometers (57 miles) for the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid. These numbers, based on WLTP standards, are likely to decrease when tested for EPA certification in the United States.

In the United States, Porsche is asking for $115,500 for the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and $126,800 for the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid. These latest editions come at a higher cost of $6,500 and $7,600 each. To justify the price, they come equipped with desirable features such as an adaptive air suspension and matrix LED headlights. Additionally, luxurious 14-way comfort seats, a heated steering wheel, soft-close doors, and lane change assist are all included to sweeten the deal.

Late March will mark the commencement of the order books, with an additional charge of $1,995 for delivery and handling fees. The vehicles are expected to arrive at dealerships in autumn.

In conclusion, the upcoming RS4 Avant (rumored to be renamed as the RS5 Avant) is expected to receive a variation of the powertrain found in the recently introduced Panamera hybrid versions. It has been officially announced by Audi Sport that this high-performance wagon will incorporate plug-in hybrid technology. Moreover, the brand has also stated that there will not be any four-cylinder RS models, making it reasonable to speculate that a hybridized 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 will be utilized.

Source: Porsche