Porsche is out testing prototypes for a redesigned Panamera, likely to be the last offered with internal-combustion engines.
The current Panamera, the second generation of the nameplate, arrived for the 2017 model year and was given an update for 2021.
Considering the original Panamera stuck around for about seven years, we should see this third-generation model arrive for the 2024 model year, meaning a debut later this year is likely. The lack of camouflage gear on the latest prototype also suggests the debut can’t be far.
The redesigned Panamera will be more of a heavy update than a true next-generation car, as it is set to stick with the MSB platform that debuted in the current Panamera and also underpins Bentley’s Continental and Flying Spur models. However, it should boast an updated range of powertrains.
While more power is a given, the updates to the powertrains are expected to focus on reduced emissions across the board, as well as a combination of increased range and reduced charging times for plug-in hybrid options.
There will be changes to the styling, though this will be subtle, as is normally the case for Porsches. In particular, the headlights can clearly be seen to feature a squarer shape, a change that also features on the updated 2024 Cayenne. A new interior design with a fully digital dash, just like in the Taycan and updated Cayenne is also likely.
Porsche is expected to eventually launch an electric Panamera. It’s possible that car will grow in size to target full-size sedan buyers and provide some differentiation with the Taycan which is just a few inches shorter than the current Panamera.
The electric Panamera is likely some years away still. Porsche will be busy in the meantime with an electric Macan due in 2024, which will be followed in subsequent years by an electric 718 sports car, an electric Cayenne, and then an electric three-row SUV serving as a seventh model line for the automaker.