Porsche to bring base Panamera, Panamera Executive to LA Auto Show
Why it didn't introduce the base Panamera first, I'll never know.
When Porsche introduced the all-new 2017 Panamera, it rolled out the 4S and Turbo models first. Many of us were left wondering where the base model was, if it even existed. Well, it does, and it will be at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month, along with the big-body Executive model.
Whereas the Panamera 4S from the lineup debut came with a 440-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6, the base Panamera makes do with just 330 horsepower from the same engine. And since there isn't a 4 at the end of its name, that means it's rear-wheel drive. A Panamera 4 will be available, too, though.
The base Panamera is nice to see, but the real star of the show will be the Panamera Executive. Its wheelbase is 5.9 inches longer than the standard Panamera, which seriously expands the rear leg room. It's a car meant for chauffeurs, and it will be available in several trims, including 4 (base), 4 E-Hybrid, 4S and Turbo.
Standard features on the Panamera Executive expand to include a panoramic roof, roll-up sun blind, heated rear seats with electronic adjustment and Porsche's PASM air suspension. The 4S and Turbo models receive rear-wheel steering and soft-close doors. The Turbo, the grand daddy of them all, also gets four-zone climate control, ambient lighting and LED headlights.
No matter what Executive you opt for, you get a honkin' rear center console, which can be equipped with two folding tables and an inductive antenna to help boost smartphone reception. 10-inch displays can be detached and used as tablets outside the vehicle. It's all quite fancy, and we'll get to see it in person at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week.
