Porsche Panamera plus turbo plus hybrid equals max boost
Porsche proves hybrids are just for fuel economy, using the technology to give its new Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid 680 horsepower.
The Panamera is Porsche's only sedan, or limousine as the company calls it, in its lineup. Along with four doors and seating for four, the Panamera uses a hatchback over the cargo area instead of a traditional trunk.
Porsche offers various engine choices for the Panamera, including a plug-in hybrid. The Panamera Turbo S, with its 550 horsepower twin turbocharged V8, used to be the top model, but the new range topper is the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid.
The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid supplements the power from its twin turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with an electric drive system, delivering a combined output of 680 horsepower.
The hybrid system not only gives the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid more power, it will also improve fuel economy and let the car drive under electric power for about 30 miles.
Porsche positions the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid as a performance vehicle, giving it ceramic brakes and all-wheel drive standard.
The design of the Panamera, with its sculpted aluminum body panels, is unmistakably Porsche.
To call out its hybrid drivetrain, Porsche includes E-Hybrid badges around the car and paints the brake calipers bright green.
The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid also benefits from improved cabin electronics over the previous generation Panamera. It gets a wide, 12.3-inch touchscreen in the center dashboard, and haptic touch controls in the console cover.
Porsche appoints the cabin well, using quality materials such as thick leather coverings and metal switchgear.
As a top-of-the-line vehicle, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid also commands a high price, going for $184,400 base. Fortunately, it comes very well equipped with few needed options.