Proving how important developing markets can be to an automaker’s bottom line, Porsche has announced that its upcoming Panamera sedan will be making its world debut at the 2009 Shanghai Motor Show. The Shanghai show opens its doors to the public on April 20th, but the Panamera will make its debut at a press conference scheduled for April 19th.
Although the Panamera’s styling is controversial, it’s hard to argue with the sedan’s performance figures. From launch, the Panamera will be offered with either a naturally aspirated V8 or a twin-turbocharged 500 horsepower bent eight, with a Volkswagen-sourced 300 horsepower 3.6L V6 coming on line shortly after.
Buyers will also be able to choose from a six-speed manual or Porsche’s new seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. The top level turbo car will come standard with all-wheel drive, while lesser models will have the option of Porsche’s Porsche Traction Management.
Given its April debut date, the Panamera will have a lengthy gap between its European and U.S. debuts. The next closest show would be July’s London Motor Show, followed by the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
01/05, 12:17 PM
posted by:
mayer_ray_nagin
This is only because Porsche knows that Asian cultures will generally not permit them to laugh outloud at the sight of this monstrosity at the debut. You know – that “politeness to the guest” BS.
01/05, 12:34 PM
posted by:
Bankruptcy2009
Hmmm Only 500 Horsepower .
Hmmm I wonder if Porsche Panamera is using an AWD system like the GT-R
01/05, 12:49 PM
posted by:
Andre Neves
Bankruptcy2009,
Looking at Porsche’s recent V8 Twin turbo history in recent times, they’re probably reserving a high HP version(550-600HP) on a Turbo “S” model like they did on the 996 Turbo and the ‘06/09 Cayennes.
01/05, 12:50 PM
posted by:
Andre Neves
Correction:
Turbo “S” higher output models(not just with V8s but with flat 6s of their 911s.
01/05, 1:24 PM
posted by:
howsmydriving
Yes, an “S” model is a virtual certainty, as it’s another way for Porsche to suck money out of chumps’ wallets.
01/05, 3:12 PM
posted by:
jmayhew
The ‘S’ model will also put smiles on all the faces of the owners with fat enough wallets as they blow by a few supercars in a sedan.
01/05, 3:43 PM
posted by:
bmw 740i
the side profile of the car is just wierd… but boy must it be an absolute rush to drive
01/05, 4:15 PM
posted by:
whips001
whats all the hype about what about the Estoque? I know porsche makes the best cars but Lambo will have the time to study porsche perfect there 4door. and it already looks better ntm (standard all wheel drive)
01/05, 7:23 PM
posted by:
tyler_is_aero_tt
Idk I still wouldn’t buy it because of the looks.
01/06, 8:45 AM
posted by:
Gundy
HA, Mayer, excellent! I love the fact that it is avaliable with a 6-speed manual, big time. And, will obviously be a sweet, sweet car to drive, and probably even ride in. But, that doesn’t help the fact that it’s still a fat-bottomed girl (anyone remember the group Queen? Just checking).. I can’t get past the profile view with that crazy sloping hump on the back, whew. Give me a Quattroporte anyday, or anything in the same price range. Or, even 50 Tata Nanos..