In a good way, actually; the 2017 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid is the second generation of the Panamera hybrid, meaning it’s better, faster, more stylish and even more efficient than its predecessor. The 462-hp Porsche will supposedly use only 2.5 liters/100 km (94 MPG US) and provide the driver with a 50 km electric range – I’m not sure if that remains true at 140 km/h, the top speed of this vehicle in purely electric mode.
Otherwise, 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) is dealt with in 4.6 seconds and this Porsche will apparently max out 278 km/h (170 mph), making it worthy of praise. Considering that Panamera’s electric motor delivers 136 hp and 400 Nm in an instant, and the new 2.9-liter V6 biturbo is good for 330 hp and 450 Nm of torque, things could not be better – until you find out about the dual-clutch PDK transmission with eight gears.
Potential customers may also be interested to know that the company’s engineers have managed to improve upon the liquid-cooled, lithium-ion battery, which now delivers 14.1 kWh sans extra weight. Panamera’s Sport Chrono package comes as standard for this stunning hybrid version and the driver will have the privilege to select from six different driving modes.
In line with its character, this Porsche’s instrument binnacle features hybrid-specific displays, which seem to be inspired from the extraordinary 918 Spyder. The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid will make its official debut at the upcoming Paris Auto Show, with US fans having to wait for one until next summer – no clue about the price-tag, yet.
