Item: 2017 Porsche Panamera
Rating: 7.14
Author: Nathan Dyer

Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide

7.1

Overall Rating

The 2017 Porsche Panamera takes the captivating performance the Porsche brand is known for and blends it with the practical packaging of a hatchback sedan- Carfax

For this second generation, Porsche started with a clean sheet of paper. Not only is the styling all-new but so are the engines, chassis, and interior. As transformations go, this is a big one. Both its engines offer superb performance while the ride quality is serene. The cabin is luxurious and feels nothing less than its price. With high practicality, the Panamera is one of the unique choices in this segment.

Compared to its rivals, the Panamera's ownership costs are greater as its maintenance and repair costs are higher and it depreciates quicker too. However, it has good resale values than its rivals. You may have to shell out around $16,700 every year which includes all kinds of costs. Also, due to its inefficient engine, the cost to drive per mile in the Panamera is $1.17, which is slightly more than its rivals.

7.3/10
Engine and Performance

7.1/10
Fuel Economy

8.6/10
Interior

8.0/10
Exterior

6.0/10
Safety

6.0/10
Competition

Features

The options list is extensive, ranging from conventional items to customization features- Autotrader

The 2017 Porsche Panamera has just two trims- Base and 4S but there are five different variants available depending on the drivetrain and wheelbase. There are plenty of fast luxury sedans on the market and none of them are cheap. The Panamera starts at $85,000 and even then it doesn't come with many of the features. Therefore, don't visit a Porsche dealer with light pockets.

Only the base Panamera is an RWD car while the rest of the cars come standard with an AWD drivetrain. The optional $2,270 Sport Chrono package helps to increase the speed by two-tenth. It also adds a knob to the steering wheel which lets you cycle through the car's driving modes. Likewise, there are many options available for the Panamera but you will end up with endless charges.

Trims	Base	4	4 Executive	4S	4S Executive
MSRP (RWD)	$85,000	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
MSRP (AWD)	N/A	$89,600	$96,300	$99,900	$113,900
Features	LED headlights	Adds/ Upgrades to Base trim	Adds/ Upgrades to 4 trim	Adds/ Upgrades to 4 trim	Adds/ Upgrades to 4S trim
	Power panoramic moonroof	AWD system	Adds 5.9 inches of wheelbase	Active sports exhaust system	Adds 5.9 inches of wheelbase
	Power tailgate
	8-way power front leather, heated seats
	10-speaker Hifi sound system
	Ambient lighting
	Wi-Fi hotspot
	Dual-zone automatic climate control
	12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay

We Recommend

The base Panamera model will satisfy more buyers as it comes with a decent list of standard features. We also recommend opting for the Night Vision Assist for $2,159, Park Assist package for $1,012, Porsche Active Safe that includes forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control for $1,448, and Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management for $1,858.

Engine and Performance

7.3/10

Remarkably smooth and responsive, its exhaust note a muted, oily snarl, the Panamera 4S' engine might just be the best V-6 in the world- MotorTrend

2017 Porsche Panamera Engine and Transmission

The entry-level Porsche Panamera gets a 3.0L turbo V6 engine that churns out 330 hp and 331 lb-ft. of torque. The 4S trim upgrades to a 2.9L twin-turbo V8 engine for an output of 440 hp and 405 lb-ft. of torque. That's plenty of power for people who love going fast. All models come with Porsche's excellent 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The power is driven to rear wheels as standard while the AWD system is available.

But, the Executive models come standard with the AWD system only. What's impressive about this engine is the fact that this car's total torque is available at just 1,340 RPM. That means when you prop the throttle, the power is always there. The dual-clutch automatic provides seamless and quick shifts to deliver that power. The sports exhaust system crackles and snarls when you rev harder. It really just encourages you to drive it faster.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
MSRP	$85,000	$81,500	$82,500	$74,400
Engine	3.0L Turbo V6	3.0L Turbo Inline-6	3.0L Supercharged V6	3.0L Supercharged V6
Drivetrain	RWD	RWD	AWD	RWD
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic
Power	330 hp @ 5,400 RPM	320 hp @ 5,500 RPM	333 hp @ 5,300 RPM	340 hp @ 6,500 RPM
Torque	331 lb-ft. @ 1,340 RPM	332 lb-ft. @ 1,380 RPM	325 lb-ft. @ 2,900 RPM	332 lb-ft. @ 3,500 RPM

Making slightly more power than the Panamera, the Jaguar XJ is the most inexpensive option in this competition. The Audi A8 is similarly powered as the Panamera and is the only car here with a standard AWD system. Also, both these cars use a supercharger meaning there is no lag and power delivery is consistent. On the other hand, the BMW 7 Series uses a turbocharged engine like the Panamera but is a bit less powerful.

2017 Porsche Panamera Acceleration

Because this is a Porsche, performance is paramount. The entry-level Panamera making 330 horses is punchy enough to jump from 0-60 MPH in 5 seconds while the quarter-mile mark is completed in 13.5 seconds with a top speed of 167 MPH. The more powerful 4S trim completes the same task in about 3.8 seconds only. That's really quick for a 4001-pound car.

However, speed lovers will definitely love the Panamera Turbo that can race to 60 MPH in flat 3 seconds. When you prod your foot on the throttle, you're not held back into your seat. Instead, you just effortlessly glide towards the horizon and in doing so pick up some extraordinary speed. The way this car picks up speed is nothing short remarkable.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
0-60 MPH	5.0 sec	5.4 sec	5.6 sec	5.5 sec
Quarter Mile	13.5 sec	13.8 sec	14.1 sec	14.0 sec
Engine	3.0L	3.0L	3.0L	3.0L
Top Speed	167 MPH	155 MPH	155 MPH	155 MPH

The Panamera is the top contender in this segment and its low curb weight plays a key role. The athletic nature of the BMW 7 Series helps it to achieve good acceleration. Despite making more power, the Jaguar XJ does not outperform the Panamera but is quick enough to surpass the Audi A8 in both performance tests by a millisecond.

2017 Porsche Panamera Ride and Handling

When you are cruising, the Porsche Panamera is a class of its own. the ride comfort is remarkable on standard 19-inch wheels. It just glides effortlessly over bumps and potholes even on the larger 21-inch wheels. The optional adaptive air suspensions just smooth out the ride and never feels choppy. Despite an amazing ride quality, the Panamera can still thrill and delight in the corners.

The body control is taut when the vehicle speeds up. The way the Panamera corners is seriously impressive for a 4001-pound car. It seems to have all the grip in the world with the AWD system. The steering feels heavy and not particularly direct. It's fine but for a four-door sports car, the steering could be a little bit more feel and give a bit more feedback.

2017 Porsche Panamera Braking

The brakes in the Porsche Panamera are astounding. Every Panamera is fitted with 13.8-inch ventilated discs in the front and 13-inch ventilated discs at the back. These brakes are strong enough to halt this vehicle from 60-0 MPH in 113 feet. That's a decent braking distance for a car of this size. These brakes also come with a brake drying feature that helps to stop the car in panic situations especially when the brakes are wet.

They do not fade on repeated use and take about the same braking distance every time while testing. You can also upgrade to Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) for the best braking performance in this segment but that comes with a hefty price tag of $7,616. The brakes are soft and very responsive. The short and linear braking action tends to urge drivers to drive their Panamera at speed.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
Brake Front	13.8 in	17.7 in	15.0 in	14.0 in
Brake Rear	13.0 in	14.5 in	14.0 in	12.8 in
Curb Weight	4,001 lbs	4,195 lbs	4,464 lbs	3,913 lbs
60-0 MPH	113 ft.	112 ft.	118 ft.	122 ft.

The BMW 7 Series is just ahead of the Panamera by one foot but still, that impressive as it weighs more comparatively. Despite being the bulkiest among the lot, the Audi A8 manages to score a decent braking distance. But, the brakes in the Jaguar XJ are weak and hence, take the longest braking distance.

Fuel Economy

7.1/10

The Panamera's gas mileage won’t haunt ethical drivers- The Car Connection

Although Porsche completely changed the Panamera for 2017, it couldn't improve one thing, its efficiency. Its fuel ratings are on par with other luxury cars in its class but it is least efficient. In normal form, the Panamera returns 21 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on a highway, and 24 MPG combined. The AWD models drop down the combined mileage by 1 MPG.

Every Panamera comes fitted with a 23.7-gallon fuel tank, which is the largest in this segment. Owing to this large tank, the Panamera manages to deliver up to 581 miles, both in RWD and AWD models. Compared to its rivals, the Panamera offers class-leading city and highway ranges. Therefore, the Panamera is the best travel companion for long journeys.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
MPG (City)	21	21	19	18
MPG (Highway)	28	29	29	27
MPG (Combined)	24	24	22	21
Fuel Tank Capacity	23.7	20.6	21.7	21.7
Range (City/Highway/Combined)	498/664/581	433/597/515	412/629/520	391/586/488

The engine in the BMW 7 Series is the most efficient thanks to its auto start-stop engine feature. The fuel ratings of the Audi A8 and the Jaguar XJ are almost similar but the former being slightly more efficient, delivers the second-best range in this competition. The large fuel tank of the Panamera saves the day.

Interior

8.6/10

The 2017 Panamera's dashboard is an inviting combination of old and new- Edmunds

2017 Porsche Panamera Seating and Comfort

One of the biggest changes can be easily found in the Porsche Panamera's cabin as it is a bold vision of Porsche's future. The build quality is absolutely flawless. It's not the execution that's flawless but also the design. Once inside, you will notice that there are only four seats and those seats are buckets that are comfortable and really hold you snuggly in place. The leather is so rich and supple and it covers nearly every surface of the car. The front seats are 8-way power-adjustable with standard heated function but ventilated and massaged seats are an option.

With the Panamera, the back seats have always been just as important as the front seats, and in this new car, it gets even better because there's more space on offer. There's more legroom and the headroom is pretty good too despite the sloping roofline. But, if you are the type of person who thinks it is too cramped for you, there is also an Executive version that adds an extra 5.9 inches of wheelbase for more legroom. Also, if you do go for the Executive version, you can have picnic tables that fold out and screens at the back of the front seats, making your Panamera feel just like a Bentley.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
Passenger Capacity	4	5	4	5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	N/A	39.9/59.2/41.4	37.2/59.1/41.4	39.5/57.6/41.5
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	N/A	38.9/57.7/44.4	39.1/57.8/42.9	37.2/56.6/38.9

Like the Panamera, even the Audi A8 is a four-seater sedan while the BMW 7 Series and the Jaguar XJ can seat up to five people. The latter offers the least head and legroom in this competition and therefore, taller occupants can find this uncomfortable. On the flip side, the cabin of the 7 Series is the roomiest here thanks to its wide wheelbase.

2017 Porsche Panamera Infotainment System

Upfront, you will notice 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment that looks absolutely fantastic and features Apple CarPlay only. The interface has been improved a lot and the touch responses are quick too. The screen senses when your hand is near and operates incredibly intuitively. using this screen, you can activate the sports exhaust, raise or lower the car and lift the rear spoiler. The old car's heavy center console has been replaced by a really slick-looking unit. Everything on the center stack is touch-sensitive and provides a little bumping sensation when you press a switch.

A 10-speaker Hifi sound system is standard but the sound quality from the 21-speaker Burmester 3D surround system is heaven for audiophiles. The Panamera's cockpit is a digital world. The multi-function driver's display is very much a case of old meets new because you get a traditional analog clock for the rev counter. But, to the sides, there are two 7-inch screens that can be configured to a variety of settings. They can show ordinary speed and traffic info. Roll your thumb on the steering wheel and you'll get navigation, G-force readouts, and night vision even in daylight.

2017 Porsche Panamera Interior Features

Some noticeable features of the Porsche Panamera's cabin are:

Tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
8-way power front leather, heated seats
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Push-button start
Ambient lighting
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Power panoramic moonroof
Wi-Fi hotspot
12.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay
10-speaker sound system
Navigation system

2017 Porsche Panamera Cargo Capacity

Cargo capacity is one of the strong points of the Porsche Panamera. The boot volume measures up to 17.4 cubic feet. If you want to make it larger, Porsche does fit the Panamera as standard 3-way folding seats. Folding the seats opens up 46 cubic feet, which is the best in the class. So, the Panamera is truly practical.

The square-shaped trunk also adds the advantage of storing more items. Despite being very space-age in the Panamera, Porsche has thought about practical things. The glovebox is large enough for a bottle of water and so are the door bins which is very nice for those long trips across the continent. However, the dual cupholders really east into space.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
Standard Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.)	17.4	18.2	14.2	15.2
Maximum Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.)	46.0	N/A	N/A	N/A

The hatchback design of the Panamera allows it to offer more cargo space than any other car in its class. However, for a sedan profile, the BMW 7 Series offers the most cargo space. Surprisingly, the Jaguar XF stands in third place while the Audi A8 turns out to be the least practical sedan in this segment.

Exterior

8.0/10

Porsche’s Panamera sports sedan for 2017 shares not a single panel with the outgoing model, yet it is immediately recognizable- Kelly Blue Book

2017 Porsche Panamera Dimensions and Weight

The new 2017 Panamera has a classic Porsche design, an evolution of a perfect theme. It's low-slung with short overhangs, delicate creases, and a sexy rear. Its Porsche heritage is proudly on display from any angle. It looks so much better than the previous generation's bloated body. It looks so much lighter thanks to the coved-out surfaces and you also get cool LED headlamps that are multi-segmented. The Panamera gets 19-inch alloy wheels but it can be upgraded to 20 and 21-inch wheels.

Moving to the side view, the Panamera looks a lot similar to the previous generation. The side sills look stylish and are functional for aerodynamic purposes. The short wheelbase of the Panamera cuts of rear legroom but helps it to burn out extremely fast. The biggest difference in this year's Panamera's styling is the taillights. The thin light bar connecting the tail lamps is like that in the 911 Carrera 4 and Targa 4 models. Down below, you get a quad exhaust setup, and with the 4S, it's a sport exhaust system.

Models	2017 Porsche Panamera	2017 BMW 7 Series	2017 Audi A8	2017 Jaguar XJ
Curb Weight (lbs.)	4,001	4,195	4,464	3,913
Length (in)	198.8	206.6	207.3	202.0
Width (in)	76.3	74.9	76.7	74.8
Height (in)	56.0	58.2	57.9	57.5
Ground Clearance (in)	4.7	5.3	4.9	4.1
Wheelbase (in)	116.1	126.4	122.9	119.4
Track Width (in) F/R	65.8/65.0	63.5/64.6	64.7/64.4	64/63.1

The BMW 7 Series has the widest wheelbase with 10 inches more than the Panamera. This means more rear passenger space. At 4.1 inches, the Jaguar XJ has the lowest ground clearance so, therefore, getting in and out of the vehicle can be easy. The Audi A8 is the bulkiest vehicle in this competition and hence, it pays a toll on its performance.

2017 Porsche Panamera Exterior Features

Some of the cool exterior features of the Porsche Panamera are:

LED headlights, taillights & DRLs
Power-folding, auto-dimming, heated exterior mirrors
Black grille with active grille shutters
Black window trim
Rear adjustable roofline spoiler
19,20 & 21-inch wheels
Quad exhaust tips

Safety

6.0/10

Due to its high price tag, the Porsche Panamera did not undergo crash tests for the sake of safety ratings by NHTSA and IIHS. Therefore, the safety ratings are not available. The second-generation Panamera's body structure uses a mixture of aluminum and high-strength steel. This hybrid construction saves 144 pounds of weight and also increases torsional rigidity by about 8 percent.

When it comes to driver assistance features, the Panamera is nicely equipped. Of course, the base model comes with limited standard features but the best part is that even the base model is eligible for upgrading to all the driver aids available in top trims through optional packages. Some of the safety features available in the Panamera are mentioned below:

Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Rearview Camera
Lane Change Assist
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Keep Assist
360-degree Parking Camera
Forward Collision Warning
Road Sign Recognition
Adaptive Cruise Control
Night Vision Camera
Lane Departure Warning

Competition

6.0/10

2017 Porsche Panamera vs 2017 BMW 7 Series

Priced less than the Panamera, the BMW 7 Series is the closest competitor to the latter, performance-wise. Its athletic handling is satisfying but the Panamera offers excellent driving dynamics. In terms of fuel economy, the 7 Series is more efficient. Its cabin seats five people (Panamera seats only four) and offers an extensive list of standard features. But, the Panamera wins extra points with its outstanding practicality. Both the sedans are not rated for safety but the 7 Series packs slightly more driver aids.

2017 Porsche Panamera vs 2017 Audi A8

The Audi A8 is the only vehicle that offers a standard AWD system. Although similarly powered, its heavy curb weight makes it lag in terms of performance. Both the cars are equally luxurious and spacious but the Panamera's cabin feels modern. The infotainment setup in the A8 is more distracting to use while the features feel dated. Also, the cargo space offered by the A8 is the least in this segment. When it comes to safety, both the sedans are equipped with top driver-assist features.

2017 Porsche Panamera vs 2017 Jaguar XJ

Starting at $74,400, the Jaguar XJ is the cheapest car in this segment. It is slightly more powerful than the Panamera but still, its acceleration is slower. Its fuel estimates are also less than the Panamera. Moving to the interior, the XJ offers limited head and legroom in the rear row while the cargo capacity is also on the downside too. Also, the technological features are inferior and could use some updates. On the bright side, the XJ offers as many driver assistance features as the Panamera.

Final Verdict

The 2017 Porsche Panamera takes comfort and speed to a whole new level. It has mind-blowing performance and along with the new technology inside, it's a seriously desirable piece of kit. It takes extraordinary money to buy the new Panamera and there isn't any other car like it that's really worth the sticker price, ultra-fast, decadent, beautiful, and perfectly balanced. Porsche has a racing pedigree and high resale values. So, if you want a true four-door sports car, this is it.

Important 2017 Porsche Panamera Links:

2017 Porsche Panamera FAQs

Is the 2017 Porsche Panamera reliable?

Although there are no ratings to back up the Porsche Panamera's reliability, the brand has earned a reputation to produce reliable vehicles.

Does Porsche Panamera have massaged seats?

Yes, massage front seats are an option in the Porsche Panamera.

How fast is the 2017 Porsche Panamera?

The 2017 Porsche Panamera can do 0-60 in 5 seconds with the base engine equipped while the top speed ranges up to 167 MPH.

Is the Porsche Panamera expensive to maintain?

Yes, it is. Its yearly maintenance costs can go up to $2,700.

Does the Porsche Panamera have air suspension?

All the Panameras come standard with an air suspension for serene ride quality.

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Luxurious midsize sedan

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sports sedan with amazing performance,

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Pros

Cons

What's New?

2017 Porsche Panamera Consumer Reviews and Ratings

2017 Porsche Panamera Reviews

Luxurious midsize sedan

Pros - Authoritative acceleration, sporty handling, futuristic interior, impressive engine, balanced ride and handling.

Cons - Nothing as of now

My stylish Panamera!!

Pros - Stylish and classy exterior design, Turbo V6 engine performance, Good gas mileage

Cons - Limited visibility, Expensive maintenance, Distracting dashboard controls

sports sedan with amazing performance,

Pros - Enviable exterior looks, authoritative acceleration, sporty handling, refined interior design with latest technology.

Cons - Phenomenally expensive and the infotainment system is not upto the mark.

Trims

4$89,600 onwards

4 Executive$96,300 onwards

4S$99,900 onwards

4S Executive$113,900 onwards

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vehicle bio

base price

body style

engine type

displacement

horse power

torque

transmission

dimensions

length

wheelbase

width

curb weight

Height

Ground Clearance

capacity

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cargo volume

passenger capacity

fuel economy

city/combined/highway

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Ratings

Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide

7.1

Features

We Recommend

Also Read:

Engine and Performance

2017 Porsche Panamera Engine and Transmission

2017 Porsche Panamera Acceleration

2017 Porsche Panamera Ride and Handling

2017 Porsche Panamera Braking

Also Read:

Fuel Economy

Also Read:

Interior

2017 Porsche Panamera Seating and Comfort

2017 Porsche Panamera Infotainment System

2017 Porsche Panamera Interior Features

2017 Porsche Panamera Cargo Capacity

Also Read:

Exterior

2017 Porsche Panamera Dimensions and Weight

2017 Porsche Panamera Exterior Features

Safety

Competition

2017 Porsche Panamera vs 2017 BMW 7 Series

2017 Porsche Panamera vs 2017 Audi A8

2017 Porsche Panamera vs 2017 Jaguar XJ

Final Verdict

Important 2017 Porsche Panamera Links: