Introduction:
The 2024 Porsche Panamera may not be as popular as Porsche’s SUVs or as futuristic as the Taycan, but it offers a unique luxury sedan experience that is quintessentially Porsche. With a base price of $108,550, the Panamera 4 is powered by a 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. Despite its slower acceleration to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, the Panamera 4 impresses with its comfortable ride quality, precise steering, and luxurious interior. However, there are some areas where the Panamera falls short of Porsche’s usual standards, such as the disappointing PDK transmission and the touchscreen controls. Overall, the 2024 Porsche Panamera offers a unique driving experience that sets it apart from other luxury sedans at its price point.
[tag] The air suspension is wizards’ work.
The standard air suspension in the Panamera 4 provides an exceptional balance between a comfortable ride and impeccable body control. Even with the standard air suspension and 20-inch wheels, the Panamera effortlessly traverses different road conditions, showcasing its impressive engineering and suspension tuning. While the Active Ride Suspension may offer even more advanced features, the standard air suspension delivers a superb driving experience that sets the Panamera apart from its competitors.
[tag] Wait, this is the slow one?
Despite being labeled as the base model, the Panamera 4’s acceleration to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds is nothing to scoff at. The all-wheel-drive system aids in launching the car off the line, further emphasizing its performance capabilities. While the rear-wheel-drive option may be preferred for driving enthusiasts, the Panamera 4 proves that even the “slowest” Panamera iteration offers impressive acceleration and driving dynamics that are sure to satisfy most drivers.
[tag] Not a great showing by PDK.
The Porsche dual-clutch automated manual transmission (PDK) in the Panamera 4 fails to live up to expectations, with delayed gear changes and a lack of responsiveness in certain driving situations. The absence of Porsche’s Sport+ mode, which typically enhances the driving experience, further detracts from the overall performance of the transmission. Additionally, the difficulty in keeping the transmission in manual mode limits driver engagement and control, highlighting a departure from Porsche’s usual standards of performance and driver involvement.
[tag] Wow is the steering good.
True to Porsche’s reputation for exceptional steering feel, the Panamera 4 delivers precise and communicative steering that enhances the driving experience. The lack of multiple steering settings and the comfortable feel of the steering wheel further emphasize Porsche’s commitment to driver-centric design and engineering. Whether navigating city streets or tackling winding canyon roads, the steering in the Panamera 4 proves to be one of its standout features, showcasing Porsche’s dedication to delivering a dynamic and engaging driving experience.
[tag] Drive elements now in touchscreen.
One of the Panamera’s downsides lies in its transition to touchscreen controls for various drive elements, such as suspension settings and exhaust notes. The elimination of physical buttons and the reliance on a touchscreen interface detracts from the intuitive and driver-focused design that Porsche is known for. By requiring drivers to navigate through menus on a touchscreen, the Panamera departs from the tactile and user-friendly experience that has defined Porsche’s interior layouts in the past. Retrofitting the center console with a more user-friendly controller or dial may enhance the overall user experience and maintain Porsche’s legacy of driver engagement and refinement.
Conclusion:
The 2024 Porsche Panamera 4 offers a distinctive luxury sedan experience that combines Porsche’s performance heritage with refined comfort and style. While the Panamera may not have the same mass appeal as Porsche’s SUVs or the cutting-edge technology of the Taycan, it excels in delivering a unique driving experience that is quintessentially Porsche. With its powerful V6 engine, comfortable air suspension, and precise steering, the Panamera 4 proves to be a capable and engaging luxury sedan. Despite some shortcomings in the transmission and interior controls, the Panamera 4 remains a compelling option for those seeking a luxury sedan that stands out from the crowd. As Porsche continues to refine its lineup and push the boundaries of automotive excellence, the Panamera remains a testament to the brand’s commitment to performance, luxury, and driving pleasure.