Drive Time – 2024 Porsche Panamera 4
Let us count the ways this ride separates itself from the crowded SUV/Crossover segment. Seriously, who wouldn’t entertain a cargo sensibility mated with Porsche sportiness? I’m a huge fan.
Skin
The 2024 Panamera 4’s sexy streamlined silhouette possesses some delicious Porsche genes – especially with the brand’s fabulous HD-Matrix Design LED headlights and new brake taillight strip. The front is unmistakably Porsche, with the tester looking fabulous in shimmering Carrara White Metallic paint and tasteful contrasting black trim.
Sightlines offer a fresh, appealing appearance from any angle and the rear includes quad-chrome exhausts. The sleek roofline delivers rakish styling especially with the virtually hidden hatch. Included is a terrific working rear spoiler you can engage or retract while driving.
The exclusive “21” Panamera Exclusive designed rims complete the terrific appearance. Yet that thin performance rubber wonderfully soaks up asphalt imperfections even in aggressive Sport mode.
Performance
Porsche is still all about performance and handling, and Panamera 4 is no slouch. A terrific eight-speed transmission, coupled with a spirited 2.9-liter twin turbocharged six-cylinder with 348hp/368lb.ft torque, delivers 0-60 in 4.7 seconds and 168 mph top speed. That’s plenty of juice for just about anyone’s liking. It feels quick with zero turbo lag, providing the glorious feedback one expects from the brand. I’d certainly look at the optional Sport Exhaust System (price not available) to raise the goosebump level (you can turn it off when getting home late).
Capable standard All-Wheel-Drive is rear-wheel bias but leans on the front in slippery conditions. You can also monitor the torque ratios on the front and rear axles in the dash. The 16-foot length Panamera handles like a dream in either Comfort or Sport modes when combined with the new adaptive air-spring suspension. I was smitten with how it smoothed the rough pothole-strewn North Texas streets.
Braking is confident, and a handy Auto Hold feature allows you to lift off the brake during idling – a welcome benefit when stopping on a steep grade. Despite the sporting heritage, it cruises admirably on long drives while passing nearly anything with a flick of the gas pedal. So. Much. Fun.
You can opt to disengage the Auto Stop feature. Sport modes tighten the steering, suspension and extends the gear shifts. To me, it’s when the Porsche genes really shine. Mileage range is a stupendous 550+ miles at 18/25. I squeezed 26 mpg on the highway.
Cabin
The Panamera 4 possesses Porsche’s upscale, sporty interior. Fit, finish and materials are all top-notch. Creature comforts abound, and the scented double-stitched Dark Night Blue/Limestone Beige cowhide leather add to the allure. Attractive trim (tasteful Eucalyptus Wood and golden Neodyne accents) is abundant. The heated sport steering wheel feels just right. The programmable instrumentation is clear, easy to read and customize.
Comfy yet supportive 14-way heated and cooled seats (with seven massage settings for front passengers) are a dream after a long day on the course. Air vent direction is customized via the touchscreen. Nice touch.
For a sports sedan, headroom is darn generous under the sleek roofline—even in the backseat with plenty of leg and elbow room. An expansive dual-powered Panoramic Roof illuminates the interior with a power sunshade. Visibility is good for this category. The rear window is narrow, but ample sideview mirrors are excellent. Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interfacing are standard.
Gone is Porsche’s customary left-hand ignition key … replaced with a starter button. In addition, previous customers will notice the disappearance of the console’s previous array of control buttons as most commands require interfacing with a large touchscreen. Finally, the gearshift toggle moves from the console to the dash right of the steering wheel – which does free up console room for drink holders and wireless charging.
The crystal-clear HD touchscreen infotainment is terrific and responds quickly. A newly designed 12.6” dash screen, 12.3” infotainment screen and optional screen for the front passenger is darn cool. Voice activation is terrific when you’d rather not maneuver through the touchscreen.
Cargo room is ample with 17.4 cu. ft enlarging to 46.9 cu. ft with the rear seats folded. The vast area and large opening hatch can carry plenty of golf bags.
Tech Check
Adaptive Cruise Control allows for relaxed driving. I’d get the $4,400 Assistance Package including 4-Zone Climate Control, Head Up Display and Night Vision Assist. The $7,100 Premium Package adds massaging seats, Surround View camera, rear heated seats and Bose Surround Sound. The audio is excellent and supports Spotify streaming.
Yes, the options add up quickly, but customers in this market will no doubt justify the cost increase and the pricing is comparable to its peers.
The typical necessary safety features abound to keep you from harm’s way.
The 2024 Porsche Panamera 4 is what the driving enthusiast should contemplate when requiring useful storage, welcome luxury, along with sublime sporty driving chops in a grand touring ride. If you’ve always yearned for a Porsche, this is a great place to start.
SCORECARD
Golf Bags: More than two with the rear seats down
Curb Appear: A practical Porsche!
0-60: 4.7 seconds
Mileage: 18/25. Observed 26 on the highway
Must-Haves: Sport Exhaust System (when available), Assistance/Premium packages
Warranty: 4yr/50K miles + complimentary maintenance 1yr/10K miles
Base Price: $106,900
Price as Tested: $133,070
Who Buys It: Those desiring Porsche driving performance and cargo capability
Finish Line: A sexy sports sedan with impeccable fun and room for your stuff
To test-drive the 2024 Porsche Panamera 4, contact Pete Hodges at 214-525-5408 at Park Place Porsche Dallas.