Coinciding with the arrival of Porsche’s new Panamera sedan later this year will be a new version of the automaker’s infotainment system, known as Porsche Communication Management (PCM).

At the heart of the new system is a large touchscreen display located in the center stack, which enables users to control many of the vehicle functions. For the first time, users will be able to customize the startup screen as well as widgets for frequently-used functions.

The new PCM system also improves connectivity with the outside world thanks to a more powerful version of Porsche Connect, which provides smartphone integration (including Apple CarPlay), a Wi-Fi hotspot, remote access, navigation with real-time traffic updates, and call center support.

Most of these services will be offered via three packages that can be used free of charge within a certain time period.

2017 Porsche Panamera

2017 Porsche Panamera

Car Connect: This package provides users with remote access to their car either via a smartphone or an Apple Watch. For example, you could lock the car, check its mileage, find it in a carpark, or turn on the climate control system.

Navigation and Infotainment: This package relates to those features that enable users to make better use of their time during the journey and arrive more quickly at their destination. Some of the services include location search, real-time traffic updates, Google Earth and Google Street View access, and even a service to check flight times.

Connect App: This package is aimed at improving integration of a smartphone with the car via the Porsche Connect App, which can be downloaded for free from iTunes or the Google Play Store. One of the most useful functions is transferring calendar information to the car. For example, appointments can be displayed and navigation can be launched with saved destinations. The Connect App also offers music streaming functions.

The new Panamera goes on sale later this year as a 2017 model. Only the 4S and Turbo models will be available at launch, with prices starting at $100,950.