Spy Shots: 2009 Porsche Panamera

Porsche’s upcoming Panamera sedan has been caught by spy photographers undergoing testing in Gothenburg, Sweden, this time with barely any camouflage. Previous test mules have been spotted on parts of the German Autobahn as well as the Nürburgring circuit undergoing high-speed testing. Judging by the images, it appears that the Panamera is near production ready, but it’s not scheduled to be unveiled officially until the first half of 2009 at the Geneva Motor Show.

The bulbous rear end is expected to accommodate up to 450L of storage, while the interior will likely have seating capacity for up to five passengers. The engines on offer should include a 300hp V6, a 350hp naturally aspirated V8 motor and a 560hp twin-turbo V8 powerplant for a flagship ‘S’ model.

There are also rumors of a hybrid model, but sources are yet to confirm this.

Porsche expects to sell up to 20,000 Panameras per year, but with the upcoming Rapide from Aston Martin and possible sedans with coupe-styling from most of the German labels, the sportscar maker will be facing an uphill battle. Follow the jump to see even more "up close and personal" images of the Panamera test mule.

[Source: Auto Motor & Sport Sweden]