Last year Porsche chose the Shanghai Auto Show to launch its new Panamera sedan in S, 4S and Turbo trims and now the automaker is returning to China for the latest additions to its growing Panamera lineup. This April at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show we will see the launch of the new V-6 powered 2010 Porsche Panamera and Panamera 4.
Both models are powered by a brand-new 3.6-liter V-6 featuring direct-injection technology and a peak output of 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Panamera comes standard with rear-wheel drive but the Panamera 4 comes with all-wheel drive. The Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) dual clutch gearbox is also available, as is a six-speed manual.
Equipped with the PDK and an engine stop-start feature, the Panamera rates in at 25.3 mpg for the European combined cycle, while the Panamera 4 averages 24.5 mpg. Both V-6 versions of the Panamera fulfill the LEV standard. Roll resistance tires measuring in at 19 inches are available as an option to help further reduce fuel consumption. Additionally, the new V-6 engine is 66 pounds lighter than the V-8 found in the Panamera S and 4S, thus contributing to the lower overall weight of the Panamera of 3,815 pounds.
The V-6 powered Panameras also come standard with a conventional steel suspension set-up but are available with variable dampers and adaptive air suspension as an option.
The 2010 Porsche Panamera and Panamera 4 will go on sale in the U.S. this June priced from $74,400 and $78,900 respectively.
[Porsche]
