Porsche Panamera 4S E-Hybrid Review: The Best Kept Secret of Porsche

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      Have you ever engaged a diehard Porsche enthusiast in a conversation about cars that aren’t Porsches? No? That’s not part of their approach. Sure, there might be a brief mention of a competitor that offers a similar experience, but for the true enthusiasts, it’s like the old saying: “There is no substitute.” Not that I would know; I had never driven one until recently. That changed last month when I finally got to experience the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid. Did it live up to the expectations? My quick answer is that the loyalists may have a point.

      I can already hear some questioning whether a Panamera qualifies as a genuine Porsche. Since the debut of the first Cayenne, there’s been a perception that four doors are excessive for a true Porsche. However, after an awkward initial period for the Panamera, I contend that the large sedan (which once was offered as a wagon) has forged a reputation for performance and comfort that aligns well with the brand’s values. These days, it stands out like a rare gem from your favorite band's catalog. It will never capture the spirit of the 911 or 718, or sell as well as the SUVs, nor flaunt its technological features like the Taycan. Is the Panamera as dynamic as the sports cars? Probably not, but it can accomplish tasks they cannot. And it does so in a truly exceptional manner.

      The Essentials

      If you're not familiar with the current Panamera lineup, I can't blame you. There are now seven models available, ranging from the base Panamera starting at $108,550 to the Turbo S E-Hybrid priced at $232,950, and various configurations including the number “4” scattered throughout. The all-wheel-drive 4S E-Hybrid is situated in the middle, with a starting price of $133,350; my model had a total cost of $150,985. The approximately $17,000 in optional features was mostly well invested, for reasons I'll detail later. But first, let’s clarify what sets the 4S E-Hybrid apart from the others.

      The standard Panamera is equipped with a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 348 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque, an engine that has been a staple of the Panamera line for some time. The E-Hybrid enhances this with a 188-hp electric motor that, unlike its predecessor, is now integrated within the eight-speed PDK transmission’s casing to minimize weight. This results in a total output of 536 hp and 533 lb-ft in a sedan weighing 5,068 pounds. In gas-only variants like the GTS and Turbo E-Hybrid, the V6 is replaced by a V8, pushing output up to 771 hp—not that I was in need of more power. The hybrids can also operate for approximately 40 miles solely on electric power, achieving speeds of up to 87 mph.

      This third version of the Panamera remains relatively new, having debuted last year, but shares many elements with the previous generation introduced back in 2014. The similarities are evident inside and outside. They share nearly identical profiles, but the bumpers and lights have been redesigned, and the old physical instrument cluster and manual climate vents have been exchanged for a screen and software. While I usually dislike such changes, Porsche’s digital gauge design is quite appealing, and I was unexpectedly unbothered by the computer-controlled vents.

      If you reflect on these updates and think, “This looks like a gas-powered Taycan,” you wouldn’t be alone in that observation. I find the Panamera’s exterior appealing, but when compared to Porsche’s first electric vehicle, the advantages of not having to accommodate a large engine in front of the driver are apparent. The Panamera presents a clean and tasteful appearance, although it can appear somewhat awkward from various angles. It’s certainly not the unsightly model it was at launch, yet it’s hard to envision it being anyone’s top choice.

      Experiencing the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid

      Undoubtedly, the 4S E-Hybrid is fast, and its powertrain deserves some of the credit. The twin-turbo V6 might not be groundbreaking, and you might find it hard to recall its sound while driving, yet it operates smoothly, and the 8-speed PDK is highly responsive. If you're viewing the Panamera as a luxury vehicle, it certainly exceeds expectations. If you seek thrilling acceleration, I would imagine that V8 would deliver that sensation.

      However, to me, what makes this Panamera stand out isn’t the power; it’s the ride quality. For that, we can thank Porsche Active Ride, a $7,150 option on my vehicle. Yes, that's quite a bit of money, but trust