The second-generation Porsche Panamera was unveiled in 2016, so 2020 is the perfect time for a mid-cycle facelift. Porsche just unveiled the updated Panamera with extensive changes on the outside, a mildly upgraded interior, and a couple of new engines. Porsche also changed a couple of trim designations, replacing the old Turbo with a Turbo S model.

The 2021 Porsche Panamera looks sportier across the board

ids=930723,930724

no_overlay=false

before_label=2021 Porsche Panamera

after_label=2020 Porsche Panamera>


This means that all trim levels look a bit sportier now without having to open your wallet for an optional package. However, Porsche created a new SportDesign package just in case you want to take things up a notch. This bundle is available with or without carbon-fiber elements.

Arguably the most critical change beyond the SportDesign fascia is the continuous light strip in the rear. This feature comes straight from the latest-generation 911 and turns the taillights into a thin light bar that stretches the entire width of the rear fascia. The rear end also sports a revised diffuser with new fins.

The Turbo S model comes with larger air intakes in the front, as well as a unique headlamp lighting signature. The sporty GTS trim continues to feature Satin Black details and wheels, tinted taillights, and black lettering and model designations. All trims are available with new 20- and 21-inch wheels. Porsche also introduced two new colors: Cherry Red Metallic and Truffle Brown Metallic.

The 2021 Porsche Panamera remains about the same inside the cabin

Porsche didn't go through too much trouble to upgrade the interior, but this isn't an issue given that the Panamera was already one of the most comfortable, modern, and luxurious vehicles in its niche.

The German sedan continues to feature the big 12.3-inch touchscreen with extensive connectivity features and multi-function seats for all models. The hybrids come with eight-way adjustable seats, while the Turbo S model features 14-way adjustable comfort seats. The GTS comes with sportier seats that are 18-way adjustable. The new Turbo S model is also fitted with a 14-speaker, 710-watt audio system from Bose.

The 2021 Porsche Panamera brings new engines and Turbo S model

Porsche made substantial changes under the hood, starting with a new engine for the base model. The new engine cranks out 325 horsepower, a five-horsepower decrease compared to the old model, but this engine is supposed to be more efficient. It's just as quick, needing 5.3 seconds to hit 60 mph, but top speed is up from 163 to 168 mph.

2021 Porsche Panamera V-6 specifications

Design and cylinders

Twin-turbocharged V6

Displacement

2.9 l

Max. power

325 hp @ 5,400 - 6,400 rpm

Max. torque

331 lb-ft @ 1,800 - 5,000 rpm

Top track speed

168 mph

0 - 60 mph

5.3 s

0 - 60 mph with Sport Chrono Package

5.1 s


The Panamera Turbo model was discontinued to make way for the Turbo S. This trim features the familiar twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8 engine, but with changes to the crankshaft, connecting rods, timing chain drive, and torsional vibration dampers, as well as new fuel injectors and reduced compression ratio. The Turbo S hits 60 mph in 2.9 seconds with Launch Control, a half-second quicker than the old Turbo. Top speed also increased from 190 to 196 mph.

2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S specifications

Engine

Twin-turbocharged V8

Displacement

4.0 l

Max. power

620 hp @ 6,800 rpm

Max. torque

604 lb-ft @ 2,300 - 4,500 rpm

Top track speed

196 mph

0 - 60 mph with Sport Chrono Package

2.9 s


The Panamera GTS continues with the twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8, but power is up in the model too. Previously rated at 453 horsepower, the GTS now comes with 473 horses on tap. Torque remains locked at 457 pound-feet. Porsche says this model also features retuned throttle calibration "to resemble the responsiveness and finesse of a naturally aspirated engine."

2021 Porsche Panamera GTS specifications

Engine

Twin-turbocharged V8

Displacement

4.0 l

Max. power

473 hp @ 6,500 rpm

Max. torque

457 lb-ft @ 1,800 - 4,000 rpm

Top track speed

186 mph

0 - 60 mph with Sport Chrono Package

3.7 s


Finally, Porsche replaced the 4 E-Hybrid model with the 4S E-Hybrid trim. It features the same 2.9-liter V-6 and electric motor layout as its predecessor, but it's significantly more powerful. Specifically, total output is now 552 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, up from 462 horses and 516 pound-feet of twist. The hybrid sprints to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, a full second quicker than the old model, and charges up to 185 mph - 12 mph more than the previous version. In short, its performance is similar to the outgoing Panamera Turbo.

2021 Porsche Panamera 4S E-Hybrid specifications

Engine

Twin-turbocharged V6

Displacement

2.9 l

Max. power

443 hp @ 5,750 - 6,600 rpm

Max. engine speed

6,800 rpm

Max. torque

405 lb-ft @ 1,900 - 5,750 rpm

Max. power electric motor

134 hp

Max. torque electric motor

295 lb-ft

Max. power combined

552 hp

Max. torque combined

553 lb-ft

Top track speed

185 mph

0 - 60 mph with Sport Chrono Package

3.5 s


Porsche also added a new battery with 27-percent larger capacity, up to 17.9 kWh from 14.1, and recalibrated the drive modes to enhance both performance and efficiency. These changes likely apply to the range-topping Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid too.

The 2021 Porsche Panamera goes on sale early next year

The revised Panamera will go on sale in early 2021, while U.S. deliveries will begin in Spring 2021. Pricing information is not yet available, but expect premium across the board. The outgoing model starts from $87,200 in base trim, $129,300 in GTS trim, and from $153,000 in Turbo trim. The hybrids come in at $103,800 before options.

The 2021 Porsche Panamera is available in three body styles

You can buy the Panamera in the same three body styles as the outgoing model. There's the familiar five-door liftback (some would call it a sedan), the Executive model with the longer wheelbase, and the Sport Turismo, a five-door station wagon/shooting brake.