DRIVEN: Porsche Panamera GTS blends sporty dynamics with executive comfort
The Panamera GTS offers burbly V8 power to those who can't stretch to a Turbo.
Image: Supplied
The Porsche Panamera continues to occupy an interesting niche in the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer’s line-up.
Though not a popular option, it fulfils a need for those seeking a more practical Porsche, which is not an SUV.
The Panamera sits low to the ground, even compared to most sedans, fostering a sense of oneness with the road, which many drivers simply don’t get to experience these days. That said, if you don’t like the idea of most other vehicles towering above you, then the Panamera is not for you.
The third-generation Panamera, introduced in 2024, is a handsome beast too, at least in our humble opinion. It’s certainly come a long way since that awkwardly proportioned first-generation version.
Its fastback proportions have matured further in the third generation.
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We recently spent a week with the newly launched Panamera GTS model, which many might argue represents the sweet spot in the range.
Priced from R3,181,000, it costs R928,000 more than the base Panamera, but brings burbly V8 power to the equation while also being over a million rand cheaper than the Panamera Turbo e-hybrid and a cool R1.6m less expensive than the Turbo S.
Its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 produces 368kW and 660Nm, which is enough to launch it from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds, according to factory claims. Power goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed PDK automated dual-clutch gearbox.
While not in the same league, performance-wise, as its more expensive Turbo S hybrid sibling, which delivers 575kW, the GTS still feels incredibly sprightly off the mark, with faultlessly smooth power delivery and gear changes to boot. The V8 emits a beautiful and burbly soundtrack, but with the cabin being so well insulated, it's not overly intrusive.
Handling is sublime, thanks to a reworked version of Porsche’s dual-chamber two-valve PASM air suspension and compared with the standard Panamera, it features reinforced anti-roll bars and a 10mm-lower stance. An electronically controlled PTV Plus differential lock distributes torque evenly between the wheels. Buyers seeking to take its agility to the next level can also opt for rear axle steering.
While the Panamera GTS is certainly fleet-footed for its size, the tuned suspension and 21-inch wheels do result in a slightly firm ride over harsher surfaces, but overall, we found the chassis to be well-balanced and almost certainly in tune with the desires of its target audience.
Bespoke sports seats are standard.
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The low-slung cabin of the Panamera has a cockpit-like feel, both in the front and rear sections, where a large central tunnel creates a feeling of separation between those on the left and those on the right.
Rear legroom is not particularly generous, particularly by executive saloon standards, but it’s something most owners will likely forgive it for, given the Panamera’s sporty orientation.
The 478 litre boot is large and shallow, but perfectly shaped for swallowing a set or two of golf clubs!
The cockpit area takes digitisation even further, with a new 12.6-inch curved digital instrument panel, a large 10.9-inch central touchscreen and an optional passenger screen, which is not visible to the driver for safety reasons.
Digital, but not overly digital.
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Thankfully, Porsche has retained physical climate controls, accessed via a separate panel below the central screen, and important functions such as the Drive Mode can be selected via the steering wheel in the good old Porsche tradition.
The snug cabin features suede-like Race-Tex upholstery for areas such as the door panels and roof lining, while the sports seats boast 18-way adjustment. Customers can also opt for GTS-specific interior colour packages, in the form of Carmine Red or Slate Grey Neo, and a Carbon Matt interior package is available too.
Standard features include a Bose sound system and the Sport Chrono Package with stopwatch and push-to-pass function.
VERDICT
The Porsche Panamera GTS strikes a rare balance between sports car performance and everyday practicality. Its low-slung stance, 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, and all-wheel-drive system deliver exciting acceleration and precise handling, while the reworked air suspension keeps the ride composed, if slightly firm over rough surfaces.
Its cockpit-like interior, driver-focused ergonomics, and quality materials underscore its sporty yet luxurious character.
Priced significantly below the Turbo S hybrid, it offers a compelling mix of power, poise, and Porsche pedigree. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re avoiding the SUV bandwagon and need a bit of space for the family, the Panamera is a compelling choice.
IOL Motoring