We’re really hopeful that Porsche is going to get the design right for the next Panamera, even though, the current model is so talented that not all people care what it looked like. The all-new model is currently midway through its development cycle and promises to be lighter, more efficient and just as sporty as we’ve come to expect.
Autocar has the low-down on what it’s going to be like, after sitting down with Porsche board member Wolfgang Hatz, who is also the VW group’s head of engine and transmissons.
They learned that the next Panamera won’t feature a carbon tub, because that tech is still some ten years away from mass production. Even so, weight saving measures will be employed and the model will weigh no more than 1,900 kg or 4,190 lbs. This, in spite of the fact that it’s reportedly going to be more luxurious with more kit on it and a longer wheelbase; overhangs will be smaller, though.
Styling-wise, you’ll apparently be able to recognize it’s the new Panamera, but we’re assured it will look better. One exterior design detail that was shared regarded the angle of the rear glass, which will be more steeply raked, giving it a more fastback-like profile.
The interior will also suffer notable modifications. Porsche is apparently planning to move some of the functions operated by the (plethora of) switches and buttons on the center console to a touchscreen.
Finally, regarding possible alternate variants of the Panamera, like a drop-top or a coupe, Hatz said they are not out of the question, but that Porsche needs to recover from the effort of making the Macan and 918 Spyder first, before looking at more models.
Note: Sport Turismo concept pictured
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