Porsche’s engineers gave our spy shooters a snowy spectacle with their driving antics in Sweden where they’re testing the second generation Panamera.

Due to go on sale late next year, possibly as a 2017MY for North America, Porsche’s new saloon will build on the qualities of the current model, improving its styling, reducing its mass, and adding new technologies.

Based on a new multi-material platform named MSB (for Modularer Standardantriebsbaukasten or Modular Standard Platform in English) that will also underpin other future VW Group models such as the next Audi A8 and the Bentley Continental lineup, the new Panamera will employ a number of weight saving measures to drop to under 1,900kg or 4,189 pounds.

A slightly longer wheelbase to improve rear passenger legroom will be offset by tighter front and rear overhangs to keep the next Panamera’s footprint at similar levels to the current model.

Porsche plans to polish up the Panamera’s polarizing looks with crispier styling details previewed on the shooting brake-style 2012 Panamera Sport Turismo concept and a sportier profile aided by the more steeply raked rear glass that gives it a more fastback-like appearance. You’ll still be able to tell that it’s a member of the Panamera family, but it should look more pleasing to the eye.

On the inside, it is understood that Porsche designers will reduce clutter on the upper and lower center consoles, while adding new comfort, safety and convenience features.

Under the hood, all engines are expected to be turbocharged and will include a new family of V6 and V8 gasoline units, together with V6 diesels, and possibly up to two different plug-in hybrids, one based around a petrol unit and the other a diesel.

All-wheel drive is expected to be offered across the range this time, while there are rumors about a new PDK dual clutch transmission.

Porsche officials have suggested that along with the fastback version, we could see an expanded range that may include a sporty estate and even a coupe model.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

Photo Gallery