Starting MSRP $75,200–$173,200
MPG City: 15 – 18 Highway: 23 – 27
Available Engines
300-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 (premium)
540-hp, 4.8-liter V-8 (premium)
400-hp, 4.8-liter V-8 (premium)
550-hp, 4.8-liter V-8 (premium)
500-hp, 4.8-liter V-8 (premium)
Transmissions
7-speed auto-shift manual w/OD and auto-manual
2012 PORSCHE PANAMERA
Zero to 60: IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE: No, it's a Porsche Hybrid. (Similar to those though)
Combining the sport car design with hybrid technology seems to be the next move for most automotive manufacturers, and
Let's dive a little deeper...
Three60: IT'S ALL ABOUT THE DETAIL
The electric motor in the Panamera is capable of full electric driving for short distances. It has moderate acceleration capabilities and top speeds of 75mph. The combustion engine is automatically decoupled by the separating clutch and able to be switched off. The car is equipped with an “e-Power” button, that when pushed extends the electric range of the vehicle. This feature allows the accelerator pedal characteristics to adapt so the combustion engine makes a later switch. There is also an “e-Boost” function to ensure quicker acceleration and more flexibility. The auto start/stop feature of the vehicle also automatically switches off the combustion engine in stopped traffic to save fuel. This
a winning move at that for Porsche, who have released their new 2012 Panamera S Hybrid. It is visually the same as the Panamera S (plus the hybrid logos on the vehicle, of course!) with the exception that the Hybrid comes standard with a rear windshield wiper. Relatively few outer differences, but of course the true magic lies under the hood: the hybrid version of the Panamera contains a 3.0 liter V6 compressed engine with direct fuel injection and variable intake. The charge effect of the compressor paired with this engine allows for a high torque of 324 ft – lbs and a power output of 333hp. This powerful combustion engine is also matched with a 47hp electric motor incorporated between the engine and transmission. The electric motor is fueled by a high-voltage nickel-metal hydride battery. These two units have a combined maximum output of 380hp. The Panamera can reach 0-60 in 5.7 seconds and has top speeds of 167 mph. The exhaust system, made from long-life stainless steel, uses powerful catalytic converters that effectively control emissions. The Bi-Xenon headlights are a standard feature and have dynamic range adjustment. Also, the interior and exterior mirrors are on automatic dimmers. The front seats are equipped with seat warmers, electric adjustment, and driver memory. The touch screen interior display allows drivers to control stereo, climate, and navigation. This color display system also allows drivers to see the energy flow and usage. It's clear that this Porsche maintains the standard luxury sport car dynamics, while adding low fuel consumption and low VOC emission to the model. This model was able to reach a high power output with comparatively lower CO2 emissions by the use of technologies like direct fuel injection, direct diesel injection, variable camshaft control, turbo charging, auto start/stop features, and by using lightweight materials for construction.
feature allows drivers to take advantage of the maximum capabilities of the car without having to change their driving habits. Another bonus of this feature is that it can be activated or deactivated, depending on the driver's needs. Circumstances like high temperatures, low battery charge, and extreme uphill inclines will force the carautomatically into a deactivated mode, however. The use of braking energy recovery is used to recuperate battery power - The “e-Power” instrument shows the recuperation power and real-time energy usage and consumption. An 8-speed Tiptronic S gearbox helps lower fuel consumption and reduces interior noise while driving. The shifting of this gearbox can be manipulated through driving habits and styles, or by manually changing the gear using sliding switches, or the gear selector.
Both the Panamera hybrid and standard model are equipped with a Porsche Stability Management System. This incredible system allows for complete control and constant solidity, no matter what the driving conditions may be. Sensors are used to monitor speed, direction, acceleration, and velocity which increases traction and applies selective braking on specific wheels. With this system, the Panamera is said to offer the highest level of driving stability and added safety to the driver.
An optional feature of this Porsche is the addition of the Porsche Ceramic Composite Braking System. These brakes were designed specifically to cope with the harshest requirements of the racetrack. This system is only compatible with 20 inch wheels, so the standard 18 inch wheels of the Panamera are also upgraded with this feature. This system is designed to improve braking speed, endure insensitive driving conditions, reduce noise, and lower erosion. The brakes weigh 50% less than standard brakes which add to fuel economy and enhance vehicle performance.
The base hybrid starts at $20,000 more than the standard Panamera, with an average increased MPG of 7 miles city and 12 miles highway. The hybrid Panamera does not have the option of manual transmission or adding an increased hp and larger engine.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Is it worth the extra $20k? That's up to you decide. It has it's pros and cons, but you have to applaud them at their efforts to do their part in lessening negative effects on the environment. The Panamera Hybri is still just as sleek and beautiful, while contributing to a better, safer tomorrow. And the lower fuel prices don't hurt too much either.
By Nathan Dowdy
Contributing Editor: Jenny Boyer