Porsche Debuts Its First “Practical” Model; Is It Sport Or A Wagon?

When the Geneva Auto Show opens next week there will be a new series of cars joining last year's newcomer, the Panamera. In this case, it is Porsche's first "practical" vehicle, a sports wagon called the Sports Turismo.

At last, things are turning practical for Porsche – well as practical as anything Porsche manufactures, that is. How’s this for practicality, the automaker is taking its Panamera line and adding what is essentially a station wagon, the Sport Turismo. The new model debuts at next week’s Geneva Motor Show.

Porsche will offer four versions – the Panamera 4, Panamera 4S, Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and the Panamera Turbo. The new models are based on the automaker’s successful sports sedan. Unlike other intros, the four models will be available at launch, rather than later in the year.

Design Is Unmistakeable

Porsche calls the new Panamera models "a profound statement in the premium segment with their unmistakeable design." The Sport Turismo with its 550 horsepower powerplant is one of the most versatile models in its class. For example, the large tailgate, low-loading edge, increased luggage carrying capacity and a four-plus-one seating concept make the Sport Turismo a flexible hauler.

"For Porsche, the Panamera Sport Turismo is a step forward into a new segment, but retains all of those values that are characteristic or Porsche," Michael Mauer, director of Style Porsche, said.

A variation of the Panamera sports sedan, announced last year, the Sport Turismo includes all of the innovations included in the original. The changes include the Porsche Advanced Cockpit, the advanced assistance system Porsche InnoDrive, Porsche Communication Management (PCM), adaptive cruise control and turbocharged powertrains.

Also, chassis systems like Rear Axle Steering, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC Sport) and electronic roll stabilization are also available. And, all Panamera Sport Turismos are equipped with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) – an active all-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled multiple clutch and adaptive air suspension with three-chamber technology as standard

Like the coupe-style Panamera sport sedan, the Sport Turismo is 198 inches overall. Its sleek exterior is defined by a roof that s 56.2 inches high and a width of 76.3 inches. Its wheelbase is 116.1 inches. The styling is further characterized by short overhangs. Wheel choices of up to 21 inches are available.

Unique Rear Design
From the B-pillars to the rear, the Sport Turismo features a unique rear design. Over the pronounced shoulder, an elongated window line and equally long roof contour result in a striking appearance. At the rear, the roof drops away less dramatically than the window line, resulting in a prominent, distinctive D-pillar which transitions into the shoulder section as in a coupe-like design. At the top of the rear, one can see the roof extend into an adaptive spoiler. The angle of the spoiler is set in three stages, depending on the driving situation and selected vehicle settings.

The spoiler can generate additional downforce of up to 110 pounds on the rear axle. In normal driving, the spoiler remains retracted, reducing drag and optimizing fuel consumption. At speed, the spoiler automatically moves into performance position.

The new Sport Turismo is the first Panamera to feature rear seating for three passengers. The two outer seats form individual seats. The back forms a 2+1 seating configuration. There is also a four-seat configuration available with two electrically adjustable seats in the back. The raised rear roofline also makes getting into and out of the rear easier as it offers excellent head clearance. There is plenty of cargo space available, up to 45.5 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

Four Engine Choices

At launch there will be four engine choices available:

• The Panamera 4 Sport Turismo – 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 with 330 horsepower; 0 to 60 time of 5.0 seconds. $96,200.
• The Panamera 4S Sport Turismo – 2.9-liter, twin-turbo V-6; 0 to 60 time of 4.0 seconds. $104,000.
• The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Sport Turismo – combined 2.9-liter, twin-turbo V-6; added 136 horsepower electric motor; 0 to 60 time of 4.4 seconds. $109,200.
• The Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo – 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 with 550 horsepower; 0 to 60 time of 3.4 seconds. $154,000.