Porsche News
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Official information about Porsche's Panamera sedan continues to trickle out of Stuttgart's front door, with the latest word being that the four-door gran turismo will incorporate a slate of new technologies that include a fuel-saving stop/start measure on models equipped with the company's fast-acting PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Stop/Start technology has been gaining traction in all segments of the European market as a way to lower C02 output and fuel bills, but it has yet to catch on in the States outside of use in hybrid models, so it will be interesting to see how well the technology is accepted. In addition to stop/start, the Cayman will feature a trick air suspension system that includes additional air volume available on demand and active aero on Panamera Turbo models.
For the moment, Porsche says their adaptive air suspension (standard on Turbo and optional on other models) is an "absolute innovation in automotive technology" in its ability to provide a greater breadth of range between comfort and sport, a claim made possible in part through the use of the company's lauded Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system as well as optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), both being technologies we have sampled in other vehicles.
Porsche has a long history with active aerodynamics, and thanks to spy shots depicting a movable rear wing, we knew that the Panamera would also benefit from the technology. The automaker has now confirmed that the car will be fitted with a four-way rear spoiler on Turbo models.
An important feature for fuel efficiency and performance is in the lightweight construction of the car which is thanks to the use of aluminium and magnesium, as well as plastics. Because of this and other reasons the Panamera S weighs 1,770kg (3,902 lbs). The rear seats offer tilting and adjustability too.
The underfloor of the Panamera is completely covered to give it better air flow capability, while at the same time allowing for its sporty sound characteristics to be appreciated even from inside. Low-resistance tyres are included to further improve fuel consumption.
Porsche Panamera extra-large lightweight underfloor cover for improved aerodynamics
