Porsche has launched a harder-edged GTS version of its Porsche Panamera sports saloon at this week's Los Angeles motor show. Powered by a 424bhp, 383lb ft version of the naturally aspirated V8 motor (up some 30bhp and 15lb ft on the standard car), the Porsche Panamera GTS also gets lowered air suspension, larger brakes and Panamera Turbo styling tweaks.
In addition, a switchable Sound Symposer sound generator (which can feed engine noise into the cabin) makes its debut on the Panamera GTS. The model goes on sale in the UK next February, priced from £90,409.
See pictures of the Porsche Panamera GTS, plus new show pics
Despite standard-issue all-wheel drive and a kerb weight of 1920kg, the new engine can propel the car from rest to 62mph in just 4.5sec and on to a top speed of 179mph. Combined fuel consumption is 25.9mpg and CO2 emissions are 256g/km. A seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission is standard equipment.
With the air suspension at its normal height, the GTS sits 10mm lower than regular Panameras and the damping is tauter than normal. It gets 19in Turbo wheels, larger Turbo brakes and 5mm spacers on the rear wheels, widening the track.
The GTS is also fitted with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (active anti-roll bars), an electronically controlled diff lock and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which varies torque distribution across the rear wheels through the limited-slip differential.
The Sport Chrono Plus package is standard, offering Normal, Sport and Sport Plus modes. In Sport Plus, the air suspension drops to its lowest setting and switches to a harder spring rate.
On the exterior, the GTS has the same front bumper as the Turbo model, the Turbo's four-stage rear spoiler, xenon headlights and gloss black exterior detailing.
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