The 2010 Panamera, Porsche’s first all-new car since the debut of the Cayenne in 2002, was unveiled with lots of fanfare at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show exhibit. Undoubtedly, the Panamera’s release was criticized by some Porsche purists, as was the Cayenne, which is now Porsche’s bestselling car. The second vehicle to be created as part of a plan to reach a broader customer base, the new Panamera was designed as “a car where the Porsche experience could be shared with more than just the co-pilot,” claims Detlev von Platen, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. Adding, “Just like with the Cayenne, we found another chance to forge a new path and create a car that did not exist: a sports car for four. Despite the tough economy, I am confident the Panamera will be a success.”

Doppelkupplungsgetriebe! In other words, Porsche’s seven-speed double clutch automatic gearbox, comes standard on all U.S. Panamera models. The PDK gearbox delivers surprisingly smooth, ultra-fast gear shifts, without compromising engine power or fuel efficiency. For example, the Panamera S obtains 26.2 mpg under the New European Driving Cycle standards (EPA figures estimated at 16 city and 24 highway for the S and 4S, and 15/23 mpg for the Turbo). Its fuel efficiency is largely due to its engine start/stop system that saves fuel by turning off the engine when it’s not needed, such as when sitting at a stop light. A retractable rear wing, which deploys at 56 mph, adjusts depending on speed, and helps maintain a slick .29 drag coefficient for the S and 4S, and .30 for the turbo. The Panamera’s monocoque structure uses a mixture of lightweight steel, aluminum, and magnesium alloys, trimming its weight to just under 4,000 lbs.

Initially offered in three versions – the 400-horsepower two-wheel drive Panamera S, the all-wheel drive Panamera 4S, and the 500-horsepower, twin-turbocharged all-wheel drive Panamera Turbo – the new Panamera, with its 18-way adjustable front seats, and 8-way adjustable rear seats, easily seats 4 occupants. All three versions will be powered by a 4.8 liter V8, with the S starting at $89,000, and the all-wheel drive version starting at $93,800. The 500 horsepower twin turbo, with a zero to 60 time of 4 seconds and a top speed of 188 mph, will set you back $132,600. U.S. sales are to begin in October.

A hybrid variant of the Panamera is under works, although Porsche has failed to disclose any further details. The hybrid version is expected to debut later this year.

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