Porsche already has a tradition in this regard: every Turbo car gets a ‘S’ version too. It may seems just a subtile difference, but it isn’t subtile at all because in Panamera’s case it’s about 50 hp more power thanks to a modified ECU, and more responsive, also thanks to modified turbochargers with titanium-aluminum turbine blades. The basic design of the Turbo model’s twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V-8 remains unchanged.
The Panamera Turbo makes 516 lb-ft of torque in regular trim, and the Turbo S provides up to 553 lb-ft—or 590 with an overboost function. This model transmission is the excellent PDK, a ZF-sourced seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. It routes power to all four wheels, with a noticeable bias toward the rearmost pair.
This new model’s torque-vectoring system included with the standard Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control basically forces the Panamera into corners and makes it virtually impossible to throw the car off course with anything less than wildly exaggerated inputs and insane entry speeds.
Below you can watch the new promo video of the Panamera Turbo S in some winding roads, reflecting on the joys of driving a 550 hp luxury GT. Enjoy it!
