By Bill Buys - Community Newspaper Group motoring editor
EXPECTED to lob in Perth around March is Porsche’s new Panamera GTS, described (by Porsche) as “the sports car among Gran Turismos”.
For 2012 it has a more powerful 4.8litre V8 engine, a refreshed interior and new outside lines.
Output is now 316kW and the all-wheel drive has a seven-speed direct-shift gearbox (doppelkupplungsgetriebe in German) and adaptive air suspension.
It can bellow to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, has a top speed of 288km/h and uses premium fuel at the rate of 10.9litres/100 km.
The 22kW power hike, compared with the Panamera S and 4S, is accompanied by a 20Nm lift in torque, now a maximum 520Nm at 3500rpm.
And here’s something different: Occupants can hear and enjoy the aural splendour of the Panamera GTS engine through the Sound Symposer which, at the push of the Sport button, directs the intake noise into the interior.
The standard sports exhaust system also provides a sensory benefit.
Aerodynamically, the Panamera GTS is on par with the Panamera Turbo.
At 205km/h the rear spoiler positions itself to generate downforce on the rear axle, boosting stability at high speeds.
Inside, there’s the ambience of leather and Alcantara with a choice of five interior colours.
The 12 official Porsche Centres throughout Australia are now taking orders for the Panamera GTS which will be priced at $315,300.