If you’re looking for a four-door sedan, but you don’t want to sacrifice performance, the 2012 Porsche Panamera just might be a win for you. With a choice of seven different models – all of which provide the prestige that only comes with driving a Porsche – there is an option available that will fit most needs, even if it doesn’t fit your budget.
Key Features
With options available from the base V6 that offers 300 horsepower to the 550-horsepower Turbo S, performance is the name of the game with this offering. For those who are more environmentally conscious, or who just want better gas mileage, the Hybrid option provides a respectable 380 horsepower and boosts the city/highway fuel economy to 22/30 mpg.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 Porsche Panamera received several updates, including the addition of the S Hybrid and the Turbo S. Other changes include newly available options.
What We Like
The sheer power and performance make this a must-drive vehicle. The handling and luxurious interior push the envelope even further. Add in the eye-catching design and you have an obvious win.
What Concerns Us
Those who are interested in the 2012 Porsche Panamera need to be prepared that it is on the pricey side. This car is also on the heavy side compared to other Porsche models available.
Available Models
There are seven models available for the 2012 Porsche Panamera:
Panamera and Panamera 4
- 3.6-Liter V6
- 300 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
- 295 lb-ft of torque @ 3,750 rpm
- City/highway fuel economy: 18/26 mpg (Panamera 4), 18/27 mpg (Panamera 4)
Panamera S and Panamera 4S
- 4.8-Liter V8
- 400 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
- 369 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500-5,000 rpm
- City/highway fuel economy: 16/24 mpg
Panamera Turbo
- 4.8-Liter Twin Turbocharged V8
- 500 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
- 516 lb-ft of torque @ 2,250-4,500 rpm
- City/highway fuel economy: 15/23 mpg
Panamera Turbo S
- 4.8-Liter Twin Turbocharged V8
- 550 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
- 553 lb-ft of torque @ 2,250-4,500 rpm
- City/highway fuel economy: 15/23 mpg
Panamera S Hybrid
- 3.0-Liter V6 + Electric Motor
- 380 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
- 428 lb-ft of torque @ 1,000 rpm
- City/highway fuel economy: 22/30 mpg
Major Recalls
There has been one major recall issued for the 2012 Porsche Panamera. Some models may have turbine wheels that have a casting defect. This defect could cause them to fracture, which could cause oil to be sucked into the exhaust system.
Common Issues
There have been two complaints made about the Panamera. The first is due to sudden loss of power steering. The second was due to the lighter interior option on the dash causing a blinding reflection on the windshield.
