New Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid to debut at 2016 Paris Motor Show

[Titan ;x]

The updated hybrid model will join the Panamera range, packing 455bhp and an all-electric range of 31 miles

The new Porsche Panamera has impressed us so far in Turbo and in diesel form, and now Porsche has announced another addition to the range – the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid. Packing plenty of performance thanks to a 455bhp power output, the sophisticated drivetrain means that official CO2 emissions are just 56g/km and there's a claimed economy figure of 113mpg. It's set to go on display next month at the Paris Motor Show.

Porsche says that its hybrid lineup – including the 918 Spyder and 919 Le Mans car – proves that the term ‘hybrid’ doesn’t just mean economy and environmental sustainability, but can mean performance, too.

To that end, the new Panamera Hybrid works in a similar way to the 918, with the electric motor kicking in as soon as the driver presses the accelerator. That means the full complement of power – 134bhp from the electric motor and 321bhp from a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 engine – is available right from the outset. On the previous generation Panamera hybrid, the pedal needed to be depressed at least 80% of the way for the powertrain to give-up its maximum thrust. 
 

Unlike a lot of hybrids, which are saddled with whiny CVT gearboxes, the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid benefits from an eight-speed dual-clutch PDK. This replaces the torque converter automatic of the previous model for faster response times and better efficiency.

Several driving modes will be available. The Panamera E-Hybrid will always start in pure electric mode, but drivers can choose ‘E-Hold’ to maintain the current level of battery charge; ‘E-Charge’ to recharge the batteries while driving, and ‘Hybrid Auto’, which allows the car to choose its own power source. The Panamera E-Hybrid can travel up to 31 miles on electric power alone – enough to cross most cities without any exhaust emissions.

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The usual complement of Sport and Sport Plus driving options remain, for ultimate performance rather than efficiency.

Elsewhere, the Panamera E-Hybrid benefits from the same upgrades made to the standard car. That means less divisive stying, a much improved interior with touch-sensitive buttons, and significantly improved refinement and comfort.

The new Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid will go on display at the Paris Motor Show, and first European deliveries are expected to start in April 2017. No pricing information has yet been announced.