Porsche Panamera 976

Panamera in brief

The Panamera was introduced in 2009. The first generation (970) was produced from 2009 to 2016 and refreshed in 2013, the second (971) from 2016 to 2023, and the third (976) from 2024 onwards. The main body style is a liftback with a large opening rear section. Since 2013, an extended Executive version has been offered, and in 2017, the Sport Turismo estate arrived.

The Panamera is praised for its superb handling, high-quality interior, and wide range of engines—from V6 to powerful V8s and plug-in hybrids. However, it's a complex and expensive car to maintain, so the technical condition and service history are particularly important when buying used.

970 and 971 – what's the difference

The 970 generation (2009–2016) is currently the cheapest way to get a Panamera. It's easily recognisable by its rounder, bulkier rear end and a cabin with plenty of buttons on the central console. The 2013 refreshed S and 4S models gained a 3.0 V6 biturbo engine, and the range was supplemented by the plug-in hybrid S E-Hybrid.

971 generation (2016–2023) built on a new platform: it's lighter, more elegant, with tactile controls and a large in-cabin screen, and all versions come with an 8-speed PDK gearbox. This is the most popular generation among newer used cars, and the 2020 facelift models got more powerful engines and an improved suspension.

976 generation (from 2024) is technically close to the 971, but all versions feature air suspension, and the majority of production consists of plug-in hybrids. There aren't many of these used cars on the market yet.

Engines and gearboxes

In the 970 generation, you'll commonly find Panamera and Panamera 4 with 3.6 V6 (around 300–310 hp), S and 4S with 4.8 V8 (around 400 hp, from 2013 — 3.0 V6 biturbo, around 420 hp), diesel Panamera Diesel with 3.0 V6 (around 250–300 hp), GTS with 4.8 V8 (around 430–440 hp) and Turbo with 4.8 V8 biturbo (around 500–570 hp).

In the 971 generation, Panamera and Panamera 4 come with 2.9 V6 biturbo (around 330 hp), 4S — the same 2.9 V6 (around 440 hp), GTS — 4.0 V8 (around 460–480 hp), Turbo and Turbo S — 4.0 V8 (around 550–630 hp). Until 2018, a 4S Diesel with 4.0 V8 diesel engine (around 422 hp) was also offered. Plug-in hybrids include the 4 E-Hybrid (around 462 hp), later the 4S E-Hybrid, and the most powerful Turbo S E-Hybrid with around 680–700 hp.

In the 970 generation, the 7-speed PDK gearbox was most commonly used (diesel and hybrid versions — 8-speed automatic Tiptronic S), while in the 971 and 976 generations, it's the 8-speed PDK. The base Panamera is rear-wheel drive, while versions with the number 4 and Turbo come with all-wheel drive.

What to check when buying a used Panamera

The pneumatic suspension is one of the most expensive parts to repair: the car shouldn't sag on one corner overnight, and the compressor should lift the body quietly and quickly. Listen for suspension noises while driving and check if all driving modes work.

The PDK transmission should shift smoothly and without jolts, and the engine should run evenly, without oil or coolant leaks. It's worth getting a diagnostic check from a Porsche specialist: it shows errors, high rev recordings, and the condition of the electronics.

For plug-in hybrids, check the battery condition and charging operation. The Panamera depreciates quickly, so there are many cars with several owners on the market — check the service history for maintenance and the body for repainted parts and uneven gaps.

Versions

Porsche trims heavily depend on individually ordered equipment; we list the main versions and their typical features.

971 generation comparison

For most buyers, the best choice is the 971-generation Panamera 4 or 4S: they're quick, comfortable, and easier to maintain than the V8 versions. The 4 E-Hybrid is worth considering only if you can regularly charge it, while the GTS is for those who value the V8 sound and sportiness.

Frequently asked questions