Porsche debuts purist Panamera GTS in Los Angeles

The Panamera GTS is powered by a modified 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 430 hp at 6,700 rpm – increasing the output over the Panamera S and 4S by 30 hp thanks to a combination of a higher rev limit and a higher-flow intake system. The maximum torque also increases, from 369 to 384 lb. ft. Exhaust gases exit through a standard sport exhaust system. Featuring two tuning flaps, which expose additional exhaust openings at the push of a button on the console, it emits an even more powerful sound. With the launch control feature of the standard Sport Chrono package, the 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission delivers thrust to the all-wheel drive system without interrupting the power flow, enabling the Panamera GTS to sprint to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, accelerating on to a top track speed of 288 km/h. Acceleration figures and top speed only scratch the surface of the Panamera GTS’s sporty character. The adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) constantly adapt to the driving challenges by regulating leveling settings, adjusting height, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system. The body has also been lowered by 10 mm. Deceleration is provided by the braking system from the Panamera Turbo, which includes larger front brake rotors; like other Porsche models, the Panamera GTS is available with optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), featuring yellow brake calipers. Cornering grip is provided by standard 255/45 19-inch tires on the front axle and 285/40 19-inch tires on the rear.

The Panamera GTS comes standard with the Sport Chrono package, which offers normal, Sport and Sport Plus modes. Specific characteristics of the car are further accentuated depending on which mode is selected: for example, activating Sport Plus enhances gear-shift parameters and throttle response, lowers the adaptive air suspension and switches to a harder spring rate, while the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system intervenes later. Optional features include Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which prevents the body from rolling by using active stabilizers on the front and rear axle, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which varies the torque distribution to the rear wheels with an electronically regulated rear differential lock. Inside, the standard adaptive 18-way sport seats feature Alcantara center panels; Alcantara is also used on the upper sections of the door armrests, front center console armrest and roofliner. The SportDesign steering wheel with shift paddles combines dynamic looks with sporty functionality. Two optional interior equipment packages marry a black interior with decorative stitching on the seats, floor mats, dashboard, door panels, center console armrest and doors, in Carmine Red or GT silver, with matching seatbelts and embroidered GTS lettering on the headrests and safety belts. The 2013 Panamera GTS will be available in the spring of 2012 at a base MSRP of $125,400.