The Porsche Panamera line-up offers a spectrum of driving experiences, but transitioning from the e-hybrid directly into the GTS model revealed a distinct and exhilarating character. Having never driven a GTS before, the anticipation was high, and the Panamera GTS delivered on every expectation, starting with its unforgettable exhaust note.
The most striking aspect of the Panamera GTS is undeniably its visceral sound. Engaging the sport exhaust unleashes a truly captivating and raw auditory experience, a rare pleasure in a street-legal passenger car. Initially, Porsche considered discontinuing the GTS for the 2014 lineup as the Panamera S and 4S shifted to V6 Turbo power. Fortunately, the decision was reversed, preserving a model that offers a unique driving sensation.
While the Rhodium Silver Metallic exterior of the test GTS might not be universally adored, the Marsala Red Alcantara interior was a highlight. It offered exceptional comfort and visual appeal. The Alcantara seats were superb, but the Alcantara SportDesign steering wheel was particularly impressive. Carbon fiber accents added a sporty touch, although brushed aluminum might have better complemented the interior’s overall design aesthetic.
Porsche Panamera GTS interior showcasing SportDesign steering wheel and Marsala Red Alcantara seats
For any Panamera, and indeed any PDK-equipped Porsche, the SportDesign steering wheel is an essential option. It replaces the standard shifter buttons with intuitive paddle shifters – left for downshifts and right for upshifts. While column-mounted paddles would be ideal for mid-corner gear changes, the responsiveness and tactile feel of these wheel-mounted paddles are a significant improvement over the standard buttons. Although opting for the SportDesign wheel means sacrificing some steering wheel button functionality like the scroll wheel and radio controls, the enhanced driving experience is well worth the trade-off, especially given the less-than-ideal standard shifter buttons.
The 2014 GTS model received a power boost, gaining an additional 20 horsepower from its 4.8-liter V8 engine. This increase is noticeable, providing abundant power throughout the rev range. The core appeal of the GTS remains consistent with previous models, emphasizing a raw and engaging driving experience. For those who found earlier GTS models visually understated, the 2014 version presents a more assertive and appealing aesthetic.
Front view of a 2014 Porsche Panamera GTS highlighting its sporty and aggressive design
The Porsche Panamera Gts occupies a unique and slightly unconventional space within the Porsche lineup, blending sports car thrills with sedan practicality. It embodies the “real Porsche” spirit often sought by enthusiasts. This car delivers genuine sports car performance while comfortably accommodating four passengers. It feels remarkably agile and compact on the road, belying its size. The GTS possesses a remarkable ability to feel much smaller than it is, transforming into a dynamic two-seat sports GT from behind the wheel. It masterfully combines comfort, speed, exhilarating sound, and driving fun, delivering everything one could desire from a Porsche sedan.
Side profile of Porsche Panamera GTS demonstrating its sedan form and GTS badging
The Panamera S and 4S now feature a 3.0-liter V6 Turbo engine, a downsized and turbocharged derivative of the base 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. Rumors circulate about a full-stroke 3.6-liter turbocharged engine in development. With the 4.8-liter naturally aspirated engine now exclusive to GTS models, integrating this 3.6-liter turbo into the next-generation GTS seems like a logical progression. The crucial question remains whether this future engine can replicate the captivating sound and character of the current GTS V8.
