Porsche has a habit of introducing new variations of a particular model as they are on the way out. These are normally a version of the base car with some additional features/options thrown in for value and aesthetics. It gets buyers into the showroom to pick-up a car that might otherwise sit and languish while buyers wait for the new version. The three new Panamera models announced last night are a great example of this strategy. Introducing the Panamera Edition, the Panamera 4 Edition and the Panamera Diesel Edition 4 (not available in China or the U.S.).
Later in the week, at the New York Auto Show, the press and U.S. car buyers will get to see the Panamera Edition and the Panamera 4 Edition models. Each comes standard with high-gloss back trim strips on the side windows, the 19″ wheels you normally see on the Turbo version (including colored center caps) and door handles in body-matching color (if you order Porsche Entry & Drive as an option).
In addition to the exterior changes, the 4-door comes standard with two-tone leather, door sill with “Edition” lettering, the Porsche logo on the headrests and a Sport Design Steering Wheel. The Bose premium sound system with 14 speakers comes as standard, too.
From a tech standpoint, a number of items normally available as options come standard on the Edition models. These include, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Bi-Xenon headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), Park Assist front and rear including reversing camera and Power Steering Plus. In addition, models in the United States are equipped with 14-way comfort seats in the front, including comfort memory package, as well as seat heating in the front and rear.
For those living in China, they might not get a Diesel version, but they will get comfort seats in the rear and electric roll-up sun blinds for the side windows and rear window in the event they decide to be chauffeured around vs. driving it themselves.
Here in the U.S. sales of the Panamera Edition will start in June. Prices begin at $80,00- for the rear-wheel-drive model and $84,300 for the all-wheel-drive model. Neither figure includes Porsche’s standard $995 destination charge.