September 2016 www.womanthismonth.com 50 The Porsche Panamera is more than just a car; it’s a reflection of the driver’s impeccable taste and elegance. Whether you’re running errands or on your way to a business meeting, this model ensures you get there on time and in style. It has been systematically improved and boasts notable changes to the engines, transmission, chassis and interior design. There are newly-implemented features such as rear axle steering, active roll compensation and three-chamber air suspension. The result? A car that delivers an unforgettable drive. At first glance, this is unmistakably a Panamera, with recognisable aesthetics such as pronounced shoulders, athletic flanks and an extremely fast roof line that is 20mm lower at the rear. This creates a stylistic link to Porsche’s design icon, the 911. The new model’s interior is a sight for sore eyes with black panel surfaces and interactive displays that combine to present an intuitive user interface similar to a smartphone. Classic hard keys and conventional instruments have been replaced with touchsensitive panels and individually configurable displays, which take centre stage in the cockpit. Despite having an extended range of communication, convenience and assistance systems, operation of the new functions is now easier than ever. Although the cabin transforms the analogue world into the digital present, there are still traditional elements such as the centrally positioned tachometer in the instrument cluster – a tribute to the 1955 Porsche 356 A. All second generation Panamera engines have been redesigned to deliver more power, while significantly improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. The Panamera Turbo and Panamera 4S now feature new Bi-Turbo direct injection engines. Both models can be equipped with a permanent all-wheel-drive system and a new eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission. The Panamera Turbo is powered by a V8 engine that delivers 550bhp, while a V6 440bhp variant drives the Panamera 4S. The Panamera is equipped with a range of standard and optional assistance systems, which make life while driving more convenient as well as safer. Night Vision Assistant is a new feature, which uses a thermal imaging camera to detect people and large animals by displaying a coloured, highlighted warning indicator in the cockpit. If the new LED Matrix Headlights (with 84 image points) are selected, people beyond the visual range of the dipped beam headlight are also illuminated briefly, should they be in the computed driving corridor, enabling the driver to avoid critical situations in advance. Another new addition is the optional Porsche InnoDrive, which includes adaptive cruise control. Based on navigation data and signals from radar and video sensors, it computes and activates the optimal acceleration and deceleration rates, as well as gear selections and coasting phases, for the next 3km. In doing so, this electronic co-pilot automatically takes bends, inclines and speed limits into account. The Panamera has only grown six millimetres in width, but it feels like several centimetres, an effect created by features such as the A-shaped air intake, which extends out to the sides and creates a completely new front-end design, its makers say. In addition, the Porsche Panamera offers the best layout variability of any model in the luxury class, making it practical for everyday use with a 40:20:40 split of the folding rear bench backrests. Adding to the appeal are new equipment options such as the panoramic tilt roof, massage seats, ambient lighting and a 3D high-end sound system from Burmester. The new Porsche Panamera range is available for order now. First deliveries in Bahrain can be expected to take place in January 2017. Call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911. showcase PERFORMANCE MEETS LUXURY PORSCHE PANAMERA This model has been revamped for success and delivers a classy combination of state-of-the-art technology and refined dynamics.
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