The Porsche Panamera (G1 II) S 3.0 V6, produced between 2013 and 2016, represents a significant iteration of Porsche’s foray into the luxury four-door grand touring segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the second generation (G1 II) Panamera lineup, it bridged the gap between the base model and the more potent S/4 variants. This model utilized a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with Porsche’s acclaimed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, offering a blend of performance and efficiency. The G1 II Panamera, built on the Volkswagen Group’s D platform, aimed to deliver the driving experience expected of a Porsche, but in a more practical package than the traditional 911.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Panamera |
| Generation | Panamera (G1 II) |
| Type (Engine) | S 3.0 V6 (420 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 204 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 287 km/h (178.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 232 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 287.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 140.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 520 Nm @ 1750-5000 rpm (383.53 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CWDA |
| Engine displacement | 2997 cm3 (182.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69 mm (2.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2415 kg (5324.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1263 l (44.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5015 mm (197.44 in.) |
| Width | 1931 mm (76.02 in.) |
| Height | 1418 mm (55.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2920 mm (114.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1658 mm (65.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1662 mm (65.43 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/50 ZR18 Rear wheel tires: 275/45 ZR18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 18 Rear wheel rims: 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Panamera S 3.0 V6 lies the CWDA engine, a 2.997-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to optimize performance and efficiency. The twin-turbocharger setup, employing a pair of BorgWarner turbochargers, provides a broad torque curve and minimizes turbo lag. The engine’s architecture is a 60-degree V configuration, contributing to a relatively compact engine bay layout. The PDK seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. Unlike a traditional automatic, the PDK utilizes two separate clutches – one for even-numbered gears and one for odd-numbered gears – allowing for pre-selection of the next gear, resulting in near-instantaneous shifts. This transmission is known for its responsiveness and contribution to both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The Panamera S 3.0 V6 PDK delivers a refined and capable driving experience. While not as brutally fast as the Panamera S/4 models, the 420 horsepower and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque provide ample power for both comfortable cruising and spirited driving. The PDK transmission contributes significantly to the car’s responsiveness, allowing for quick acceleration and precise gear changes. The gear ratios are tuned to balance acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall final drive. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other Panamera models, the PDK offers a more seamless and effortless driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The rear-wheel drive configuration provides a balanced feel, although it doesn’t offer the added traction of the all-wheel drive S/4 variant.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Panamera S 3.0 V6 typically came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a multi-function steering wheel, and a high-quality audio system. Standard exterior features included bi-xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a power liftgate. Optional extras were plentiful, including adaptive air suspension, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather interiors, and various driver assistance systems like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. The trim level could be further customized through Porsche’s extensive “Personalization” program, allowing buyers to tailor the car to their specific preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The Panamera S 3.0 V6 utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and performance, offering a good compromise between the two. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The chassis is designed to be rigid, contributing to the car’s overall stability and handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Panamera S 3.0 V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that it didn’t quite offer the same level of performance as the higher-end S/4 models. Compared to the base Panamera, the S 3.0 V6 offered a significant performance upgrade. In terms of fuel economy, it offered a reasonable balance between performance and efficiency, achieving around 27 mpg combined. Reliability has been generally good, although like any complex luxury vehicle, it requires regular maintenance.
Legacy
The Porsche Panamera S 3.0 V6 (G1 II) remains a desirable used car today. The CWDA engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. The PDK transmission is also known for its durability. These models offer a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and practicality, making them a popular choice for buyers seeking a high-end grand touring car. The Panamera S 3.0 V6 helped establish Porsche as a serious player in the luxury sedan market and paved the way for future iterations of the Panamera.
