What's all this about?

Porsche keeps adding to its Panamera line-up, and the latest additions are two new plug-in hybrid models. Sitting below the existing Turbo E-Hybrid in the latest-generation Panamera line-up, the new 4 E-Hybrid and 4S E-Hybrid models will be more suited to company car drivers and those who aim to combine efficiency and performance.

What's all this E-Hybrid stuff?

E-Hybrid is the badge Porsche uses to denote a plug-in hybrid model in its Panamera range, and it’s a technology that’s applied to numerous different engine configurations to create rungs of the E-Hybrid ladder. Just as Porsche does with other powertrains.

In the case of the Panamera, the latest-generation E-Hybrid models pair petrol engines with a rechargeable 25.9kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which powers a 190hp electric motor housed in the car’s gearbox. As a result, the Panamera E-Hybrid models can travel up to 59 miles on a single charge without the need for the petrol engine. When that range is exhausted, drivers can recharge or simply allow the petrol engine to take over.

The most modern E-Hybrid versions of the Panamera not only have greater range than their predecessors, but more powerful electric motors, allowing the cars to use electrical power more of the time.

So what's new?

As we’ve mentioned, the E-Hybrid system has already been seen in the new Panamera range, with the Turbo E-Hybrid that teams the electrical system with a turbocharged, 4.0-litre V8 engine to produce a chunky 680hp. Now, however, Porsche has announced two new E-Hybrid models that combine the electric powertrain with 2.9-litre turbocharged V6 engines.

The least powerful of the two is the 4 E-Hybrid, which offers buyers a combined total of 470hp and all-wheel drive, which is enough to take the big, five-door fastback from 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 174mph.

But those who want a bit more go can have the 4S E-Hybrid, which squeezes a little more from its V6 to bring the power output to 544hp. That cuts the 0-62mph time by a not-insignificant four tenths of a second, and increases the top speed to 180mph.

Anything else to report?

Well, Porsche claims there’s more to all this than just a few new models. The company claims its E-Hybrid models charge faster and offer better responsiveness than the E-Hybrid systems fitted to the previous-generation Panamera, and the company has made strides in terms of suspension.

All new Panamera models get two-chamber air suspension and two-valve dampers, but customers can specify the optional Active Ride suspension for E-Hybrid models. That provides a pump for each damper that can adapt to the conditions, reducing the pitching or rolling effects of the road or driving style, as well as lifting or lowering the car to aid access.

Other than that, the E-Hybrid versions of the Panamera will offer exactly the same features as any other new-generation Panamera, including the latest interior with a digital instrument display and the option of a passenger touchscreen, not to mention Porsche’s subtly updated styling and new lights.

So how much will one of these E-Hybrids set me back?

Quite a lot, actually. Whereas a standard, V6 petrol Panamera costs £79,500, and the all-wheel-drive Panamera 4 costs £82,500, the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid will set you back £90,300 before you even think about options. And if you want the 4S E-Hybrid, you’re talking about spending £102,100 at the very least. The first examples are set to be delivered during the second quarter of 2024, but every vehicle will come with a bespoke driving experience at the Porsche Experience Centre, at Silverstone.