Porsche will not be bringing the Panamera to Geneva in March; instead we will have to wait a little longer and travel a little further. The covers will come off the sports saloon at Auto Shanghai on 19th April.

We know Porsche will offer a range of V6 and V8 engines incorporating direct fuel injection, which are claimed to return exceptional fuel economy. Depending on the model, either a six-speed manual or the seven-speed double-clutch PDK transmission will be offered, with the PDK gearbox available as an option on all versions.

The six- and naturally aspirated eight-cylinder models come as standard with rear-wheel drive, while the 500bhp twin-turbo V8 model will be fitted with a "lightweight" all-wheel drive system and Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which will also be offered as an option on lower-powered models.

Standard suspension uses steel springs and variable dampers. Options to enhance the chassis include adaptive air suspension and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC). Air suspension includes a "Sport Plus Mode" that lowers the body for improved handling and reduced aerodynamic drag, while PDCC actively compensates for body roll when cornering.

The Panamera will go on sale in late summer this year. The V8-powered models will be the first to go on sale with the V6 versions following later. Full details of prices and specifications will be revealed later this year.

John Lambert - 6 Jan 2009