The new top model of the Porsche Panamera has made a significant impact on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, setting a new benchmark for luxury class cars with combustion engines and hybrids. With Porsche test driver Lars Kern behind the wheel, a pre-series version of this high-performance touring saloon completed the demanding circuit 5.64 seconds faster than its predecessor, underlining Porsche’s relentless pursuit of engineering excellence.
A New Benchmark in Performance
Last Friday, Lars Kern set an impressive lap time of 7:24.17 minutes, breaking the previous record for luxury class vehicles. Kern, who has previously set records at the Nordschleife in the Panamera Turbo S in 2016 and 2020, praised the new model’s enhancements: “The new Panamera has made significant gains, especially in the technically challenging sections of the track. Its agility and transverse dynamic capabilities have noticeably improved.”
Advanced Engineering for Superior Performance
The new Panamera’s record-breaking performance is a testament to Porsche's commitment to continuous development. The car’s electrically supported eight-cylinder combustion engine delivers outstanding driving dynamics, but the achievement is also attributed to several key factors.
“The powertrain, aerodynamics, chassis, and the new ultra-high-performance tyres from Michelin all played crucial roles in achieving this best time,” Kern explained. The Panamera features the new Porsche Active Ride chassis, which offers exceptional cornering stability and body control, contributing to the car's unparalleled balance between comfort and sportiness. According to Kern, “No other Porsche offers such a wide spectrum between comfort and sportiness. The new Panamera combines the luxury of an exclusive touring saloon with the handling of a true sports car.”
Cutting-Edge Aerodynamics and Tyre Technology
To ensure maximum performance, the Panamera was fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, specifically developed for this model, with dimensions of 275/35 ZR 21 at the front and 325/30 ZR 21 at the rear. The optional Carbon Aerokit further enhances the car's aerodynamic efficiency by eliminating lift on the front axle, while the Gurney flap on the adaptive 4-way rear spoiler generates downforce, resulting in optimised aerodynamic balance.
For safety during the record attempt, the Panamera was equipped with a racing seat and a mandatory safety cage, but the vehicle otherwise remained identical to the series version.
Watch the Record-Breaking Lap
A video of the entire record-setting lap, complete with onboard footage, will soon be available on the Porsche Newsroom and YouTube, offering fans and enthusiasts an up-close look at the Panamera's incredible performance on one of the world's most challenging circuits.