Porsche has proven the performance potential of the new Panamera even before the car’s world premiere. In a lightly camouflaged series production car, test driver Lars Kern completed a full lap of the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife over a distance of 20.832 kilometres in exactly 7:29.81 minutes. In the official ranking of Nürburgring GmbH, this time certified by a public notary now stands as a new record in the “executive cars” category.
“The Panamera has always been both an exclusive touring saloon and a true sports car at the same time. In the new model, we have enhanced these even more,” says Thomas Friemuth, Vice President Product Line Panamera. “Alongside the increased engine power, improvements have been made in the areas of cornering stability, body control and steering precision. These enhancements benefit both everyday comfort and performance. The lap record is impressive proof of this.”
At an outside temperature of 22 degrees Celsius and with a track temperature of 34 degrees Celsius, Lars Kern started the lap at 1.49 pm on 24 July and crossed the finish line 7:29.81 minutes later. The record-breaking Panamera was equipped with a racing seat and a safety cage as protection for the driver.
The public notary also confirmed the series production status of the still camouflaged four-door saloon, which will celebrate its world premiere at the end of August. The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tyre developed especially for the new Panamera and used for the record lap will be optionally available after the market launch.