The Porsche Panamera is a luxury large sedan that began as a 2010 model year.
It offers impressive performance, plenty of practicality and head-turning good looks.
In this article, we’ll be thoroughly analyzing all of its best and worst model years.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Porsche Panamera Are:
The best Porsche Panamera model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016. The worst model years of this model are 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2010, and 2020. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Porsche Panamera?
2024 Porsche Panamera
The 2024 Panamera stands out as a top choice having undergone a comprehensive redesign for 2024. This includes refreshed aesthetics, the latest technological advancements, updated powertrain options, and enhanced chassis elements.
New features include a fast-reacting Active Ride suspension system and a PDK transmission that incorporates an electric drive motor.
Additionally, it boasts a reworked interior that draws inspiration from the Cayenne, along with an updated hybrid system for its hybrid variants.
More details about this model year will be available following the publication of thorough reviews.
2023, 2022, and 2021 Porsche Panamera
The 2023, 2022, and 2021 Panamera models are excellent choices and are part of the second generation introduced for 2017.
They offer strong acceleration from the V6 and V8 engines, stellar handling for such a large car, and a refined interior design packed with the latest available technology.
Adaptive cruise control has also been made standard across the board.
Numerous trim levels are available and can be condensed into 5 main categories: Base, 4, 4S, GTS, and Turbo S.
Base pricing ranges between around $94,000 and $209,000.
According to reviews online, these are the positive aspects worth mentioning:
- Appearance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Driving experience
- Technology
- Handling
- Steering
- Seats
- Spaciousness
2023 Porsche Panamera:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2022 Porsche Panamera:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 76 / 100
2021 Porsche Panamera:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2021 Porsche Panamera, Edmunds Review:
“I love this car. Previously I had a 2019 Macan 4S (which is an awesome little car) but needed something bigger for all my highway travel. Before that a 2007 MB 550 SL (loved it). Bought this one as a lease turn-in with 6400 miles on it. No issues ever…”
2019 and 2018 Porsche Panamera
For a perfect balance between value in the used car market and the latest in performance and technology, we recommend opting for either the 2019 or 2018 Panamera this year.
They offer exceptional handling, a sleek and sophisticated design, and a spacious interior with room for adults in either row.
New for these model years are equipment shuffling and more trim levels (GTS and Sport Turismo GTS).
Notable safety features include the following:
- Lane Departure Warning and Intervention
- Forward Collision Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
Based on the EPA’s testing, owners could expect as much as 21 to 22 MPG for combined city and highway driving, which is quite a good figure for a large luxury car.
2019 Porsche Panamera
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2018 Porsche Panamera:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2019 Porsche Panamera, Edmunds Review:
“While I have only had the car a few weeks, it is everything I expected. Luxurious and refined when desired or a “beast” when you want performance. (Just choose regular, sport, sport plus or custom driving mode.) The car grips the road, including corners, like no sedan I have ever driven. The seats are ultra-comfortable, front and rear. My ratings on reliability and value are only four stars because it is too early to know.”
2017 Porsche Panamera
The 2017 model represents a total overhaul of the original first-generation design, moving away from its previously more rounded exterior.
The 2017 model introduced a more streamlined and striking four-door Porsche sedan, delivering performance that surpassed its predecessors.
There are a variety of trim levels available (other than the hybrid options): Base, 4, 4S, Turbo, 4 Executive, 4S Executive, and Turbo Executive.
Aside from the base model, all variants are equipped with all-wheel drive.
In terms of engines, the base, 4, and 4 Executive models are driven by a turbocharged 3-liter V6 engine, delivering 330 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque.
The midrange 4S and 4S Executive come with a turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine (440 horsepower, 404 pound-feet of torque).
The top-spec Turbo and Turbo Executive make use of a large 4-liter V8 engine (550 horsepower, 567 pound-feet of torque).
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2017 Porsche Panamera, Edmunds Review:
“Starting off, the looks on this car are gorgeous. It stands out from the crowd of ‘boring’ looking cars and can give you some unwarranted attention on the road or driving in town. Most people won’t know that the car is a Porsche, however they’ll know when they hear it…”
2016 Porsche Panamera
The 2016 Panamera is the final first-gen model year ever produced.
It features the traditional exterior design and interior styling, earning accolades as one of the more fuel-efficient choices in the fiercely competitive luxury sedan market.
The model provides athletic handling, refined driver assistance tech, and a multitude of variations and options.
Based on reviews by owners online, these are the noteworthy aspects of the model:
- Handling
- Steering
- Appearance
- Engine
- Interior
- Value for money
- Spaciousness
Depending on the trim level you select, the EPA claims that owners can expect anywhere between 18 MPG to 22 MPG under combined city and highway driving conditions.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2016 Porsche Panamera, Edmunds Review:
“This car is very sexy. The lines are gorgeous and I feel like a million bucks when I drive it. The handling is wonderful, sport mode makes it even more aggressive and more of a racing feel. I love this car and could not be happier with my choice. I was looking for a high end luxury sports car that could still handle 4 passengers. There is no other car quite like this…”
Consumer Scores For Best Porsche Panamera Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2023 Porsche Panamera | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2022 Porsche Panamera | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 |
| 2021 Porsche Panamera | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2019 Porsche Panamera | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2018 Porsche Panamera | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2017 Porsche Panamera | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2016 Porsche Panamera | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: 12 Best Sports Cars For Towing (With Pictures)
What Are The Worst Years For The Porsche Panamera?
2011 and 2012 Porsche Panamera
The 2011 and 2012 Panamera model years are the most problematic models ever produced according to NHTSA data.
There were a variety of issues revolving around the engine system, including the following:
- Coolant leakage
- Fuel pump issues
- Camshaft bolt damage
- Check engine indicator flashing
- Loss of engine power
- Vehicle stalling
“Coolant warning light on – seeing leak coolant warning light for coolant level comes on. Seeing a leak at a hose. Leaking at coolant bypass hose under intake. Coolant pipes in thermostat housing are coming loose at the epoxy joint. Chassis system failure, the car will stop abruptly on roads…” – CarProblemZoo.com
“Camshaft bolts fractured. Vehicle was stationary and was getting an oil change at a Porsche mechanic. This could have resulted in fatalities and further engine damage had I been driving the vehicle.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2011 Porsche Panamera had a total of 8 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 43 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2012 Porsche Panamera had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 10 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Camshaft bolts sheared off
- Various sensory issues
- Antifreeze adhesive failure
- Defective radiator pump
- Steering pulls to the left
2013, 2014, and 2015 Porsche Panamera
The 2013, 2014, and 2015 Panamera models have seen more complaints than usual. Our research points to four key issues: engine, transmission, brakes, and the electrical system.
The most frequently reported issue, however, is sudden unintended acceleration (SUA).
Owners reported various situations where the vehicle accelerated without pressing the gas pedal, including during a cold start, while halted at a stoplight, and while cruising on a highway.
“I was driving very slow out of my driveway to turn left into the street of my subdivision but the steering wheel did not turn and the car suddenly accelerated. I hit the brakes but nothing happened and the car kept going straight hitting the fence and the house ahead and crashed on the break wall. The airbag did not deploy. The car is totaled…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2013 Porsche Panamera had a total of 8 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2014 Porsche Panamera had a total of 43 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 16 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2015 Porsche Panamera had a total of 1 complaint on CarComplaints.com and 7 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Sudden unintended acceleration
- Air conditioning not working properly
- Will not start
- PCM constantly reboots
2010 Porsche Panamera
The 2010 Panamera, the first-ever model produced, had its fair share of problems.
Specifically, owners have raised concerns about a faulty high-pressure fuel pump, resulting in inconsistent vehicle performance, marked by episodes of power loss and stalling.
“Failure of the high pressure fuel pump caused loss of power. Vehicle driven to Porsche dealer who was too busy to do a scan for an entire week and sent me away on a 65 mph highway. My repair shop scanned and identified the problem. Car at home to be towed into a Porsche dealer for repairs. Cannot be driven because loss of power could cause sudden stop and serious accident on highway.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2010 Porsche Panamera had a total of 1 complaint on CarComplaints.com and 5 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- PCM reboot issues
2020 Porsche Panamera
The 2020 Panamera, though not as fraught with issues as the earlier model years mentioned, still received a number of complaints due to a malfunctioning coolant pump.
Additionally, some owners encountered electrical damage because of this issue.
“Received a recall notice from Porsche yesterday regarding a potential wiring problem with the climate control coolant pump that, under certain humid conditions, could result in an electrical short and engine fire…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2020 Porsche Panamera had a total of 5 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Climate control issues
- Loss of power and acceleration
- Electrical system issues
- Coolant pump problems
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 3 | 0 |
| 2022 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 2 | 3 |
| 2020 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 5 | 1 |
| 2019 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 2018 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 4 | 6 |
| 2017 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 1 | 4 |
| 2016 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 4 | 4 |
| 2015 Porsche Panamera | 1 | 7 | 3 |
| 2014 Porsche Panamera | 4 | 16 | 3 |
| 2013 Porsche Panamera | 0 | 8 | 3 |
| 2012 Porsche Panamera | 3 | 10 | 5 |
| 2011 Porsche Panamera | 8 | 43 | 5 |
| 2010 Porsche Panamera | 1 | 5 | 1 |
What Problems Do Porsche Panamera Have?
- Plastic coolant lines broke
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Porsche Panamera?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Audi A7 | 8.9 | $72,000 – $80,550 | City: 22 /Highway: 30 |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class | 8.8 | $114,500 – $229,00 | City: 12 – 20 /Highway: 20 – 28 |
| BMW 7-Series | 8.7 | $96,400 – $121,300 | City: 18 – 25 /Highway: 25 – 31 |
| Genesis G90 | 8.7 | $89,200 – $99,500 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 24 – 26 |
| Porsche Panamera | 8.4 | $92,400 – $206,800 | City: 15 – 18 /Highway: 20 – 24 |
| Audi A8 | 8.0 | $87,800 | City: 19 /Highway: 28 |
| Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class | 7.7 | $76,500 | City: 22 /Highway: 30 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 14 Hybrid Cars with Apple CarPlay (With Pictures)
References
- https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/porsche/panamera
- https://www.edmunds.com/porsche/panamera/
- https://www.kbb.com/porsche/panamera/
- https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/porsche/panamera
- https://www.carcomplaints.com/Porsche/Panamera/
- https://www.carproblemzoo.com/porsche/panamera/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
