As much as it was lauded for bringing Porsche driving dynamics to the executive sedan class, Porsche's 'hunchback' Panamera took some flack for the way it looked.
While the facelifted model, which has just reached South Africa, has hardly made an ugly-duckling-to-swan transformation, most buyers should find it a little easier on the eye.
The most notable design changes take place at the rear end, where a widened rear windscreen and spoiler give the car a more ground-hugging appearance. The taillights have been redesigned too and customers can order them with LEDs.
Those subtle styling differences you see on the outside belie the more revolutionary upgrade that's taken place beneath the skin.
NEW ENGINES
Not only does the new four-seater usher in an advanced new plug-in hybrid model - available later in the year - but the more mainstream S and 4S models receive a completely new, and more efficient, 3-litre twin-turbo V6.
Replacing the less-powerful V8 engine that was used previously, the new V6 pushes 309kW at 6000rpm and 520Nm from 1750 - allowing a 5.1-second 0-100km/h run and 287km/h top end. Combined fuel consumption is quoted at 8.7 l/100km.
The Panamera and Panamera4 base models continue with the familiar naturally aspirated 3.6-litre motor, and it receives a little more perk with maximum power up from 220kW to 228kW while torque remains at 400Nm.
Unlike the S models, the Panamera GTS has not ditched its V8 engine, its 4.8-litre unit also receiving an upgrade (from 316kW to 324kW) and continuing to offer 520Nm of twist. Expect to get to 100 in 4.4 seconds and reach 288km/h.
The big dog is still the Panamera Turbo, thrusted forward by an even livelier 4.8 V6 good for 382kW (up from 368) and 700Nm, a 4.1-second 0-100 and 305km/h top speed.
Those wanting to make a more responsible statement needn't give up too much in the way of performance with the aforementioned S E-Hybrid, which mates a supercharged 3-litre V6 to an electric motor.
36 ELECTRIC KILOMETRES
The drivetrain is rated at 306kW and 590Nm - enough to launch it to 100 in 5.5 seconds and bring on a top speed of 270km/h. Best of all it'll run for up to 36km/h on electricity alone (at up to 135km/h), a factor that helped it achieve an NEDC average fuel consumption figure of 3.1 l/100km.
The other frugal option in the range is the 184kW/550Nm 3-litre V6 diesel, which sips 6.3 l/100km.
The Panamera's mechanical makeover extends to the PDK dual-clutch gearbox, which was redeveloped to improve both fuel consumption and comfort. Furthermore, larger chassis mounts on the front suspension aim to improve comfort while advanced steering box mounts are in place to enable a more direct response.
After sampling it on its international launch earlier this year, Jesse Adams, of Star Motoring, remarked that the E-Hybrid was exceptionally comfortable:
"Total weight sits at just over two tons, and while it's nowhere near as willing to be flicked around like its GTS counterpart might, the extra heft does make for a super comfy ride.
"Besides its extra bulk, there's almost no compromise from normal models, and other than the fact that it's possible to creep around in silent EV mode until you press the throttle past 80 percent, this could very well be any Panamera from behind the wheel."
The new range, besides the hybrid, is available now from Porsche Centres in Joburg, Cape Town and Umhlanga.
PRICES
Panamera - R958 000
Panamera Diesel - R950 000
Panamera 4 - R1 004 000
Panamera S - R1 224 000
Panamera S E-Hybrid - R1 279 000
Panamera 4S - R1 271 000
Panamera GTS - R1 419 000
Panamera Turbo - R1 996 000