Porsche plans four-door coupe

Porsche has announced plans to build an all-new, four-door, four-seat sports coupe to hit the showrooms in 2009.

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Porsche has announced plans to build an all-new, four-door, four-seat sports coupe to hit the showrooms in 2009.

Unlike other Porsche sports models, the Panamera will have its engine fitted in the front. As well as its four doors and four seats, the extra space in the back will be a novel addition.

The rear-wheel drive Panamera will sit alongside the 911, Boxster and Cayenne 4x4 and will be built on a completely new platform – unlike the planned Cayman S due this year, which is based on the Boxster.

Dr Wendelin Wiedeking, Porsche's president and CEO, said: 'We have taken a lot of time in making this decision but we know one thing for sure: the Panamera is the right car for Porsche. In terms of performance, design and driving dynamics, it meets Porsche's high standards in every respect.'

Details of prices and engine options have not yet been released but the company says the car will be powered by 'various engines'. Porsche plans to invest more than one billion euros in developing the new coupe and hopes to recoup its investment by selling 20,000 vehicles per year worldwide.

Industry expert Professor Garel Rhys from the Cardiff Business School thinks the Panamera could be a success if Porsche does its homework.

He told Whatcar.com: 'Specialist car makers have experienced a quiet revolution over the past 10 years. Gone are the days when you rely on one or two models; manufacturers now have a full model range.

'Porsche needs to be very careful this time with the look and design and with the prices. Lots of people would actually prefer a front-engined car so as long as the vehicle is good enough to have a Porsche badge on the front, it could be successful.'

Whatcar.com would like to hear from you.
Is a front-engined, four-seat coupe really what you want from Porsche? The company has been successful with its Cayenne 4x4 but is it diluting its pedigree with cars such as the Panamera?

We'd like to hear your views. Click on one of the two links below and e-mail us with your thoughts. We’ll publish your opinions on Whatcar.com next week.

The Panamera will harm Porsche's reputation.

The Panamera will enhance Porsche's reputation.