Porsche is only 2 years away from completely altering the dynamic of their automotive company because in 2009 Porsche will release their first ever 4 door sports car. To make the Panamera practical for everyday use, the engine will be moved to the front of the car. This change will allow for a traditional trunk with improved (over the 911) cargo capacity. Moving past the 4 doors, Porsche plans 20,000 units annually. The design of the car reminds me of a stretched 911 and a flattened Cayenne rolled into one interesting vehicle. Expect the Panamera to be marketed at a true sports car with all of the functionality of a 4 door daily driver while competing against the Mercedes CLS and the future Aston Martin Rapide.

The three pictures you see here were taken on the famous Nürburgring test ring earlier last week. Surprisingly, the test mule is almost fully visible so I wouldn't expect major changes for the production version. Currently there are two planned 8-cylinder engines slated for use. The base car will offer a naturally-aspirated version generating a reported 350 horsepower and offer reasonable performance. The upper level Panameras will offer a twin turbo variant of the same engine that produces a generous, smile inducing, 560 horsepower. Expect the official unveiling of the Panamera at the 2009 Geneva motor show.