The recently revised Porsche Panamera has been joined by a new Turbo S variant, delivering 20bhp more than its predecessor.

With a power output of 562bhp from its twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the Turbo S now accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 3.8 seconds while achieving an average fuel consumption of 27.7 mpg and CO2 emissions of 239 g/km. That’s an 11 per cent improvement over its predecessor and the same as the 49bhp less powerful Panamera Turbo.

It will make its debut at the forthcoming Tokyo Motor Show prior to first deliveries in January 2014. Orders can be placed now with prices starting from £131,049.

If you’re already familiar with Porsche’s Gran Turismo four-seater then little has changed apart from its relentless progress towards being faster, more fuel efficient and providing an even better driving experience.

The list of dynamic technology features is now even longer; Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) improves stability under load, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) Plus works on the rear wheels to maximise traction, while Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) combines adaptive air suspension with adaptive damper control and ties the whole system together.

Porsche-Panamera-TurboS_G5The facelifted Porsche Panamera Turbo S with its exclusive Palladium metallic paint finish..

Porsche Traction Management (PTM) refers to the Panamera’s all-wheel drive system, Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) its 7-speed double-clutch gearshift system and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), the high-performance braking system which eliminates brake fade and wear.

Visually, you’ll be pushed to recognise the new front bumper with larger air intakes, redesigned head lights and larger rear window – along with a new four-way rear spoiler painted in the same colour as the exterior.

The distinguishing features of the Turbo S include; 20-inch 911 Turbo II wheels fitted with 285/40 and 295/35 tyres, a new Palladium paint colour, unique Dark Burl Walnut interior package and standard two-tone leather trim.

The 49bhp increase in power over the Panamera Turbo has been achieved by fitting new turbochargers with larger compressors for increased air flow and improved combustion at high speeds. The injection system now operates at a pressure of 140 bar – up from 120 bar – while pistons are made from a new aluminium alloy together with specially coated piston rings.

Despite the increase in power, the engine continues to deliver even more torque – spread throughout a slightly wider range of revs (from 2,250 and 5,000 rpm). Under normal driving the engine delivers 553 lb-ft (750Nm) of torque, while an overboost function sees this increase to 590 lb-ft (800Nm) of torque when overtaking.

In-gear acceleration is likely to be improved, although Porsche have yet to confirm this.

A ‘stretched’ Panamera

  • Porsche-Panamera-TurboS_G1
  • Porsche-Panamera-TurboS_G0

New to the range is an Executive version of the Panamera Turbo S, which offers a 15 centimetre longer wheelbase and provides 12 centimetres more footwell space for rear passengers. Other features include privacy glass with thermal and noise-insulation properties, a special interior lighting package and larger centre console at the rear.

Priced at 9.5% more than the standard Turbo S, the Executive is slightly less fuel efficient with consumption of 27.4 mpg and CO2 emissions of 242 g/km.

Both models can be fitted with an optional sports exhaust system, which uses an acoustic channel to direct engine sound directly into the interior. This can switched on at the touch of a button allowing drivers to revel in the mellifluous sound of Panamera’s V8.