The 2025 Porsche Panamera, in a yet-to-be-revealed version, has set an impressive Nürburgring lap time, highlighting Porsche’s commitment to performance and engineering excellence. This unreleased Panamera, which is speculated to be a hybrid, underscores the brand’s innovation and relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.
Earlier this year, Porsche introduced a new generation of the Panamera hatchback as a 2024 model, although not all versions have been released to the public. Among the anticipated releases is a new flagship model, which Porsche announced on Monday, completed the full 12.9 miles of the Nürburgring in a remarkable 7:24.17.
This lap time, although slower than the 2025 Porsche Taycan Turbo GT’s impressive 7:07.55—achieved with an available Weissach package that removes the electric sedan’s rear seats—still surpasses the Tesla Model S Plaid Track Package’s 7:25.231. The Taycan Turbo GT generates a staggering 1,092 horsepower, while the Tesla Model S Plaid is close behind with 1,020 horsepower. Porsche has not yet disclosed the exact horsepower of the new Panamera flagship but has confirmed that it is powered by a robust V-8 hybrid powertrain.
Looking ahead to the 2025 Porsche Panamera, Porsche has unveiled the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid. This model features a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine with a single electric motor integrated into an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, delivering a total output of 670 horsepower. It is widely speculated that the new flagship model could be a Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, which might feature a similar powertrain configuration but with even greater power output.
Behind the wheel for the record-setting Nürburgring run was Porsche test driver Lars Kern. Kern credited the car’s exceptional lap time to its superior handling capabilities, enhanced by the new Active Ride suspension system. This advanced suspension technology helps keep the vehicle more stable and planted during hard cornering, allowing for more aggressive and confident driving on the challenging track.
Additionally, the 2025 Porsche Panamera was fitted with an optional Carbon Aerokit, which includes a four-way adjustable rear spoiler. This aerodynamic package, combined with the specially developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, contributed significantly to the car’s performance on the Nürburgring. The tires, measuring 275/35ZR21 at the front and 325/30ZR21 at the rear, were designed specifically for the Panamera, ensuring optimal grip and handling.
Porsche is already accepting orders in Japan for the updated GR86 ahead of its official launch on August 1. Due to the anticipated high demand for the Ridge Green Limited edition, Porsche is implementing a lottery system for potential buyers. Enthusiasts can express their interest in purchasing the special edition at dedicated GR Garage locations until July 28. Those selected through the lottery will be able to buy the car but will have to wait until October for delivery.
The base model GR86 starts at 3,518,000 yen, approximately $22,120 at current exchange rates. The Ridge Green Limited edition is predictably more expensive, priced at 3,897,000 yen ($24,500) for the manual version and 3,995,000 yen ($25,100) for the automatic.
Some images show the GR86 with steel wheels, part of the cup car designed for a specific racing series. This model competes against the equivalent Subaru BRZ cup car, which was updated earlier this year.
Overall, Porsche’s new Panamera, with its advanced engineering and superior performance, sets a new benchmark in the automotive industry. The combination of a powerful hybrid powertrain, cutting-edge suspension technology, and specialized aerodynamics and tires underscores Porsche’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive performance and innovation. As more details emerge about this flagship model, it is clear that Porsche remains at the forefront of high-performance automotive engineering.
