X5 vs Panamera
Author
Discussion

BartW

Original Poster:

1,693 posts

196 months

Monday 18th September 2023
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Hi,
Very uneven comparison and I could not decide whether to put this in BmW or Porsche subforum but here goes:

I am comparing the two:

BMW X5 50e MSport Pro/Tech pack against Panamera 4 Ehybrid Platinum (5seats).

Background:

Currently leasing BMW 745e Msport pro. Love it. Got / had two other G series BMWs. Love the brand and their cars. So here is the bias.

Why X5:
- BMw appeal
- a lor of kit as standard
- technologically more advanced
- more reliable?

Why not:
- SUV - I can’t gel with the concept. Medium size hatchback on stilts… So handling and high speed performance compromised

Why Panamera:
- Porsche appeal - and I always wanted one. And nearly bought when I was selling my beloved (at the time) GenF GTS vxr8 (with 850bhp)
- faster 0-60 by a blink, and 2seconds faster to 200kmh
- is not an SUV and it feels good inside. Almost like a tailored suit

Why not:
- technologically previous generation car
- less reliable?
- it’s a VW


You might ask why such an uneven comparison, so:

I have currently got a 745e. I can't stretch to the new one. Too much money.

Also, the new car has to be a PHEV to help with BIK. It will be a daily, and it will be taken to Germany for a sprint (or few). Hence the high speed performance of some importance.

Both vehicles are being considered on Contract Hire. BMW @ £44k for the contract vs Porsche @ £47k over 3 years. Both have similar power and performance. Both appeal visually.

I know the choice will be mine, and I am leaning towards the porker, but I suppose I am seeking reassurance that "it will be OK".

Opinions please? smile


Thanks
Bart




TREMAiNE

4,157 posts

176 months

Monday 18th September 2023
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BartW said:
Why Panamera:
- Porsche appeal - and I always wanted one.
That's your answer.

richhead

3,195 posts

38 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
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BMW appeal????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

Jamescrs

6,240 posts

92 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
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richhead said:
BMW appeal????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
So you don't like the brand? Many others do, including the OP.

Op I'd say of.you have always wanted the Porsche then go for that. I too would take a Saloon over an SUV.

BartW

Original Poster:

1,693 posts

196 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
quotequote all
Thank you guys.

After I posted I re-read my deliberations, and self counselled into the Panamera. I then read full Platinum spec, and to my surprise it would have everything that the current 745e does (apart from dash leather), including door soft close, so I am sold smile

I just wonder what might be the Porsche policy when it comes to the facelift model. We are looking at July 2024 delivery, by which time facelift is going to be out. So is, surely, new pricing, and not necessarily current spec line-up.

Dimebars

1,060 posts

121 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
quotequote all
BartW said:
Thank you guys.

After I posted I re-read my deliberations, and self counselled into the Panamera. I then read full Platinum spec, and to my surprise it would have everything that the current 745e does (apart from dash leather), including door soft close, so I am sold smile

I just wonder what might be the Porsche policy when it comes to the facelift model. We are looking at July 2024 delivery, by which time facelift is going to be out. So is, surely, new pricing, and not necessarily current spec line-up.
Porsche's website is rammed with Panameras available for almost immediate delivery, so check there for a matching car first

Porsche will not price protect your order. If the list goes up, so does your order. If the facelift happens before your build, then you'd have a facelift car. Beware spec changes though

Ezra

892 posts

54 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
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You'll not regret the Panamera. Used to be a marmite car, maybe less so now. But they're awesome. Unless you're a total driving god, it 90% a 911, all the comfort and luxury you need with 5 seats. With 4wd, the only car you ever need.

CSK423

829 posts

234 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
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Have a similar dilemma between X6 M50i and a Panamera ST.

Currently have the X6 and it's a great car for carrying kids and all the junk that goes with them along with the SUV driving position, pace is also great.

However I've always had an itch to scratch regards porsche (911 specifically but that doesn't suit for now) and the panamera ST would do this. Especially the 4/4s E Hybrid, similar performance or better if it's the S. I also like the electric range they give which would be ideal for the local run rounds you end up doing for your kids.

I do think the ST boot might just be too neat for us though. Interested to see where this thread goes.


BartW

Original Poster:

1,693 posts

196 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
quotequote all
Dimebars said:
Porsche's website is rammed with Panameras available for almost immediate delivery, so check there for a matching car first

Porsche will not price protect your order. If the list goes up, so does your order. If the facelift happens before your build, then you'd have a facelift car. Beware spec changes though
I only need it in July 2024, so no rush, but the whole price vs spec change bothers me. It is almost clear that the Platinum will be no longer in the facelift spec. I wonder about the price too...

jonny996

2,711 posts

244 months

Tuesday 19th September 2023
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At £47K over 3 years , I would be buying a used one for £50K

BartW

Original Poster:

1,693 posts

196 months

Wednesday 20th September 2023
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jonny996 said:
At £47K over 3 years , I would be buying a used one for £50K
Can you get a used 2023 Panamera for that money?


BartW

Original Poster:

1,693 posts

196 months

Wednesday 20th September 2023
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QUICK UPDATE:


So I drove it today...

Lovely car. Potent when pushed, and makes the right noises.

But comparing to the current 745e:

- it feels veeeeryyyy heavy
- it feels it needs a lot of push when you want it to go fast and keep at it
- space in the back feels very limited
- dash is fake material (unless you buy leather plus)

Admittedly, I though it was a done deal, but I left feeling more puzzled than when I went in.


Also, in view of the fact I don't need the car until July 2024:
- finance is only valid 90 days
- car might go up in price
- spec may change


So really no great benefit "thinking" you are buying one today, as it could all change.


Back to the drawing board, and more thinking...