What are the differences between the Panamera 4 and Panamera 4S?

[OHaven]

Here are the differences between the Panamera 4 and Panamera 4S: 1. Different brake caliper colors: The Panamera 4 has black brake calipers; the Panamera 4S has silver brake calipers. 2. Different body dimensions: The Panamera 4 measures 5015mm in length, 1931mm in width, and 1418mm in height; the Panamera 4S measures 4491mm in length, 1852mm in width, and 1296mm in height. 3. Different top speeds: The Panamera 4 has a top speed of 260km/h; the Panamera 4S has a top speed of 297km/h. 4. Different horsepower: The Panamera 4 uses a 3.0T engine with a maximum horsepower of 320ps; the Panamera 4S also uses a 3.0T engine but with a maximum horsepower of 420ps. 5. Different drive systems: The Panamera 4 is rear-wheel drive; the Panamera 4S is four-wheel drive.

[Trenton]

After driving for so many years, the most obvious difference between the Panamera 4 and 4S lies in the power. The 4 uses a 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo engine with around 330 horsepower, which is more than enough for daily driving, and the fuel consumption is relatively friendly, averaging about 12 liters in the city. The 4S, on the other hand, is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, starting at 550 horsepower. Step on the gas, and the acceleration will pin you to your seat. The price difference is quite significant, with the 4S costing hundreds of thousands more, but if you enjoy occasional spirited driving or mountain roads, the endless power reserve is truly exhilarating. The exhaust note of the 4S is also deeper and more robust, especially the popping sounds in Sport mode—it's just thrilling.

[StRosalie]

As someone who frequently drives long distances, I find the Panamera 4 to be more practical. While the 4S has stronger power, its V8 engine is too fuel-consuming, averaging around 14 liters on highways and even more in the city. The V6 in the 4 offers much more reasonable fuel consumption, with ample power for overtaking and lane changes, and the same comfortable chassis tuning. Price is the key point—the 4S's optional features are much more expensive, with ceramic brakes alone costing over 100,000 yuan, which isn't necessary for the average family. Moreover, maintenance costs for the 4S are higher, with things like spark plugs costing twice as much, and tires wearing out faster. If you're truly after a sense of luxury, spending the same amount on a well-equipped Panamera 4 with some practical add-ons is a smarter choice.

[VanMalia]

The difference between the Panamera 4 and 4S goes beyond just the engine. The 4S comes standard with a sports exhaust system, which produces a noticeably deeper and more robust sound when the valves are open compared to the 4. Although both models feature an all-wheel-drive chassis, the 4S boasts an upgraded braking system with larger brake discs and six-piston calipers, offering superior heat dissipation. The 4S also comes with larger wheels as standard—20 inches compared to the 4's starting size of 19 inches. The 4S offers greater potential for aftermarket modifications; a simple Stage 1 ECU tune can add over 50 horsepower. However, this comes at the cost of higher fuel consumption, increased maintenance expenses, and a significant rise in insurance premiums. If you're into car modifications and performance tuning, the 4S provides a better foundation to start with.

[LeAndres]

When it comes to differences, the most easily overlooked aspect is the driving quality. Last time I test drove both models simultaneously, the 4S tended to downshift more aggressively at low speeds due to its greater power reserve, lurching forward with just a slight press of the accelerator. In contrast, the 4 delivered smoother, more linear power output, making it less fatiguing in stop-and-go traffic. The acoustic experience also differed—the 4's V6 engine showed almost no vibration at idle, while the 4S's V8 produced noticeable subtle steering wheel tremors at red lights. Although both are four-door coupes, the 4S suits impatient drivers better, whereas the 4 leans toward comfortable commuting, with particularly noticeable differences for rear passengers.

[HectorLee]

From a long-term ownership perspective, the maintenance cost of the Panamera 4 is significantly lower. The V8 engine in the 4S requires 9 liters of oil per change, with labor costs several hundred yuan more expensive, and the air filter is twice as expensive as the V6's. The resale value is about the same, but parts for the 4 are more readily available, while some parts for the 4S need to be ordered as futures. There's also a notable difference in insurance costs, with the 4S typically costing four to five thousand yuan more annually. If you're not a performance enthusiast, the 4 has much less mechanical stress, lower engine bay temperatures for better durability, and longer brake pad life. For city commuting, the 4 is more worry-free and economical.