As if it couldn’t get any better, Porsche is already planning the next-gen Panamera

By Joe Mahan Published March 21, 2014

porsches modular standard platform panamera — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The goal for the Porsche’s Modular Standard (MSB) platform is to drop 200 pounds – or 1/3rd the weight of an average American – from the current Panamera. This will likely achieved through the use of an aluminum frame and carbon fiber body panels.

Volkswagen Group will also use the Porsche-designed MSB chassis for the next-gen Bentley Continental lineup. Back in 2012, when the MSB platform was introduced it was as seen as a viable platform. Now, though, Porsche has found a way to utilize the maligned platform and is now giving is a glimpse at the engines it might support.

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Hopefully these drivetrains will not have the same problems currently ailing Porsche Gt3 owners. To its credit, the MSB engines should be more slightly less potent than that of the explosive Gt3.

No official specs have been released on the forthcoming V6 and V8 engines but they will surely feature direct injection and the best technology Porsche has to offer.

The next generation Porsche Panamera is due to launch in 2017 and will be the perfect platform to showcase the new – and certainly more powerful – Porsche engines.

We already love the current Panamera. And the prospects of an even stiffer, more powerful model has us weak at the knees. We’ll be following this story closely so be sure to check back soon for more Porsche MSB news.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Joe Mahan is an intern at Digital Trends working in the Cars section. He is currently a Junior at the University of Portland…

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