Next-Generation Porsche Panamera to Get Paris Debut

Volkswagen AG’s Porsche unit will introduce the second-generation Panamera sedan in September at the Paris auto show.

Continuing the original's coupe-like styling, the all-new Panamera will be built on VW's lightweight MSB architecture. The flexible platform also will carry Bentley, Bugatti and Lamborghini models.

In addition to the base sedan, Porsche is developing a wagon-like “shooting brake” version of the Panamera, reports Automotive News Europe. The online newspaper notes that this model’s added functionality is popular with Europeans.

Sales of the base sedan will kick off later this year in Europe followed next year in China and the U.S., ANE says. The shooting brake variant will be launched in 2017 in Europe.

Global sales of the Panamera, which peaked in 2012 at 29,000 units, fell 31% last year to 17,200 units. This made it the lowest-volume model in Porsche’s lineup, if the 718 Boxster/Cayman are counted together. China, is the Panamera's largest market followed by the U.S.