News Source: topspeed.com

The Panamera  has been around since 2009 and has only one restyling under its belt, having been mildly reworked for 2013. That’s about to change for 2017 as Porsche is clearly working on its successor. Our spy photographers were able to snag several shots of the updated Panamera  as it trotted over German roads wearing almost no camouflage.

The bare-bodied test mule affords us a rather unobstructed view at the Panamera’s future styling. Most of the changes are held within the front and rear fascias, as well as the side windows and character lines running along the doors. Its overall shape remains largely unchanged.

While Porsche  is understandably shy with the details, rumors suggest a new set of powertrain options will be among the generational changes. The rumors, a year old at this point, speculate an all-new V-6 and V-8 powerplant will replace the aging engines in the current car.

We suspect the 2017 Panamera will make its official debut sometime in early 2016, possibly at the Geneva Motor Show.  Pricing is likely to increase only slightly, keeping it competing against its current competitors.

Updated 01/29/2016: The upcoming Porsche Panamera was caught out for a new testing session. Hit "play" to have a glimpse at Panamera’s new navigation/hybrid screen.

Though still clouded in mystery, the updated Panamera wears a welcomed update for the 2017 model year. The front fascia has a decidedly sportier feel thanks to a lowered nose with more 911-like features. The lower grille carries a new design and LED turn signals brighten up the space.

Around the side, the Panamera’s new character lines are clearly visible. In the photo with the test mule side-by-side with the current car, the changes to the door and C-pillars are evident. The rear door openings now cut between the main window and the small, kinked window at the C-pillar. The current version’s doors take the kinked window with it when opened. The character line created by the side vent now runs further along the front doors, now grazing just under the door handles before continuing onto the rear doors.

Changes at the rear of the car are equally visible. The current Panamer’s rear hatch has a small, curved opening that is being replaced by what appears to be a larger, more squared-off hatch. That changes the way the rear looks, including the taillights, bumper, and lower fascia.

These spy photos don’t yet give us an idea of what Porsche has planned for the upcoming Panamera. We can, however, take cues form Porsche’s newest products, including the 2017 Macan GTS. The sporty little SUV now comes with a revised infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, 3D maps with satellite image overlay, and dynamic route calculations. Expect a similar system to be found within the Panamera’s dash.

Beyond updated electronics, it’s expected the Panamera will keep its cockpit-like cabin with its numerous controls.

The rumors surrounding Porsche’s new range of engines have much to do with the automaker’s use of the updated MSB platform. Called the Modular Standard Platform and designed for a family of vehicles, the structure is made of high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum.

Porsche’s new V-6 and V-8 engines will be designed to fit within the updated chassis.

These new engines will include gasoline, turbo, diesel, and hybrid versions like the current car. This gives customers the world over a wide selection of powertrains to choose from, letting customers dictate the type of car they buy.

We’ll update you as information is released. Prices are expected to only see a moderate increase. The current 2016 Panamera carries a starting price of $78,100 in the U.S., with prices rising well over $250,000 for the Panamera Exclusive Series.

The Panamera’s update comes at a perfect time, trailing the BMW 7 Series’ update by one model year and well ahead of the next Quattroporte update. Its long lines, wide variety of engine and drivetrain options, and its luxurious interior should keep the Panamera rolling off dealer showrooms.

It might not be the Porsche the purists want, but the Panamera helps bring large profits that help pay for 911 and Cayman development – something everyone can be happy about.

Expect more photos and more official news as time draws near. The 2017 Panamera should make its debut early in 2016, likely at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Stay tuned.