Porsche has added to the Panamera range a harder, more aggressive GTS model that boasts 424 bhp and a more fast-driving-biased chassis setup.

The traditional GTS letters stand for Gran Turismo Sport, which explains the car’s intentions. As well as being a car designed to cover large distances in comfort, the GTS is, more than any other Panamera, designed as a performance car.

Engine response from the 4.8-litre naturally-aspirated V8 has been tuned to be more intense and exciting than it is in the Panamera S and 4S. With 30 bhp more it isn’t significantly faster in the real world, but it’s designed to feel it.

The GTS uses the four-wheel-drive system from the 4S, alongside a PDK gearbox as standard. At its launch, Porsche showed a promotional video showing the GTS enjoying some long and wild powerslides, so the initial suggestion is that more power is sent to the rear wheels than in the Panamera 4S.

Despite weighing nearly two tonnes, the GTS will hit 62 mph in 4.5 seconds and go on to a top speed of 179 mph.

What should particularly excite keen drivers is the Sound Symposer feature, which takes the actual vibrations between the throttle valve and air filter and amplifies it into the cabin via the A-pillar, creating much louder sound inside the car while maintaining authenticity.

The GTS has adaptive air suspension that can self-level, as well as constantly adjusting to tailor itself to changing road conditions.