Spy Shots: 2009 Porsche Panamera

These shots represent the latest stage in development of Porsche's upcoming Panamera sedan. For the first time, Porsche's engineers have removed a large quantity of plastic camouflage and cladding to reveal some of the body work lurking underneath. Specifically, an extending rear wing can be seen sprouting from the rear hatch and the sloping roofline and large frontal area are clearly visible. At this stage, the Panamera is far from aesthetically pleasing. Actually, it's quite hideous. It appears Porsche has attempted to translate the styling that has worked so well for so long on the 911 onto this new sedan - to somewhat disastrous results. On the bright side, production is still a while off, so there's plenty of time for changes to be made in the styling department before the car's expected debut at next year's Geneva Auto Show. The Cayenne could hardly be called a knockout when it stepped onto the scene back in 2002. But in the time since, the SUV with the Porsche snout has become the automaker's best-selling vehicle. Even if the Panamera remains the way we see it now, it may still have a chance for success in the same way.