The GTS's star attraction is its torque-rich 4.8-liter V8, the same dry-sump, alloy-block engine as in the all-wheel-drive Panamera 4S but let off the leash a bit, with a higher redline (7, 100-rpm fuel shut-off), lumpier cam-lift logic, more aggressive transmission software (quicker, harder shifts available from the dual-clutch PDK gearbox), and additional cold-air boxes with active shutters behind lower lateral bumper intakes.
But with 3, 500 pounds of grand touring car to move, even this splendid engine direct-injection, dry-sump, a sky-high 13.5:1 compression ratio, 8, 700-rpm redline, 65-degree V12 can't hope to serve up the sensations of a track-focused machine, that distinctive corner-exiting moment when you jump into the throttle and the engine's torque hits you in the back like a bag of wet cement.