Spy shots of the 2023 Porsche Panamera: the second batch of updates.

Porsche engineers are out testing the updated Panamera, suggesting that the current generation of this big fastback hatch is about to receive a second update.

The current Panamera was introduced to the market as a 2017 model and received its first update in 2021, but that update focused on the powertrain, resulting in the exterior and interior design being largely unchanged since the original market launch.

The prototype reveals a new front mask design featuring large side intakes and a newly shaped center intake. A second center intake located just above the license plate has also been added.

The front mask also features Porsche's narrow slit daytime running light design, which has already been used on the 911, 718, and Cayenne and was just added to the Macan, which received its own second update for 2022.

Although not pictured, the prototype's dash was completely covered.

It is difficult to gauge when this second update will be introduced, but most likely the 2023 model, as the Cayenne will be getting its own update. Both models will likely share powertrains and interior technology. An updated version of the Panamera Sport Turismo Wagon should also be available around this time.

One powertrain tweak could be an increase in the output of the range-topping Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid; for the 2021 update, output from the plug-in hybrid model's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine and electric motor combo, raised to a maximum output of 689 hp and 642 lb-ft of torque. This is not surprising, as rivals like the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63S E Performance and the Tesla Model S Plaid produce 843 hp and 1,020 hp, respectively.

One might wonder why Porsche is introducing a second update to the Panamera. It could be that Porsche plans to extend the life of the current Panamera until a battery-electric successor arrives, similar to what it is doing with the Macan, which will have an electric successor in 2023.

Recall that Porsche predicts that by 2030, more than 80% of its sales will be EVs, with the rest being 911s.