Porsche’s Sonderwunsch bespoke division is prepared to go remarkably far for customers seeking something beyond the brand’s standard lineup, with Alexander Fabig confirming that even a manual-transmission Panamera could be possible.
While owning a standard Porsche may already represent a dream for many enthusiasts, the automaker’s Sonderwunsch department serves customers with the resources and imagination to pursue more individualized projects.
Porsche Sonderwunsch Pushes the Limits of Customization
The Drive spoke with Alexander Fabig of Porsche’s Sonderwunsch division during the recent Monterey Car Week, where he offered insight into how far the program may go to accommodate demanding clients.
One notable topic was the possibility of engine and manual-transmission swaps. Fabig said more people are interested in rowing through the gears than simply adding more horsepower.
When asked specifically whether Porsche could produce a manual Panamera, Fabig responded enthusiastically: “Yes, yes, yes. That’s very good; I will use this as an example from now on [when people ask about the Sonderwunsch].”
What About a Porsche Panamera Cabriolet?
Fabig was also asked about the rumored Panamera convertible project. He said the Panamera Cabriolet serves as an example of how far Sonderwunsch is willing to indulge customer requests.
“If you are asking for it, we would do it, but we are not working on that. It’s not an active project,” Fabig said.
Sonderwunsch Lets Customers Shape Their Own Porsche
According to Fabig, the Sonderwunsch program gives customers an opportunity to become the creators of their own cars while working with Porsche’s designers and engineers.
Regulations and road laws also play a major role in determining what is possible. A key consideration is whether a customer wants the finished vehicle to remain road-legal.
Although Sonderwunsch projects have often focused on the Porsche 911, the company has recently expanded the list of models eligible for the program’s signature treatment. Fabig had previously confirmed that Porsche is already receiving inquiries for bespoke work on some four-door models, although most requests remain focused on two-door vehicles.
The program now also accepts restoration and “restomod” projects involving older Porsche models, giving owners an option to refresh existing vehicles while adding a more individual touch.
From potential manual-transmission conversions to highly customized body styles and restoration projects, Porsche Sonderwunsch continues to offer customers the opportunity to pursue bespoke ideas with the expertise of the brand’s designers and engineers.
