The new platform, which was developed by the automaker’s Porsche Digital subsidiary and PCNA, enables customers to search by vehicle model and generation and includes additional filters for price, equipment, and packages, as well as interior and exterior vehicle colors.
For now, customers can only search for pre-owned and Certified Pre-Owned vehicles using the new Porsche Finder tool. Once users find that 911 GT2 RS, Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo, Macan crossover, or all-electric Taycan they’re looking for, they are directed to contact the specific Porsche dealership.
Porsche Cars North America has a bigger aim than just creating a nationwide search feature. Porsche Finder is part of a broader strategy to create a one-stop online shop where customers can complete the entire process of finding, buying, and financing a vehicle, PCNA CEO Klaus Zellmer said in a recent interview.
“We want to have a seamless e-commerce ecosystem for everything Porsche that’s the long-term vision,” Zellmer said, adding that this will eventually include the ability for customers to trade in their vehicle and complete the financing, insurance, and final web signature.
The company has already made some headway. In October, Porsche starting selling new and used vehicles online in the U.S. through a pilot program that initially involved 26 of the 192 dealerships in the country. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, dealerships have jumped at the chance to be included. One-third of Porsche dealerships in the U.S. will be a part of the digital pilot program by June, according to Zellmer.
“It just underlines how important this digital direction is for our business,” Zellmer said, “Even though we pride ourselves to be a brand that is all about the visceral experience, we also have to respect our customers’ wishes who want to look for a Porsche and pick from the whole variety in the United States from their iPad.”
There’s one caveat if you’re looking for the perfect classic 911. There aren’t many older models on the site at present, although that’s also usually the case with most Porsche dealerships. You can still search for important or mass production models throughout Porsche’s history including the 550 Spyder, the 914, and the 959—just in case.
