The Porsche Panamera came out as a four-door GT said to fulfill the vision of Ferdinand Porsche. This vision was executed such that the Porsche could still maintain its reputation as a sport car manufacturer. How this model fares in striking a balance between these two images is a whole another matter.

Pros

The Panamera offers several engine options in its line-up: from the 3.0-litre V6 petrol that has a hybrid system, the 3.0-litre diesel V6 or the optional 4.8-litre V8 that can or cannot include a four-wheel drive. There’s also the 3.6-litre V6 that can include either the PDK double-clutch gearbox or a four-wheel drive. In terms of power, there’s 493bhp that’s added to the Turbo, while the Turbo S is a serious upgrade at 543bhp.

In terms of design, the Panamera derives most of its elements from the 911. From the high-set front wings, falling side window line, to the bonnet, familiar traits abound in the car’s overall look. But how it fares on its own is seen in how the hatchback’s lines work with the two-door coupe look. The Panamera owns such a unique combination with its roofline curves. Traditional, signature Porsche elements are included as well in the mix: there’s the power buldge of the engine up front, and hence the not flat look of the bonnet. The Turbo hatchback has a more luxurious version of the automatic pop-up spoiler, but all other vehicles in the line-up include this feature. The Turbo sets itself apart by having the spoiler rise up and showcase two winglets as it reaches outwards.

The Panamera impresses with its interior finish. Quality is witnessed all around in terms of material and design. Each element of the space transitions smoothly into the other, as a tall centre console is seen all throughout. A high-set gear level even extends all the way to the back and there’s still enough space for two individual chairs at the back. Seats are readily adjustable and the front area offers a good view. Front seats are quite comfortable and the driving position easily adjustable.

The hybrid system allows for better interaction between the electric motor and petrol engine, so we recommend anyone after the seamless transition and speed turn around. We also recommend the 4.8-litre V8 as it guarantees 62mph in just 4.8 seconds; plus it’s less noisy and brutal than the Turbo.

Cons

In terms of interior space, the Panamera has four seats as opposed to the typical five.  But given such a design, a saloon boot instead of a hatchback is expected. Unfortunately veering away from convention doesn’t work too well with the Panamera’s look and function.

The downside to the driving position is its limited view. The sloping rear tailgate plus the small and high window will give the driver some difficulty looking out. Minor controls found on the audio and navigation system are too small in size and can be a bit of a hassle. Nonetheless the dash layout is practical and easy to sift through as expected from Porsche.

                The German holding company Porsche Automobil Holding SE has created in 2010 a full size luxury car as an addition to its superior line of cars. This was called the Porsche Panamera type number 970, which has a front engine, rear wheel drive or front engine, four wheel drive layout. This is assembled in Leipzig, Germany and was displayed at the 13^th Auto Shanghai International Automobile Show in April 2009.   

                In April 2007, a spy video of the Panamera was released on the internet, and it was only in September of the following year that a teaser video of the car was released by the manufacturer. The Panamera is available as a five door fastback and as a Gran Turismo, or a high performance luxury car designed for long distance driving. The name Panamera was derived from the Carrera Panamericana race, and was created as a product of the Porsche 989 concept way back in the 1980s.

                Among the key competitors of Porsche Panamera include the Audi 8, the BMW 7 Series, BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, Mercedes Benz S Class, Mercedes Benz CLS-Class, Aston Martin Rapide, and the Maserati Quattroporte. Other versions of the car include the Panamera Turbo S, the Panamera S hybrid, and the Panamera Diesel. The Panamera Platinum Edition was also marketed in October 2012 as a limited edition version, where each dealer gets two samples at most.