2010 Porsche Panamera: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Porsche Panamera debuts as a large, 4-passenger, 4-door hatchback. Rear-wheel-drive S and all-wheel-drive 4S and Turbo models are offered. All use a front-mounted 4.8-liter V8 engine and 7-speed dual-clutch automated-manual transmission that behaves much like an automatic. S and 4S have 400 horsepower, while the Turbo has 500 horsepower. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, front- and rear-side airbags, and front-knee airbags. All models have an engine stop and start feature that shuts off the engine when the car is stopped and restarts it when the brake pedal is released. An adaptive air suspension is standard on the Turbo and optional on the S and 4S. Other available features include 4-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, split-folding rear seat, a rear refrigerator, steering-linked bi-xenon headlights, adaptive cruise control, and DVD entertainment. This evaluation is based on preview drives.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have six-figure price tags.

Our Best Buys are the Hyundai Genesis, Lexus LS, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A8 and Cadillac DTS.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Fisker Karma, Jaguar XJ Series, Lexus LS, and Porsche Panamera. The BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class gain gas/electric hybrid models for 2010.