2018 Porsche Panamera

Pros: High performance; sophisticated suspension

Cons: Prices start in the stratosphere and go up; big car seats only four

CG Says: The 2018 Porsche Panamera adds a wagon-like Sport Turismo bodystyle. The Sport Turismo has more cargo capacity than the existing 4-door hatchback. There is also a new, more powerful plug-in hybrid. The Turbo S E-Hybrid combines a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with an electric motor for a combined 680 hp. The Turbo S E-Hybrid can travel up to 31 miles on electric power alone and is said to be capable of 192 mph and accelerating 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Panamera is a premium large 4-door hatchback with seating for four that was redesigned for 2017. In addition to the standard-length Panamera, there is an extended-wheelbase Executive version with more rear-passenger room. The base engine is a 330-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6; the two step-up non-hybrid engine options are a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 that makes 440 hp, and a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that puts out 550 hp. The plug-in E-Hybrid has a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 paired with an electric motor for a combined 462 hp. The E-Hybrid can travel up to 31 miles on electric power alone. Porsche says the 2.9-liter V6 Panamera 4S has a top speed of 179 mph and is capable of 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds, and the V8-powered Panamera Turbo tops out at 190 mph and does 0-60 in 3.6 seconds. All engines are mated to an 8-speed automated-manual transmission. The base V6 is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; the other engines come standard with AWD. Rear-wheel steering for sharper turn-in and high-speed stability is available. Inside, there is a new control system with 12.3-inch screen. Available features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert, night vision, lane-keep assist, LED headlights, heated/ventilated/massaging front and rear seats, and adaptive suspension. Although prices are steep, the 2018 Porsche Panamera has a high level of performance and precise suspension control.