2019 Porsche Panamera

Pros: High performance; sophisticated suspension

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

CG Says: The 2019 Porsche Panamera gains a new GTS trim. Available in both the 4-hatchback and Sport Turismo wagon bodystyles, the GTS has a 453-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. Porsche says both versions accelerate 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and the hatchback can achieve a top speed of 181 mph, while the Sport Turismo can reach 179. Panamera is a premium large 4-door hatchback or 4-door wagon (Sport Turismo) with seating for four that was redesigned for 2017. In addition to the standard-length Panamera 4-door hatchback, there is an extended-wheelbase Executive version with more rear-passenger room. The base engine is a 330-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6; in addition to the new GTS, 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. There are two Hybrids. The base plug-in E-Hybrid has a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 paired with an electric motor for a combined 462 hp. The high-performance Turbo S E-Hybrid combines a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with an electric motor for a combined 677 hp and is said to be capable of 192 mph and accelerating 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Both hybrids 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. 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 Porsche Panamera has a high level of performance and precise suspension control.