Porsche Panamera

The redesigned Panamera features new turbo engines and a high-tech, touch-activated control layout that features a new electronic gear selector. Optional air suspension and advanced safety features are also included. This large, four-door luxury car hides beneath a coupe silhouette and retains its versatile hatchback configuration. The first-generation Panamera delivered performance and agility along with enough room for four adults to ride comfortably. In our tests we found the Panamera enjoyable to drive, with excellent handling and cornering grip. The ride was a bit on the firm side for a luxury car, though.

Porsche's four-door luxury car is a large, low-slung sedan with a coupe silhouette and a hatchback. Handling is agile, with excellent steering and a supple ride. Normally aspirated and turbocharged V8s are offered, along with a V6. All use a quick-shifting seven-speed automated manual that isn't as smooth at low speeds as a regular automatic. Our tested S model, with a 400-hp, 4.8-liter V8, returned strong performance and 20 mpg overall. Four adults fit in the snug but beautifully finished interior. Complicated and button-laden controls, tight access, and impaired visibility are demerits. A hybrid and a long-wheelbase Executive version arrived for 2014.