Porsche Panamera

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. For 2021, new turbocharged V6 and V8 engines provide plenty of motivation. Three hybrid powertrains with varying degrees of power are offered. An optional air suspension and active safety features are also available. The Panamera delivers performance and agility along with enough room for four adults to ride comfortably. All versions except for the base car come with all-wheel drive. The interior features a large touch screen that's used to interact with the audio, phone, and navigation functions. The electronic gear selector is confusing to use, and the piano-black buttons that surround it create a visual and sensory overload.

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.