Review of the 2012 Porsche Panamera

Introduction

• Price: Under $30,000 (affordable compared to original price)
• Condition: Not high mileage or damaged
• Purpose of Review: Assess if the Panamera is worth buying
• Source: Car borrowed from CNC Motors, an exotic car dealership

History and Models

• First Release: 2010 model year
• Initial Models: S versions (400 hp V8) and a 500 hp Turbo V8
• Additional Model (2011): 300 hp V6 (like the reviewed car)
• Market: V6 models are the cheapest on the used market

Performance and Luxury

• 0-60 mph: 5.6 seconds
• Modern Design: Despite the age, the car still looks modern
• Driving Experience: Comparable to other Porsche models
• Luxury Features: Surprising amount for the price

Interior Quirks and Features

1. General Interior:
   • Modern look, leather, wood, aluminum finishes
   • Base model with some unique elements
   • Criticism: Cheap plastic center of the steering wheel
2. Cupholders:
   • One centrally located
   • Additional two on the passenger side
3. Speed Limit Sticker: 150 mph limit due to tire capabilities
4. Door Sill Armrest: Extended onto the B pillar for more comfort
5. Center Console: Many buttons, blank switches if options not selected
6. Shift Lever: PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission
7. Center Screen: Responsive despite being outdated

Rear Seats

• Comfort: Ample legroom and headroom, designed for tall passengers
• Bucket Seats: Only two individual seats, not a bench
• Storage and Entertainment:
  • Wood trim and storage compartment
  • Rare Porsche rear seat entertainment system
  • Porsche-branded wireless headphones

Trunk and Practicality

• Hatchback Design: Large cargo area; seats fold down for more space
• Resemblance to Station Wagon: Practical as a sedan-station wagon hybrid
• Spoiler: Adjustable for aesthetic and functionality

Engine and Mechanics

• V6 Engine: Noticeable empty space under the hood
• Model Code: Designation 970

Design and Styling

• EARLY Models: Criticized for roofline and overall look
• MODERN Models: Slight improvements but similar design

Driving Experience

• Acceleration: Sufficient for everyday driving; enhanced by PDK transmission
• Handling: Comparable to Porsche standards, agile around corners
• Size: Large car, challenging in tight spaces
• Luxury Level: Comfortable but not on par with top luxury brands like S-Class or 7-Series

Doug Score

1. Weekend Categories (26 out of 50):
   • Styling: 4
   • Acceleration: 5
   • Handling: 6
   • Fun Factor: 5
   • Cool Factor: 6
2. Daily Categories (34 out of 50):
   • Features: 6
   • Comfort: 7
   • Quality: 8
   • Practicality: 5
   • Value: 8
3. Total Score: 60/100, a good score for its class and era

Conclusion

• Recommendation: Excellent used luxury car for the price, provided you can overlook the styling.