STYLING | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Even the most devoted Panamera spotter will struggle to discern the V6 from its grander siblings.
Edmunds' Inside Line
Regardless of what descriptor you use, most of us seem to agree that it looks like the unlikely five-door offspring of an illicit tryst between a Porsche 928 and a Chrysler Crossfire.
Autoblog
We'd willingly trade room for top hats and designer luggage for a form that sincerely flatters the Panamera's far-reaching function.
Automobile Magazine
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Motor Trend
The Porsche Panamera is unique in Porsche's history, and in its current lineup. Unfortunately, that uniqueness extends to a design that many consider awkward, and for good reason. The rear fender proportions are imbalanced, particularly when taken against the low nose, while the humped rear window and roofline complete the funky look.
Despite the generally awkward exterior, there are a few angles which bring out the better aspects of the Panamera's aerodynamic lines, and the interior is top-flight.
Warm yet still technical, with a decidedly sporty look thanks to the wrap-around instrument panel, canted center console, and vertical vents. Materials are likewise fantastic, with wood, leather, and even the rather abundant plastic all feeling like very good examples of their kind.
Tying the Panamera to other Porsches, particularly the 911, the ignition sits to the left of the steering wheel. As for appearance differences between trim lines, there's very little, though the Turbo S model is slightly more aggressive in small details, and the S Hybrid gets its unique badges.
Conclusion
The 2012 Porsche Panamera's controversial exterior is offset by its conservative, yet stylish interior.