Well stated. However, if a sedan is needed the Panamera has soul. Yeah, it costs more than a M3 but it's a better driver. Those who doubt it, just take a good test drive. I did not start liking the Panamera, but it has grown on me once I drove it and saw what it offered to a driver.

 

My daily is an e90 M3 and the main issue is the rear seat space. I would not want to put adults back there for a long trip (example San Diego to Napa next month). I took some friends up to Cars and Coffee (60 minutes each way) last month and they were not happy by the time we got back. This was despite the fact that we moved both front seats significantly forward.

I have not driven the Panamera yet because I am afraid I will buy it on the spot, but my wife keeps nagging me too since she loves the look.

 

levinson today is not the same as the old stuff.
i wouldn't call ML high end.

 

That's what I used to say about my wife, and sure enough it did!

I got a Panamera loaner today. Interesting so far ... not the power I would like but not so underpowered as the original Cayennes (non-S or turbo); initially liking the package for what it is (but no way I would switch from my TT!).

 

A sedan is needed, partially because I like to have good space in the rear for a car seat, and I like being able to mount it in the middle in case of a t-bone. The Panamera has 2 rear buckets so this is not possible, and therefore also only seats 4 total.

 

Frankly the Panny does sit low (why it handles!) so bending over to get your child in and out can be a hassle.
My friend recently went thru the same excerise and ultimately he bought a E63 over an M5 and Panny

 

+1 you MUST test drive it.

Make certain you punch it from a stop in the Panamera S and 4S. If what you experience is what you think you should get for a $90k + sporty sedan, especially compared to the competition, then good for you.

 

The Panamera is an executive express, not a family car. The ultimate kid mover is a minivan - like it or not.

 

Hey, take it to the audio forum ... The Burmester system is fantastic, tho...

I've driven all the Panny forms but the Turbo. And I had a V6 for a couple of days. Have to say, the car really drives well. Large but it seems to shrink around you as you amp up the pace (pun intended). The V6 was very good; without large open stretches of hwy where one could open it up and stay opened (not here in NJ), it is not lacking at all. Got compliments wherever we went. Even called 'sir' at my usual gas station - the one that knows my 911 with the harnesses, track tires, numbers, etc. - first time thats happened (and I'm not sure I liked it ). To my eye it looks best in dark colors and its best angle is the rear quarter to front end view (from 5:30 or 7:30 on the clock face).