2018 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo: Stylish and Practical

So you want a practical vehicle, but you're not a fan of SUVs. You like luxury sedans, but only if they're sporty and eye-catching. If that’s the case, take a minute to consider the Porsche Panamera. Launched in 2009, it’s the first four-door car sold by the famous Stuttgart-based automaker.

If there's one thing Porsche is really good at, it's creating different versions of its vehicles. This strategy has helped the automaker maintain consumer interest between model generations. The Panamera was treated to a complete overhaul last year, and this year Porsche launched two new versions. One of them, the Panamera Sport Turismo, was unveiled for the very first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

• Also: 2018 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo: the Wagon Variant
• Also: 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Ambience

A more family-friendly Panamera?

The Sport Turismo marks a turning point in the Panamera line, as for the first time, we’ll get to drive a car whose differences from the standard-issue model go beyond its drivetrain. It has a distinctive body, as immediately evident by its rear section, which is much more similar to that of a wagon than a classic sedan. It remains the same up front (it still looks somewhat like a 911), and the changes only become truly noticeable after the B pillar (between the two doors).

The Panamera Sport Turismo was designed to meet the demands of buyers who want all the best features of a Panamera, but in a more utilitarian format. Believe it or not, there are still people out there who want the benefits of a wagon without resorting to buying an SUV.

To make the vehicle more practical, a rear bench was added to accommodate an additional third passenger. The two individual seats are still there, but the centre console that separated them was removed and replaced by an additional seat.

Sitting in the back, it becomes quickly apparent that this new addition isn't the car's greatest feature: the middle seat is straight and flat, and its backrest is merely the armrest in raised position. The seat is very narrow, meaning you find yourself wedged uncomfortably between the two other passengers. It's easy to understand why Porsche calls this design “4+1.” In any case, you can always choose your Sport Turismo with a classic four-seat configuration.

More cargo space

The car's other new feature is its redesigned trunk. A larger hatch makes it easier to transport larger objects. The loading height is lower and the car offers slightly more cargo space: 20 litres more than the sedan, and 50 litres more when the rear seats are lowered.

The final draw of the Sport Turismo is its style. Thankfully, many elements have been retained from the concept car of the same name, which was presented at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The only question is why the automaker waited so long to bring this model to market. Its captivating sport-wagon style is different from anything seen on Canadian roads, which is great if you're looking for exclusivity. For maximum effect, go for the optional, blacked-out 21-inch wheels.

The inside features the new-gen Panamera layout with a more streamlined instrumentation and console. The numerous controls located at opposite ends of the centre console have been rearranged and upgraded with touch-sensitive buttons. Nearly everything can be controlled from the 12.3-inch touchscreen. To top it off, the design features exemplary finish and meticulous attention to detail.

Four engines on offer

Much more than a spin-off, the 2018 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo is practically a category of its own as it now comes with four drivetrains. The most timid variant, starting at $109,700, has a 330-horsepower V6 engine and Porsche's eight-speed PDK gearbox, the only available transmission option.

This car holds its own against SUVs, as all-wheel drive is offered as standard, which is great news. The Sport Turismo 4S gets a 440-horsepower V6, and the Turbo crowns the lineup with 550 ponies. A plug-in hybrid is also available, and all indications suggest that the Sport Turismo will soon be offered with all the drivetrains of the “regular” Panamera.

On the highway, it's easy to forget you're driving such an extraordinary car. It has all the signature characteristics of a high-end sports car, including precise steering, decisive braking and performance that would generally make Porsche proud. Driving it at full speed on the track, however, you notice the impact of its size and weight, despite the addition of an active roof spoiler to enhance downforce at higher speeds.

Nevertheless, what it lacks in pure performance, it makes up for in practicality and comfort on the road. Cruising along while treating its occupants to luxurious comfort is the Panamera's real strength.

What does this all add up to? In a nutshell, it means that you’ll no longer have to leave your Porsche at home when taking your family on the road.

In short, the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo 2018 delivers the best of Porsche, 365 days a year.