A Panamera Run to Kansai International Airport

Yesterday, my husband was due back from a business trip to the United States, so after picking up our child from kindergarten, I drove the Panamera to Kansai International Airport to meet him. My husband took the wheel for the drive home, and as soon as we pulled out of the airport parking lot, he said:

“Porsche really is something else. The way it feels planted on the road is different. Seriously, it’s incredible.”

He repeated that line over and over, like a broken record.

While in the U.S., my husband had been getting around in a rental Mercedes-Benz GLS. The GLS is a great vehicle, of course, but he said the Porsche came out ahead in road feel, driving enjoyment, and ride comfort in both the front and rear seats. (Since the GLS is an SUV, the Cayenne would really be the more natural comparison.)

What I’ve Learned Since Taking Delivery of the Panamera Turbo: Part 1

It’s been almost two months since we took delivery of the Panamera on October 12. Only two months? It feels as if it’s been part of our family for more than half a year already. Looking back on these first two months, two things stand out.

First, “it amazes me every time I drive it.” No matter how often I get behind the wheel, I’m impressed all over again. The way it rides, the smoothness, the sound of the engine, the acceleration—I already know what to expect, and yet every drive still feels special. I just don’t get tired of it.

The more I drive it, the more I want to drive it.

Usually, I’d think of an indulgence like fine steak this way: “A small portion is enough, and I only need it once in a while”—(I imagine eating it every day would get a bit rich.Though I wouldn’t know; I’ve never actually eaten steak that fancy.) But the Panamera Turbo never feels like too much. It really is remarkable.

What I’ve Learned Since Taking Delivery of the Panamera Turbo: Part 2

The second thing is that “there’s hardly any opportunity to unleash the Panamera Turbo.” In everyday life, you could almost say there are none. I didn’t realize it would be quite this extreme.

On the highway, just a light press on the accelerator is enough for the Panamera Turbo to reach around 1○0 km/h with ease. So even when overtaking a slower car from the left-hand lane, it takes hardly any effort.

And on the Hanshin Expressway, which I use regularly, there are so many unmarked police cars and speed cameras (one car had been pulled over just today) that I don’t drive over 100 km/h. I often find myself thinking, “If this is where I’m driving, I don’t really need a Panamera, do I?” Of course, you shouldn’t drive that fast on an ordinary highway either.

The Panamera is fun on winding roads and through the mountains, too. Unfortunately, though, I don’t yet have the driving skills to fully unleash the Panamera Turbo… (laughs)

I imagine the roads around Mount Ibuki and Ise would be great for a spirited drive. The Hakone Turnpike and the roads around Mount Fuji were a real pleasure, with their long straights and flowing curves. But they’re a long way from home.

And I don’t get many chances to take it to the track, either. There are events at Suzuka Circuit and Porsche Driving School sessions at Fuji Speedway, but I’d be lucky to make it to one a year.

I knew before buying it that there wouldn’t be many opportunities to use the Panamera Turbo’s full potential in everyday driving. Still, I hadn’t realized just how much power this car has.

It feels like a waste to own it and not get out for more drives, so I should make more of an effort. Kanto and Kyushu seem to have plenty of great roads, but I’m sure there are still lots to discover here in Kansai, too. Maybe it’s time to do some research and head out for a drive.