Pure driving pleasure

Many things in life are unpredictable such as women, the weather and the quality of a shawarma from a street vendor at 3am. However, one thing that is beautifully predictable is the drive you experience in a Porsche.

I took the new Panamera S for a spin around the island and instantly remembered why I’m such a fan of this marque. Forget about branding, reputation and even cost, these cars were made for driving pleasure and that becomes abundantly clear when you slip inside.

The interior looks more like a cockpit of a fighter jet than a car. The centre stack houses a plethora of buttons, switches and gizmos that make you wonder if you’re going to drive off or fly away.

As far as comfort goes, this is definitely one of the most impressive models I’ve had the pleasure of driving over the years. The interior is awash with high-quality leather that dominates the dashboard and seats, giving this car a sophisticated feel.

This model can comfortably hold four occupants and their luggage. The concept may be unorthodox for a saloon, but it’s typical of a Panamera. The rear seats can also fold down separately to create space for larger items of luggage.

An analogue clock that is nestled in the dashboard is a cool touch that provides a stark contrast with the hi-tech tone of the rest of the vehicle.

The thing I enjoyed most about this model is that it makes the transition from city to highway driving effortlessly and with conviction.

I felt just as cool, in control and comfortable weaving between the back streets of Hoora as I did on the highway. The drive is smooth and steady and surprisingly quiet considering that under the bonnet is a newly developed 3.0-litre V6 engine with twin turbochargers.

Engine power is transmitted by Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK for short). In the new model it is distributed to all four wheels via the all-wheel drive of Porsche Traction Management (PTM).

Bi-Xenon headlights, including daytime running lights with four integral LED spotlights, are fitted as standard on all models. The same applies to Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) – an electronic damping control system – and the Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM).

Although the engine is generally not that loud, things change with the push of a button, the sports button to be exact. It is fitted as standard and enables you to select a setup that favours either comfort or sporty performance. At the push of a button, the electronic engine management system switches the engine mapping to offer a sharper response and engine dynamics that are more direct ... and it roars!

The infotainment is also great in this model. The CDR audio system has a 7-inch colour touchscreen which enables you to navigate and select the most important functions and menus with ease and efficiency.

The integrated CD radio, with FM twin tuner and RDS diversity, 30 memory presets, dynamic autostore and speed-sensitive volume control, includes a sound system with 10 loudspeakers and a total audio output of 100 watts. An optional integrated CD autochanger holds up to six CDs.

When I returned the car to the showroom and handed over the keys, I let out a sigh because predictable brilliance is a precious thing.

The model I drove cost  BD47,800 and was worth all those fils …a reliably magnificent ride every time.

For details, call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17459911.