I WOULDN'T normally start a review banging on about car statistics, but when you try out a vehicle that can blast from 0 to 62mph in just five seconds and has a top speed of 175mph, it just couldn't be helped.

The car is the very sleek Porsche Panamera - a four door car that somehow blends a sporty performance and physique with all the creature comforts of a luxury saloon. There is quality at every turn and comfort levels for all four occupants is exceptional.

As one would expect from a luxury performance car manufacturer, the Panamera is not cheap and will set you back just a couple of pounds shy of £88,000 - well, they do say quality costs.

When initially launched, the Panamera came in for some fairly unjust criticism from the industry regarding its looks.

It was described as being similar to the 911 but stretched to accommodate four doors and then the roof was raised to offer rear seat passengers more headroom.

But, for me, the Panamera is a beautifully crafted machine that really does turn heads as it passes and will stand out in any car park.

It boasts exceptionally smooth lines, double twin tailpipes, 19-inch alloys, a ready-for-action front end and muscular lines at the rear. Initially, the car looked black, but upon closer inspection it was actually amethyst - a deep violet shading that seemed to change slightly from each angle.

The seats - leather and heated - can be adjusted numerous ways to find the perfect driving position and all the controls are neatly situated in an elevated central console with a seven-inch colour touch screen to help you navigate the most common functions. There are five circular dashboard dials which are both striking and very user-friendly.

Further features include dual zone climate control, cruise control, an excellent audio system compatible with all the modern devices, and lots more besides.Rear seat passengers have their own individual seat which can also be adjusted and there is loads of leg, head and elbow space.

So the Panamera has looks, gadgetry and comfort, but what about the performance?

It's amazing. The Panamera just loves to be driven. It doesn't matter what the weather is doing or the road surface, this car simply wants to get out there and show off.

The power at your disposal is awesome thanks to the 4.8-litre V8 engine and the handling and road-holding is outstanding as it gently moves through the seven-speed automatic transmission. There is the option of changing gears manually via steering wheel paddles which can add a more robust, aggressive driving style.

But despite its power and performance, one factor remained constant - the Panamera felt very safe and controlled even at higher speeds.

As one would expect, Porsche has kitted out the Panamera with a host of safety features including top notch braking systems, numerous airbags, the Porsche Stability Management and plenty more.