THE Panamericana SPIRIT

Not only does the Panamera blow the socks off most sports cars, but - with four seats and a massive boot it can also be a worthy road trip companion.

- WORDS DHRUV BEHL

Panamericana refers to a network of highways that connects the Americas. The Carrera Panamericana refers to a famous road-race across Mexico in the first half of the 50s to celebrate the completion of the North-South Mexican section of the highway.

Having had the opportunity to previously drive through Central America - from Mexico to Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama - I can attest to the suitability of the terrain to a cross-country road-race. Moreover, it was no surprise that these kinds of races favoured the nimble and inherently sporty cars from Zuffenhausen. As you may have already guessed, the name Carrera (which means Race in Spanish) comes from said road race! Similarly, no prizes for guessing where the name Panamera gets its roots from.

Now, my last road trip on an entirely different continent - to Wales in the UK - was in a Porsche Macan GTS and, unsurprisingly, it proved to be the perfect steed for the task - fast, versatile and spacious. Engaging when pushed, always comfortable - if not a bit firm - and with acres of boot space, not to mention enough grunt to rival a freight train.

So, choosing another SUV for a repeat road trip to the awe-inspiring Welsh countryside would be the obvious choice - if not the most imaginative one. An SUV would be the most sensible in this instance, since I also had to consider the needs of my three co-passengers. But what if you - the driver - want something with a lower centre of gravity to make the most of those rather enticing ribbons of tarmac that the Welsh mountains offer, while also cossetting your passengers in the lap of luxury? Well, the Porsche Panamera springs to mind. In this case, one in Aventurine Green Metallic, shod with 21-inch exclusive design wheels in grey - the perfect spec in my book!