HAUTE TOYS: 2012 Porsche Panamera S Hybrid

Porsche is on fire. Sit behind the wheel of the all new Panamera S Hybrid and take in all the futuristic amenities the multifunction cockpit has to offer. Literally, you become a pilot in a Lear Jet. Inputs, gauges, switches and displays are omnipresent. The central PCM (Porsche Communication Management) LCD, for example, displays five screens that showcase what your vehicle is up to.

[highlight_text] The 2012 Panamera can sail up to 103 MPH. [/highlight_text]

E-Power: Engage this button from the right side of the sci-fi center console to drive on electricity alone up to 53 MPH for a 1.24-mile range. The internal combustion engine is turned off and the clutch is decoupled.

Sailing or coasting: The 2012 Panamera can sail up to 103 MPH and is especially good for down hill runs, exiting off the highway and open road sailing.

Recuperation: The hybrid converts kinetic energy from braking into electrical energy to help recharge the battery by using the electric motor as a generator. The harder you brake, the more energy is regenerated.

Audi sourced, supercharged, 3-liter V6 compressor engine: Produces 333 horsepower and commingles with the 3-phase 47 horsepower (34 kW) electric motor for a total output of 380 horsepower. Together, they ride and feel like a conventional V8. The electric motor can drive the vehicle on its own, support the gas engine or can be used as a generator or a starter.

288-volt nickel metal hydride battery: Mounted in the rear below the luggage compartment to not compromise any typical Panamera hallmarks.