Special to the Star

Testers in the Prestige (way over) $75,000 category were atwitter over the return of Porsche to Automotive Journalists Car of the Year testing for the first time since 2000.

Porsche Panamera Turbo

(656.9 points)

I don't think it's a surprise that the Porsche Panamera won the Prestige category.

Here's a vehicle with 911 behaviour, but with real back seats so the in-laws can come along and enjoy 0-to-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The sound of the twin-turbo V8 brings tears to the eyes, the seven-speed PDK transmission is as smooth or as eager as you want it to be, and the interior oozes luxury.

I rated the Panamera number 1. In overall category voting, it got the highest marks for the interior, driver position, engine refinement, transmission/drive train, braking, quality and value.

Price as tested: $172,354

BMW 7-series sedan

(638.9 points)

Foolish me, I thought the Audi R8 would finish second, but the BMW 7-series cruised to the runner-up position.

For a big car, it drives nimbly, has quick throttle response, lively steering, and a crisp, modern interior. Maybe its executive length makes it most at home on the highway, but it's no burden to drive in town either. I placed it third.

Price as tested: $127,700

Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid

(622.7 points)

It's roomy, and quiet, has an oily smooth ride, and the best fuel rating at a claimed 9.5 L/100 km (30 m.p.g.) in combined driving.

The S400 hybrid finished third, I had it fourth.

Lovely as it is, it's too much like being in an isolation chamber for me.

Price, as tested: $115,703

AUDI R8 5.2 FSI

(614 points)

Maybe the honeymoon is over with the Audi R8.

The majority of automotive journalists rated it fourth, though it seemed to be the first car anyone jumped into when they had some free time.

I rated it second.

The gutsy V10 sports car has marvelous seats, brakes, steering, sound, and a suspension that handles the track or Ontario roads.

Hard-nosed journalists knocked points off for big fuel consumption, stingy cargo space and ride comfort.

I say hand out the anti-inflammatories for those who like it soft, and appreciate the R8 for what it is.

Price as tested: $190,300

Toronto Star