The Porsche Cayenne S: A pinnacle of SUV performance and luxury

By Miles Downard

Introduced to the automotive landscape in 2003, the Porsche Cayenne emerged as a crucial player in reshaping the fortunes of the iconic sports car manufacturer. Positioned as the third offering in Porsche’s lineup, alongside the Boxster and the 911, the Cayenne was instrumental in rescuing the brand from a challenging period marked by sluggish sales and a need for rejuvenation.

At its debut, the SUV segment was a relatively unexplored territory, characterized by a limited selection of rugged vehicles such as the Defender, Land Cruiser, and Jeep.. The concept of a high-performance, luxurious SUV was a departure for Porsche, a bold move that ultimately paid off, opening doors to previously untapped markets. The Cayenne’s unconventional blend of speed and off-road capability challenged the prevailing norms and became a linchpin for Porsche’s success.

The original Cayenne Turbo, a testament to Porsche’s commitment to performance, remains a sought-after collector’s item, standing out for its enduring speed and reliability. Over the years, Porsche has produced over a million Cayennes, significantly expanding the brand’s reach to enthusiasts who sought the Porsche experience without the constraints of a traditional 911.

Initial reactions to the Cayenne’s design were met with skepticism, as it bore similarities to the 911 but with heightened dimensions and a distinctive rear-end design. However, Porsche’s perseverance and continuous refinement over subsequent generations have solidified the Cayenne’s identity. The latest iteration, featuring the Coupe variant, maintains the Cayenne’s distinctive appearance, underscoring its evolution into a recognizable and enduring model.

In an elegant white hue, the Cayenne defies its actual size, creating an optical illusion of compactness. However, parking reveals its true dimensions, with the wide stance measuring 1983 mm without mirrors and 2194 mm with mirrors. Once inside, the Cayenne offers a cavernous interior, highlighted by a spacious boot that can easily accommodate substantial cargo or, humorously, a baby elephant.

Passenger comfort is paramount, with generous legroom and head height in the rear. The inclusion of a non-opening tinted panoramic glass roof enhances the sense of spaciousness, contributing to an overall luxurious atmosphere within the cabin.

Described as a facelift, the latest Cayenne iteration represents one of the most comprehensive model revisions in Porsche’s storied history. The extent of changes applied to the Cayenne is remarkable, touching nearly every aspect of the vehicle, excluding only some body panels and possibly the fuel tank.

Technological advancements take center stage in the Cayenne’s interior, with an array of digital displays seamlessly integrated. A welcome departure from excessive digitization is the retention of a classic manual rearview mirror. The drive selection process adopts a modern touch, featuring a console-mounted push-button for Park and a toggle system for reverse, neutral, and drive modes.

Beneath the Cayenne’s sculpted hood lies a powerhouse—a 4.0L turbocharged V8 engine delivering an impressive 349 kW with 600 Nm of torque. This robust engine catapults the 2.2-ton Cayenne to the 100 km/h mark in approximately 5 seconds, showcasing a level of speed that defies conventional SUV expectations. Yet, it’s not just about reaching top speed; the Cayenne’s prowess lies in its ability to handle the journey and navigate diverse terrains.

A careful engineering balance allows the Cayenne to function as a sports car with a higher center of gravity and additional weight compared to the 911. This engineering feat becomes evident when the Cayenne is put to the test, demonstrating a unique blend of sports car agility and off-road capabilities. The original Cayenne Turbo, despite the passage of time, remains fast and desirable, a testament to Porsche’s commitment to build quality.

Upon experiencing the Cayenne’s performance on the road, its sheer size seems to diminish, creating an intimate connection between driver and machine. The precision of navigation is exceptional, and the Cayenne handles itself beyond expectations. The fully adjustable air suspension, coupled with substantial tires and precise chassis setup, instills confidence in cornering, making it an unmistakable Porsche in every sense.

The engineering prowess is further accentuated in the Cayenne’s Sports Plus mode, a setting that transforms the vehicle into a performance-oriented beast. The suspension hunkers down, responses tighten, and the ride becomes more assertive, with the exhaust system opening up to provide an audible reminder of the power beneath the hood. Impressively, there’s no turbo lag, and the engine’s responsiveness is seamless, delivering power consistently.

The Cayenne is equipped with an automatic Tiptronic S transmission, which has undergone significant improvements. The transmission intelligently anticipates the driver’s intentions, avoiding unnecessary shifts and maintaining the vehicle in the optimal gear. In Sport Plus mode, the transmission exhibits a heightened level of aggressiveness, challenging the driver to push the boundaries.

While the inclusion of flappy paddles allows for manual control, the Cayenne’s transmission proficiency is such that it often outpaces the driver’s manual inputs. The system’s seamless integration with the vehicle’s dynamics showcases a level of artificial intelligence that enhances the overall driving experience.

As for optional features, a head-up display and ventilated seats might be worthy additions, considering the already comprehensive standard features such as wireless charging, electric controls, and an intuitive infotainment system. However, the Cayenne’s rearview camera in reverse mode leaves room for improvement, lacking 3D views and a higher resolution.

Safety-conscious buyers might opt for additional features such as lane departure assist, rear traffic collision alert, and adaptive cruise control. Porsche assumes a driver-centric approach, allowing customization of the Cayenne experience to suit individual preferences. While some may find adaptive cruise control a valuable addition, the Cayenne’s overall package is compelling even without extensive add-ons.

The Cayenne’s Bose sound system deserves special recognition, delivering an unexpectedly powerful audio experience as a standard feature. Its impressive capability to fill the cabin with immersive sound adds a layer of enjoyment to the driving experience. Prospective buyers are encouraged to explore this feature, as it stands out as a delightful surprise in the Cayenne’s offerings.

What an utterly fabulous and wonderful machine. Despite its premium price point, the Cayenne offers exceptional value for money, evident in its widespread popularity and sustained sales success. The Cayenne’s ability to seamlessly integrate sports car dynamics with SUV practicality positions it as a leader in its class, embodying the essence of the Porsche brand.