Overview & Reviews

Porsche raised the public's collective eyebrow when it decided to enter the sport-utility vehicle business in 2003 with the bulbous Cayenne. However, despite the grumblings of purists, this midsize luxury SUV has proven itself worthy of the vaunted Porsche name over the course of two generations.

With a lineup that stretches into six-digit territory when new and engines that range from a hybrid V6 to a twin-turbo V8, the Porsche Cayenne isn't your typical midsize SUV. Nor is it the most practical or family-friendly. Indeed, the Cayenne's relatively small cargo area, high load floor and lack of a third-row seat option limit its real-world functionality.

But in terms of spirited driving, there are few better. Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, razor-sharp steering and superb brakes, the Porsche Cayenne demonstrates surprising dexterity around corners. The current generation isn't quite as adept off-road as the original Cayenne, but it's also lighter and more nimble, a trade-off that most shoppers will likely appreciate. New or used, a Cayenne is one of the best luxury SUVs you can get.

Current Porsche Cayenne
The Porsche Cayenne is a five-seat midsize luxury SUV with numerous trims that correspond to engine choice. The base Cayenne features a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 300 horsepower, along with all-wheel drive and a novel six-speed manual transmission. An eight-speed automatic is optional with the V6 and standard on everything else. Stepping up to the Cayenne S gets you a 4.8-liter V8 that gets the party started with 400 horses. The Cayenne Turbo rocks a turbocharged 4.8-liter V8 rated at 500 hp, while the Turbo S ups the ante to 550 hp. Should you care more about efficiency than performance, the Cayenne S Hybrid produces 380 hp but beats the base V6's fuel economy, while the Diesel's torque-rich 240-hp V6 uses even less fuel and still delivers authoritative thrust.

Inside, the Cayenne employs an enveloping, cockpit-style layout reminiscent of the Porsche Panamera, with ample standard features and as many options as your bank account can handle. The center console, adorned with upwards of 50 buttons, rises rakishly to meet the dashboard and its large touchscreen display. As with other Porsches, the Cayenne's interior boasts sumptuous materials and excellent build quality. The sculpted rear seats not only recline but slide fore and aft as well. Maximum cargo capacity, however, is more in line with compact crossovers at just 62.9 cubic feet.

In reviews, we've been astonished by the current Porsche Cayenne's athleticism. It can be hustled along a curving road with gusto, yet the ride manages to stay supple, even with the optional active dampers in their most aggressive setting. And although this Cayenne isn't meant for serious off-road use, it can still hold its own in light-duty applications. If we were making a list of the most capable vehicles across all driving scenarios, the Cayenne would be right there at the top.

Used Porsche Cayenne Models
The current, second-generation Porsche Cayenne was introduced for 2011. It may look smaller than the SUV it replaced, but this is actually an optical illusion created by the new model's lower nose and raked roof pillars. In reality, this Cayenne is fractionally longer, wider and taller. Pleasingly, though, it's about 400 pounds lighter thanks to the deletion of the dual-range transfer case (meant to permit serious off-roading) and the use of lighter-weight body panels. Besides this trip to Jenny Craig, the second-generation Cayenne benefits from sharper driving reflexes, invigorated engines and a new interior with better materials and more luxury features.

The current Cayenne has received a few notable updates during its run. The 550-hp Turbo S model didn't arrive until 2014, but from 2012-'13 a Power Kit was offered for the regular Turbo that increased output to 540 hp. Also, the Diesel and GTS models weren't introduced until 2013, and a Platinum Edition package (including special silver exterior accents and added luxury features) was unveiled for base and Diesel models in 2014.

The first-generation Porsche Cayenne was produced from 2003-'10 and came equipped with a heavy-duty all-wheel-drive system that included low-range gearing. At heart, though, the original Cayenne was all about on-road performance, just like the current model. It was considered one of the best-handling SUVs of its time -- not to mention one of the fastest in S, GTS and Turbo guises.

Inside, the driver sat high above traffic in comfortable bucket seats, facing a three-spoke steering wheel and a center-mounted tachometer that paid homage to Porsche's sports cars. The ignition was even mounted on the left side of the dash in classic Porsche style. Materials quality was generally very good throughout the cabin, but the advanced electronics controls weren't especially user-friendly. The original Cayenne wasn't the most spacious midsize SUV either, lacking the cargo and rear seat space of some similarly priced competitors.

Originally, there were only Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo styles. The S model's 4.5-liter V8 produced 340 hp, while the turbocharged version of the same engine pumped out 450 horses. A six-speed automatic transmission was standard. A 247-hp 3.2-liter V6 base model arrived in 2004, and its standard transmission became a six-speed manual for 2005 (the rest of the Cayenne line stuck with the auto). That year also saw the addition of a few options, such as a panoramic sunroof and a Turbo Power Kit that boosted output to 500 hp and upgraded the brakes. For 2006, the range-topping Cayenne Turbo S debuted, producing a monstrous 520 hp that whisked the Cayenne to 60 mph as quickly as a 911 Carrera of the same era.

The Cayenne was not produced for model year 2007, but the following year brought major changes. The styling was given a welcome face-lift, the suspension was revised for sharper handling and every engine gained more power. The base V6 now produced 290 hp, the Cayenne S's V8 385 hp and the Turbo an even 500 hp. The Turbo S was put on hiatus. The Cayenne GTS model also arrived for '08, featuring a 405-hp version of the S model's V8 along with a six-speed manual transmission, 21-inch wheels, an active air suspension and a lower ride height. The Turbo S made its return for 2009 packing 550 hp.

User Reviews:

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  Owner - 2005 Porsche Cayenne
  By Felix Friedberg - November 4 - 11:26 pm

  Fun to Drive, respect of friends and neighbors. Good performance, good gas milage, excellent interior, air conditioning.

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  Porsche fun with family - 2005 Porsche Cayenne
  By The family Porsche - October 30 - 11:26 pm

  This car fills the niche of a Porsche that has the performance and feel of a sports car that the whole family can enjoy. People give me a puzzled look at the car because they do not know what it is. It has a solid feel with an incredible Porsche handling. Just returned from a 3,000 mile trip. The car was very comfortable, quiet, even with all the horses purring. At the end of long day of driving, I was not fatiqued due to the comfortable seats with lumbar support and the excellent sound system. Heavy snow is no match for this car even without using the low range. This car is definately a winner.

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  Great Surprise - 2016 Porsche Cayenne
  By Richard Seban - October 27 - 8:16 am

  The is our second Cayenne and we love it. The diesel has over 700 miles in range and with the air flow seats it is so comfortable only bathroom breaks are necessary. We just took a road trip (5000 miles) and the car performed perfectly. Cant say enough good things about it. Worth every penny!

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  ZOOOOOOOOOOOM - 2004 Porsche Cayenne
  By hubbard - October 23 - 10:00 am

  The car is great to own, however I have had a few problems with my nav system. Other than that it is a beast, but be prepared not pass up many gas stations. I wouldnt waste my time or money on the V6. If you can afford the turbo, you wont be sorry, however my S runs with the best of them.

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  04 TURBO owner here! - 2004 Porsche Cayenne
  By liquidsilk - October 22 - 3:06 am

  Great car, super fast, great performance... I wish I was back home in Europe and use it to the limit instead of crusiing 60mph in Cali highways... I like the exterior design more than the latest ones (2012-2013). So musculan! Inside looks bigger to me, again compare to newer ones. Gas consumption might be a problem for some. I am not a commuter and I work 7days. Since I dont have time to drive that much I enjoy when I drive.If you can effort get a new one. Gas mileage is much better.

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  One Zesty Pepper - 2005 Porsche Cayenne
  By CrimsonPepper - October 18 - 3:06 pm

  This is my first Porsche but not my first SUV. Have had the Yukon, Acura MDX, Lexus LX 470, Cadillac Escalade and desired something sporty with SUV traits. I test drove an S but wanted the extra punch of the Turbo. The dealership worked hard to meet my price demands and satisfaction. This truck is very controllable at all speeds (even at 120). Its engine begs to cowl for you and to be driven fast. I would not advise the Turbo for my wife or a soccer Mom...stick with the S or V6. Mine has burned about a quart of oil since purchase which is consistent to what dealership advised based on how often you lay into the turbo boost. My kids love being dropped off at school in it because most dont know what it is. Much fun!

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  love my gts red gts! - 2008 Porsche Cayenne
  By hellfire - October 14 - 2:13 am

  Went from 911(997)cab + Range Rover Supercharged to the GTS. Although interior appointments not as luxurious as the RR, it feels as expensive. Alcantara is lovely! Fat steering wheel the best Ive held. Took it on rough roads for a hike and with comfort suspension mode + raised height, felt just slightly more bumpy than the RR, though definitely need to be careful with the 21 inch rims. dealer added tooki bluetooth and ipod integration so gadget wise, slightly better than the RR. skipped the rear view camera - view is straight down so not as much visibility as RRSC, but parking assist is just about as good. in all, its made me forget my RRSC, but i still miss the 911 a bit.

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  The Ultimate Baby Transportation - 2003 Porsche Cayenne
  By C. Reinoso - October 2 - 2:00 am

  It was time to buy a new house & start a family my wife said. Poof, my 911 cab was gone! Fast forward 14 months later. The new home was purchased,the baby is here & a Cayenne is sitting in my garage. Unbelievable is what I have to say! Even the baby appreciates the Cayenne. I just strap her into the baby seat & the throaty growl from the engine puts the baby to sleep right away. On weekends, the transmission stays in automatic when the baby is on board. On weekdays on my way to work & back, its a whole different story! I never thought Id look forward to commuting each day. Thank You Porsche!!

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  Bill Phelps - 2004 Porsche Cayenne
  By Bill Phelps - September 27 - 2:00 am

  Awesome to drive!Best car I ever drove and I own a Mercedes S600 and Navigator. Worth every penny!

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  WHEEL ALIGNMENT - 2004 Porsche Cayenne
  By NICHOLAS CESARELLO - September 22 - 10:00 am

  THIS AWD (CAYENNE S) IS QUICK IN MANUAL. EATS TIRES, THE DEALER CANT OR DOES NOT HAVE THE KNOW HOW ON HOW TO ALIGN A 4 WHEEL DRIVE SUV. I HAVE A SHIMMY AT 68 MPH SINCE 10,000 MILES. THE DEALER HAS TRIED TO BALANCE THE TIRES (ORIGINAL ONES AND NOW NEW )AND ALIGN WITHOUT SUCCESS. THE CAYENNE S RIDES VERY HARD