Updated: February 27, 2022
WHY IS THIS INFORMATION IMPORTANT?
This page will tell you everything that you need to know about this SUV. Buying a vehicle is a huge accomplishment and a large financial outlay. We want you to have as much information as possible, so that you can make the best decision for you.
The Porsche Cayenne is a series of mid-size luxury crossover sport utility vehicles manufactured by the German automaker Porsche since 2002, with North American sales beginning in 2003. It is the first V8-engined vehicle built by Porsche since 1995, when the Porsche 928 was discontinued. It is also Porsche’s first off-road variant vehicle since its Super and Junior tractors of the 1950s, and the first Porsche with four doors. Since 2008, all engines have featured direct injection technology.
The second-generation Cayenne (Type 92A) was unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March following an online reveal. The Cayenne shares its platform, body frame, doors and electronics with the similar Volkswagen Touareg and Audi Q7. The second generation received a facelift in 2014 with minor external changes, and introduced a new plug-in E-Hybrid version, with its public launch at the Paris Motor Show.
— Source Wikipedia
- Official Page – Porsche Cayenne
- Price: Starts at $80,700 CAD
- Comparable to: Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes GLE
- Maintenance costs: Approximately $20,552 over 10 years.
OUR SCORE: 84
SCORES BY PUBLICATION:
TheCarConnection.com: 7.2 / 10
Kelley Blue Book: 3.7 / 5
Car and Driver: 9.5 / 10
USNews: None
Edmunds: 8.1 / 10
J.D. Power: 82 / 100
Motortrend: 8.6 / 10
What the critics have to say…
The 2021 Porsche Cayenne is an SUV by design but a sports car by nature, which earned it an Editors’ Choice award.
— Car and Driver
What was a controversial first SUV upon its introduction for 2003 is now a staple of the Porsche brand.
— Motortrend
HOW DOES IT DRIVE?
Large SUVs shouldn’t feel this quick, but when it’s a Porsche the unexpected happens.
Handling is superb. The vehicle sticks to the road and yet, has a comfortable ride even over broken pavement.
IS IT RELIABLE AND HIGH QUALITY?
The 2021 Cayenne has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Porsche Cayenne Warranty
Porsche covers the Cayenne with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.
HOW COMFORTABLE IS IT?
It’s hard to believe that a vehicle that handles like this can also be incredibly comfortable. The ride quality from the PASM/air suspension combo is firm but comfortable — a Porsche hallmark.
The standard seats stay comfortable over long distances for a range of body types. There is some external road noise and some noise from around the wind screen.
WHAT IS THE INTERIOR LIKE?
The Cayenne somehow feels like both a SUV and a sportscar. It’s easy to slide in and out of.
The cockpit controls feel great to the touch, but some are placed awkwardly and tightly in front of the gear selector, but these are redundant since most are found on the steering wheel.
WHAT IS THE TECHNOLOGY LIKE?
The redesigned infotainment is a big step forward for the Cayenne. It is intuitive and expansive, but the screen smudges easily. The base sound system is fine, but serious audiophiles will want the optional Bose or Burmester upgrade.
The Cayenne supports Apple Car Play, but does not support Android Auto. Alienating half of the population who owns a phone seems like a strange choice, especially when the Audi Q8 (built on the same platform) supports Android Auto. Both the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE also support Android Auto.
WHAT IS THE CARGO SPACE LIKE?
The Cayenne has less cargo space than most of its competitors and even less than some compact SUVs. Short story, if you need cargo room, look elsewhere.
IS THIS VEHICLE A GOOD VALUE?
Nearly every competitor offers more for less money. If you prioritize the Porsche look and driving then the value is there. If you want the normal SUV priorities then it isn’t. Even at this price, there are competitors — such as the Land Rover Range Rover Sport and the Maserati Levante — that just aren’t as well rounded.
Once you plunk down money at the dealership, it’ll be a while before you have to shell out for unforeseen costs. The Cayenne’s basic and powertrain warranties, along with roadside assistance, are good for four years/50,000 miles.
IS THE Porsche cayenne A GOOD SUV?
The Porsche Cayenne is a great luxury midsize SUV. It’s the best handling SUV in this segment. The inside is as high quality as anything you can find.
SHOULD I BUY THE porsche Cayenne?
If you want a sportscar with SUV properties then yes, you should buy a Cayenne. However, if you’re looking for a true SUV with the qualities that it embues then the Cayenne probably should be on your short list.
THE FINAL WORD
The Porsche Cayenne is a fantastic luxury midsize SUV. Included among this vehicle’s strengths are its premium interior, extensive features, array of energetic engines, and athletic handling. Unless you need more space for your stuff or want something a little easier on your wallet, the Cayenne is well worth considering.
REVIEWS AND IMPRESSIONS
We have put together as many reviews and impressions as we could find. Each finds a way to touch upon something that the others missed. If you are serious about this vehicle then these videos are worth watching.