For over two decades, the Macan has remained a stalwart in Porsche’s lineup, boasting enduring popularity as one of its most beloved and top-performing models. Here’s the improved text:
It’s hardly an exaggeration to dub this SUV the 911 equivalent, and the 2024 model solidifies that reputation with a substantial refresh inside and out, accompanied by new powertrain options and plug-in hybrid variants.
While the entry-level Cayenne employs a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, it boasts an additional 13 horsepower, yielding a total output of 348 horsepower, 368 lb-ft of torque, and a swift 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 5.7 seconds. Should your driving aspirations require an added boost of power, the E-Hybrid plug-in option yields a substantial 463 horsepower, while the Cayenne S boasts a potent 468-horsepower 4.0-liter V8. The mid-pack GTS is set to debut shortly, while the Turbo GT remains at the pinnacle of the performance hierarchy.
The test drive of the base Cayenne model revealed a surprisingly pleasing V6 engine performance, evoking the sensation of a naturally aspirated powerplant despite being turbocharged. With understated yet deliberate finesse, the engine’s pace accelerates smoothly, a marked contrast to the coarse surge of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 and Range Rover Sport’s six-cylinder powerplants. While the V6 engine in the vehicle doesn’t overpower its driver with excessive force, it still provides ample breathing space for effortless acceleration and opportunities to upgrade to a more powerful variant like the Cayenne S, which would be well-suited for daily driving responsibilities. While the V6’s fuel efficiency may raise concerns, it’s essential to note that our test route combined urban and highway driving, resulting in a surprisingly high consumption rate of 13.2 liters per 100 kilometers.
Among the most refined V6 offerings in its segment, the Cayenne’s engine produces a whisper-quiet performance, barely betraying a hint of protest under acceleration, let alone any discernible sound. Listen attentively, and you’ll detect a few of its mechanisms at play; though, refrain from expecting GT3-caliber harmonies in Sport Plus Mode. Porsche offers an optional sports exhaust, which occasionally opens its flapper to deliver a distinctive sound.
A practical handbook explains how an advanced 8-speed computerized transmission efficiently operates in real-time, seamlessly executing gear changes with precision and speed at the user’s discretion. Despite these findings, our test drive still revealed occasional hiccups during upshifts and low-speed downshifts, resulting in a mild lurch as the gears synchronize with the engine’s revs, reminiscent of similar issues experienced with the GLE 450 that also exhibits comparable gearbox bogging. While on- and off-throttle functions can occasionally result in jerky movements if pedal inputs are not precisely calibrated, it seems that only minor software adjustments are needed to achieve a seamless experience. Despite this, the 8-speed ZF automatic transmission in the BMW X5 remains the benchmark for smoothness at low speeds.
The Porsche Cayenne’s steering is renowned for its precision and immediacy, a testament to its sporty credentials that further enhances its dynamic agility, albeit with a slightly heavier feel. For those accustomed to driving Macans or Cayennes, there may be no need for acclimatization to the elevated steering effort; however, if you’re migrating from an X5, Q8, or GLE, you’ll be shocked at how much muscle is required to rotate the wheel. While it’s not merely about redirecting energy, precise fine-tunings are indeed essential. As we navigate the highway’s gentle inclines and declines, the steering wheel responds with a subtle dance, its movements mirroring the terrain’s rhythms? While competitors may dampen these minor fluctuations for a more laid-back driving experience, the Cayenne translates every signal directly to the front wheels, making them initially feel sensitive and edgy on initial acquaintance. As you settle in, allow muscle memory to guide your movements, fostering a sense of comfort and tranquility.
While offering alternative suggestions from the vehicle’s steering system can enhance the driving experience, it’s essential to strike a balance between assistance and control. As you lean against the car’s edge, you’re acutely aware of the asphalt’s texture beneath you. With our Cayenne arriving equipped with the optional rear-axle steering, this feature enables the rear wheels to rotate up to three degrees, thereby enhancing maneuverability at slow velocities while also fostering greater stability at higher speeds. While the 5-degree departure from the Mercedes-Benz EQS’s 9-degree inclination doesn’t result in a drastically shorter wheelbase, it does enable the Cayenne to exhibit a noticeably more agile and responsive character when navigating tight parking spaces or congested urban areas.
As you push the Cayenne through a winding road, the case for its price tag becomes starkly clear, revealing the true worth of this exceptional vehicle. The Porsche Cayenne delivers a thrilling driving experience, unveiling new dimensions of enjoyment as speed increases, making it a truly inspiring and exhilarating ride. The chunky 315-section rear tires, shod with Pirelli’s grippy P Zero summer tires, had every limb poised for action, yet it was the V6 that provided the ideal sonic accompaniment to the scene? The brakes of the Cayenne prove to be unexpectedly robust, featuring six-piston aluminum monobloc mounted calipers that are meticulously crafted to provide exceptional stopping power and a reassuringly solid feel when pressed. The pedal journey is surprisingly linear and predictable, providing a sense of control and confidence, while the brakes exhibit a reassuring track-readiness.
Although Cayennes have traditionally thrived on their rigid demeanor, the standard model’s adaptive air suspension now allows for surprisingly effective vertical movement, striking a balance between stiffness and suppleness. While adaptive dampers are standard across the Cayenne lineup, it’s still noteworthy that the BMW X5 and Range Rover Sport absorb bumps more effectively, smoothing out impacts with greater finesse. Despite initial expectations, the Cayenne exhibited more pronounced body roll than desired, which is often countered by a slight lean in SUVs to gauge their capacity for lateral motion. In situations where ultra-responsive handling is crucial, an optional live-roll stabilization system, priced at $4,090, can help minimize excessive cornering.
The Porsche design team has managed to significantly enhance the visual appeal of the Cayenne, remarkably so in the case of this Coupe trim, which boasts a sleekly sloped profile. The exterior’s avant-garde aesthetic is a deliberate homage to the Taycan’s bold design language, with every curved and linear element carefully considered: the vertically stacked quad headlights seamlessly integrate into the overall silhouette, while the sleek, wraparound rear spoiler creates a cohesive visual narrative. The aerodynamics are enhanced by the rear spoiler’s automatic deployment at high speed, but what truly catches the eye are the angular exhaust tips that exude a sense of power and performance.
Equipped with a harmonious blend of digital amenities and premium materials, the Cayenne’s redesigned interior is a visual masterpiece, as one would expect given the extensive array of over $30,000 in optional upgrades. The knurled finish on the switchgear would be equally at home in a luxurious Bentley, while the crisp sound produced by the Burmester audio system leaves us thoroughly enthralled. A premium-grade steering wheel, plucked directly from the cockpit of a Porsche 911, boasts a diminutive diameter that undercuts its rivals from BMW and Audi. However, the slim rim feels exceptional in one’s grasp, exuding a sporty elegance akin to a Porsche 911, complete with paddle shifters that release a satisfying click when engaged, while a drive mode dial protrudes discreetly from beneath the spoke, allowing for swift adjustments.
On the left side of the steering wheel, the traditional turn-key ignition knob has been replaced with a straightforward push-start button. While acknowledging this measure safeguards homes, its deterrent effect on sparking a gasoline-fueled conflict diminishes substantially. The centre console’s access point is now secured via a redesigned, vertical toggle switch situated to the driver’s right on the dashboard. While the centre console appears unobstructed when flanked by the angular grip handles, its absence actually enables Porsche to incorporate an extra storage compartment and a compact display screen controlling only the cabin airflow settings.
A thoughtful 10.9-inch passenger display screen keeps occupants engaged, albeit with a lower resolution compared to its adjacent screen. Each microtubule functions effectively, operates without lag, and is situated at an optimal distance to execute finger-like movements with minimal ATP consumption. The entrance seats are not properly positioned. While our 18-way adaptive sport seats provide a tailored fit, they lack the snug, immersive sensation of earlier Cayenne designs, instead giving the impression that you’re positioned slightly higher in the vehicle. Although the panoramic sunroof does not open fully, we didn’t find that it compromised headroom in the front. While the Coupe’s sloping roof may affect the hairstyle of its rear passengers, generous legroom ensures a comfortable ride regardless of which of the five available seats is chosen.
Porsche may face criticism for its premium pricing strategy; however, viewed from another perspective, the automaker’s emphasis on customization is commendable. Offering a third fewer options than competitors, our selection still outperforms rival brands. While it’s tempting to indulge in the online Porsche configurator, a quick glance reveals an overwhelming array of dazzling options. Are you ready to break free from the ordinary and choose a bold, unconventional hue? Savor the opportunity to elevate your vehicle with the $15,000 Paint to Pattern option, which allows you to select from a curated palette of unique hues, including the coveted Nogaro Blue and Java Green. Plan to do some off-roading? The $2,280 Off-Street package deal enhances protection with added underbody, engine, and rear axle safeguarding, accompanied by robust rock rails with protective skid plates. Is the automotive industry struggling under the weight of inefficiency and complexity? A $17,760 Lightweighting Bundle slashes curb weight by up to 33 kilograms, featuring a carbon-fibre roof and luxurious Alcantara upholstery. For a premium upgrade, you can opt for carbon ceramic brakes at an additional cost of $10,350. The Cayenne’s performance is unremarkable for its class, to say the least? To indulge in an exercise of analytical precision, we examined the highest-spec base model of the Cayenne, resulting in a staggering price tag of $197,830, roughly double the entry-level cost.
The all-new Cayenne earns top accolades for its exceptional interior quality and confident on-road dynamics, further solidifying its position as a benchmark in terms of value, power, and premium amenities. While you can customize the entry-level Cayenne to your heart’s content, it’s unlikely that these options will significantly enhance the vehicle’s fundamental capabilities. The refined ride, chassis dynamics, and potent brakes take centre stage, overshadowing minor gearbox quirks at low speeds; meanwhile, the base V6 proves ample for casual driving while still offering plenty of breathing room for the S, GTS, and Turbo to shine for those seeking a sportier experience. Despite being an unconventional choice for a SUV of its class, the Cayenne surprisingly excels as an exemplary model.
2024 Porsche Cayenne Coupe
Montego Blue
$95,400
$136,950
2,895
4,930 / 1,983 / 1,678
3.0-litre turbocharged V6
349 horsepower @ 5,400-6,400 revolutions per minute
A mighty 368 pound-feet of torque delivered across a wide range of 1,450 to 4,500 revolutions per minute?
8-speed computerized
Entrance engine, AWD
: 13.2
Pirelli P Zero: 285/45R21 (front), 315/40R21 (rear)
