Seven models are offered: Base, Diesel, S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S and S E-Hybrid. Base Cayennes feature a 3.6L V6 that puts out 300 hp. The Diesel uses a turbocharged 3.0L V6 that makes 240 hp. The S and the GTS use a 3.6L V6 twin turbo that churns out 420 hp in S form and 440 hp in the GTS. The Turbo version utilizes a 4.8L V8, also with two turbochargers, allowing it to produce 520 hp, while the Turbo S bumps the power up to 570 hp. Porsche claims 0-60 mph from the Turbo S in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 176 mph. Finally, the S E-Hybrid uses a gas-electric hybrid--Porsche's first--employing a 333-hp supercharged 3.0L V6 and a 47-hp battery-powered electric motor that combine to deliver 380 hp. The Cayenne Hybrid can run on either one or both of its powerplants for an even blend of power and fuel efficiency.
Interiors exhibit a typically Porsche attention to detail; they look, feel and fall in line with what one would see in the Panamera sedan. All rear seats are split-folding.
Cayennes are suspended by a double wishbone setup in the front and a multilink rear axle, with front and rear stabilizers. All Cayennes offer all-wheel drive via an 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic, which is standard on all trims. Towing capacity maxes out at 5,952 pounds for the base model and at 7,716 pounds for all other models.
The Cayenne comes with a lengthy standard equipment list. The Base and the Diesel models offer power everything, heated mirrors, leather seating, 12-way electrically adjustable front seats with 4-way lumbar support, steering wheel audio controls, rain-sensing wipers, privacy glass, a premium stereo system, a power liftgate, universal garage door opener and auxiliary power outlets.
S and S E-Hybrid models are equipped mostly the same, adding cruise control and a refrigerated glovebox. Turbo models include niceties such as aluminum interior trim and an Alcantara headliner, as well as Porsche Communications Management 3.0, which features a 6.5-inch color touchscreen display with integrated MP3, CD, DVD and navigation. A 14-speaker Bose stereo is also standard in the Turbo. Turbo S trim adds carbon fiber interior materials, 18-way adaptive sport seats with memory, 21-inch Turbo II wheels, dynamic chassis control, torque vectoring and Porsche's Sport Chrono Package.
Lots of optional equipment can be specified on the Cayenne, including special exterior paint, special 19-inch wheels, larger fuel tank, Lane Change Assist, the Walnut or Anthracite Birch Interior Package, Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porsche Dynamic Light System, front and rear Park Assist, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes and more.
Standard safety features across the range include 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist and brake readiness, advanced airbags throughout the cabin, traction control and stability control.
Several Powerful Engine Options
Luxurious Interiors
Excellent Handling
High People Carrying And Cargo Capacity
The Porsche Cayenne returns for 2016 essentially unchanged. It remains one of Porsche's top sellers.
The Porsche Cayenne represents the ultimate in SUV performance and capability. All are agile, quick, able handlers that rival many sports cars, but also offer the versatility of being able to tow between 6,000 and 7,700 pounds. With seven trim levels available--Base, Diesel, S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S and S E-Hybrid--there's a Cayenne to suit all enthusiasts. With a starting price of just $59,600, getting into a Cayenne rather than a BMW or Mercedes SUV is a real option.
