Porsche SUV


SUV Reviewer

The Porsche SUV caught the world's attention. With curiosity and questions the car industry waited with bated breath for the release of the Cayenne. Porsche officially joined the crossover industry in 2003. While the Porsche SUV crossover looks less like an SUV and more like a stylish station wagon, the third row seating and the driving capacity of the Cayenne make the look and feel of the crossover a unique blend of spirit and innovation.

The Porsche SUV offered little in versatility when it comes to carrying cargo. With the third row seating the cargo area was limited to that which is more in line with most large sedans and station wagons rather than an actual SUV crossover. Nevertheless, for passenger capacity in a fun and highly tuned vehicle the Cayenne is certain to deliver.

To fix this problem, a redesign of the Porsche SUV eliminated the third row of seats a few years after it came out and the current model offers only two rows. The passenger seating was reduced to 5 and styling gives it an absolute definition of Porsche. The Porsche Cayenne delivers on its engine power and each engine size is mated with a specific model. The crossover comes in 4 individual engine sizes, each assigned to a trim model. The base model offers manual transmission and a 290 horsepower V6 3.6 liter engine.

Stepping up through the line of Porsche SUVs the S model brings the 385 horsepower V8 engine. For superior sport tuned ride and more power, the 405 horsepower V-8 is available on the GTS model. The turbo model brings a full 500 horsepower V-8 to the picture. If you want an extra 50 horsepower you have to step up into the Turbo S model which boasts the same engine with a higher horsepower.

The base Porsche SUV offers the Triptonic transmission. All of the trim models above the base model are automatic transmission models. While the engine sizes, transmissions, and the overall styling of the vehicle are good for on road performance, the low profile base makes the Porsche SUV a rather weak off roading competitor. The ability to climb over rocks and other debris is often based on the height of the SUV and the size of the tires combined with the suspension. In this case, the crossover was really a design meant for on road lifestyles.

The Porsche SUV will naturally drive like a Porsche. Reading the center mounted tachometer leaves no room for the imagination as the acceleration and the powerful kick drive the crossover much like one would expect from a Porsche version. The luxury features are, of course, everything you would expect as well. With simple designs that are tailored to the refinement of quality.

While Porsche is still making their SUV models, there are few on the US roadways. With other luxury models offering more off road performance and more cargo area the Porsche version isn't as popular among the luxury crossover crowd. While the designers have done an excellent job blending modern technology with useful function to make a very high quality driving experience, the high performance aspect can be found in some of today's less expensive luxury vehicles with better cargo storage.