Every so often, a car emerges that not only reshapes its segment but also shifts your outlook on possibilities.
The all-new Porsche Cayenne is one such vehicle. During my recent test drive, it quickly became clear that this latest Cayenne is set to elevate the benchmarks of luxury sport utility vehicles (SUVs).
A SYMPHONY OF DESIGN
From the moment you lay eyes on the new Cayenne, its commanding presence demands attention. Porsche has left no stone unturned in revamping its exterior, resulting in an athletic and expressive stance that exudes confidence.
The latest iteration of the Porsche Cayenne exudes a commanding presence with its revamped exterior.
Beyond mere cosmetic upgrades, the redesign encompasses the front end, rear apron, headlights and more, resulting in a distinctly athletic and expressive demeanour.
Noteworthy changes include the more arched wings and flatter-profiled bonnet, lending a sleeker profile.
The headlights, now echoing the lines of the wings, boast a horizontal and steeper stance, emphasising the vehicle’s front. Additionally, the enlarged air intakes and integrated front lights further enhance its bold aesthetics. Standard features include Matrix LED Headlights, with optional HD-Matrix LED Headlights offering enhanced safety and comfort with their innovative technology.
The matrix beam technology ensures optimal illumination without dazzling other vehicles by dividing the high beam area into 11 segments.
On the wheels front, the Cayenne boasts 20-inch light-alloy wheels as standard, with options for 21 and 22 inches. Porsche introduces aerodynamically optimised designs, reducing drag for improved efficiency. In terms of colour options, the Cayenne offers a total of 12 body colours, including three new ones.
The paint to sample option allows for customisation with a range of additional colours, including iconic shades from Porsche’s history.
LUXURY MEETS TECHNOLOGY
Entering the Cayenne feels akin to stepping into a futuristic cockpit. The redesigned cockpit of the Porsche Cayenne boasts cutting-edge technology and luxurious comfort. A fully digital 12.6-inch instrument cluster, with variable display options, sets the tone, while an optional optimised head-up display enhances the driving experience. The standard 12.3-inch central Porsche Communication Management (PCM) display seamlessly integrates into the new dashboard, offering access to all vehicle functions. Native apps like Spotify® and Apple Music® optimise connectivity.
For the first time, a 10.9-inch display is available for the passenger side, enriching their experience with performance data and separate access to infotainment controls. The new multifunction sports steering wheel, derived from the 911, features an elegant, modern, and sporty design. Standard mode switches for driving modes and a toggle button for instrument cluster functions offer intuitive control without diverting attention from the road.
Reflecting the Cayenne’s sporty essence, the interior combines functionality with luxurious comfort. A clean design emphasises width, with horizontal lines enhancing the perception of space. Air vents, elegantly aligned vertically, maintain the Cayenne’s distinctive style.
Large-area decorative features and accent trims follow the interior’s horizontal lines, while a floating look is achieved through structural separation of the centre console and dashboard. All air outlets in the cockpit are designed without louvres for a streamlined aesthetic. The Cayenne’s signature centre console grab handles remain, maintaining its SUV identity.
SUPREME DRIVING EXPERIENCE
Underneath the hood, the Cayenne definitely packs a punch. The Cayenne distinguishes itself with standard steel spring suspension, featuring Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) for the first time.
Utilising regulated vibration dampers with new two-valve technology, PASM enhances both comfort and driving safety, offering a wider range between Comfort and Sport Plus settings.
Optional adaptive air suspension further elevates the driving experience.
In the new Cayenne, PASM is now linked to the Sport Response Button on the steering wheel, priming the engine, transmission, and suspension for dynamic driving situations.
The V6 engine delivers 260 kilowatts (353 PS) and 500 nanometre of torque, achieving a top speed of 248 kilometres per hour.
All Cayenne variants boast a revamped eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission. With shorter reaction and shift times in Sport modes and improved efficiency in Normal mode, the gearbox ensures enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
Software optimisation enhances the interaction between the gearbox and engine, contributing to a seamless driving experience.
UNRIVALED EXPERIENCE
After that test-drive, I’d have to say that it’s evident that the all-new Porsche Cayenne is more than just a luxury SUV as it embodies that bold statement of intent.
Its captivating design, innovative technology and exhilarating performance redefine standards within its segment.
Whether navigating city streets or conquering off-road trails, the Cayenne guarantees an unparalleled driving experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. – Adib Noor
