Porsche Cayenne Review

The Review

Test Drives SUVs Porsche Cayenne Cayenne II - (2011) GTS 4.8 V8 (420 Hp) 4x4 Tiptronic

Well balanced and great to drive, as long as its not driven back to back with the Macan

Summary

Whilst on my spree of test drives, I drove a 2014 Cayenne GTS.

Practicality and Comfort

The Cayenne is a very comfortable place to be. The alcantara seats are very very nice, and adjustable in all ways you can imagine. The steering wheel, dash and centre console are all set nicely around the driver and I felt that I was sitting nice and low in the car, compared to some SUVs where I feel like I am sitting 'on' rather than in! This car sits 5 adults comfortably and even with my relaxed sitting style, there was ample leg room behind me. The boot is big compared to smaller cars like our Q5 and there is plenty of space for luggage and whatever else you might need to haul around. All very good from a comfort and practicality perspective.

Performance and Handling

To say that the performance and handling on this SUV were not great would be unfair. BUT, we made the mistake of driving this on the same day as the Macan GTS, which put a bit of the damper on the experience. Nonetheless, firing up the 4.8 litre naturally aspirated V8 was a giggle. Sounds awesome and gives you all the low down burbles you want from a V8! big tick there. On the road things were good. The car is stable and gives you a good sense of where you are on the road! There were a few occasions where I didn't quite have the Macan GTS level confidence as the steering didn't quite respond as fast as I would expect. It does handle its weight well for a 2 tonne vehicle and I don't think many would grumble about what this car is capable of doing on the road. Good job Porsche!!!

Looks and Style

Black car, black rims and black interior! Mean combination. This car really looked the part. I love it. Oh and tinted lights too. Looking around the car there is nothing not to love and, it tips the Macan if you looking for a chunkier SUV with pretty classic looks and style. The inside is a really nice place again and I can't get enough of alcantara...everywhere! Just gives it a really feel of quality! real nice!!!

Features

Given that the car was a 2014 model, can't say that it was loaded with all the modern mod-cons, but for it age, it was pretty well equip all around. Certainly enough toys to keep the average man-child entertained for a while. BUT with that engine note, you really don't need anything other than the accelerator, steering wheel and seat!!

Would I recommend it? YES

For its size, pace and general practicality, this is one of the best mid-sized SUVs out there. Like I say, its not a sharp and balanced as the Macan GTS, but if you can't live with the smaller dimensions, this is the next best thing!