Porsche Cayenne (2023) Review

author: FutureCar Staff    

With a wealth of engineering changes underneath and visual updates to the body and interior, the Porsche Cayenne facelift stands out from the crowd. The new LED matrix headlights are easily noticeable, and high-definition ones are available at an additional cost. The new bumpers front and rear give the car a fresh look, with a slightly widened grille resembling the Macan model.

The most significant change is the removal of the 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine from the Cayenne S, which has been replaced with an overhauled version of the 'EA825' 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8. This V8 engine was initially developed by Porsche and their technical partner Audi in 2017. As a result, the Cayenne and the Cayenne E-Hybrid are the only six-cylinder models available in the showroom lineup, which currently consists of four models.

In the future, Porsche plans to introduce a Turbo, a GTS, and a V8-powered Cayenne S E-Hybrid, expanding the range. The plug-in hybrid models (PHEVs) are expected to account for more than three-quarters of the UK sales mix. However, the range-topping Cayenne Turbo GT will not be available in Europe and the UK due to stricter carbon emissions regulations. Instead, customers can opt for the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid with a GT package that mimics the performance and appearance of the range-topping model.

Below the range-topping PHEV, Porsche will offer two additional electrified models. The cheaper Cayenne E-Hybrid features an overhauled V6 engine and a 174bhp electric motor, along with a larger battery that provides an electric-only range of 46 miles. This places the car in the 8% BIK tax bracket, making it an attractive option for company car buyers. However, the increased battery size adds 370kg to the car's kerb weight compared to the base Cayenne.

Furthermore, Porsche will introduce the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, which utilizes the same battery and motor technology as the Cayenne E-Hybrid but offers a V8 engine at a lower price than the Turbo E-Hybrid.

In terms of suspension, Porsche continues to use steel coil suspension for lower-range Cayennes, while height-adjustable air springs are optional on some models and standard on others. All models now come with new double-valved adaptive dampers that allow independent adjustment of compression and rebound. Additionally, the front wheel and tire size have been slightly modified to enhance the car's rolling refinement.

Standard on the Cayenne is four-wheel drive, which is paired with an eight-speed torque-converter gearbox. Optional features include mechanical torque vectoring, four-wheel steering, and active anti-roll bars on most models.

FutureCar Staff