A 340-hp Porsche V8 engin...
A 340-hp Porsche V8 engine
The suspension tuning and taut, precise steering feel was reminiscent of Porsche's sports cars, but the Cayenne ultimately succumbed to its hefty weight through every corner. The tires were compromised and just not sticky enough. Though they have a low profile, the all-season tread could not hold all the inertia the car generated. Using the sport suspension mode only helped reduce body roll to increase cornering confidence, but with less roll the weight transfer loaded the tires up even more. Though it is an SUV, I had hoped for better from a Porsche.
The Cayenne did much better when I finally reached the open stretches of desert highway. This was its element. The wide open roads gave me the opportunity to appreciate the finer details of Porsche's engineering efforts. The gearing, power band, steering, suspension and even interior were just right for long, high-speed cruises. Though some might not like it, the wind noise caused by the high vehicle profile and the rumbling hum from the tires at high speeds made the Cayenne sound like a 747 at high altitude cruise.
" The fact that our long term...
" The fact that our long term Cayenne wears the badge from Stuttgart means two things to me: One, it's got to be the epitome of performance and function, and two, I expect it to be as perfect as a car comes."
I spent most of the trip griping to myself about the awkward placement of the steering wheel controls. I couldn't change volume or cruise control speed unless I took my hands off the 3 and 9 positions. I didn't figure this out until the return leg of the trip, but the crafty German engineers had made toggles, not buttons, so you can pull on them without moving your hands. Nice touch.
I know there's no point for me to cry over spilled milk, since the car has been in production for so long already. I just think it's a pity that all this effort resulted in a vehicle that's not that spectacular. It's not bad, but fails to inspire the driver in me. But what do I know? Cayennes almost constitute half of Porsche's total U.S. sales now.
Quick Stats
Total mileage: 6200
This month's fuel economy: Below 15 mpg even at prolonged cruising speeds.
Road trip costs: $200
Faults: Too heavy
Thumbs up: Steering wheel control buttons that both push and pull
Thumbs down: Weak rear cabin AC and uncomfortable rear seats