2005 Porsche Cayenne 4.5-liter...
2005 Porsche Cayenne 4.5-liter engine
Here's what a few actual Cayenne owners had to say about their experiences. Thanks to everyone who responded to our query in the February 2006 issue.
I have had similar situations with my vehicle as you had. The Tiptronic steering wheel shift buttons were problematic when I first starting driving the SUV. I was thoroughly embarrassed when driving my sister-in-law and nephew back from the airport, when making my way on to an on-ramp I hit the shift button in error and the transmission went into D1, revving the engine way up to its redline. My nephew was impressed by all the torque.
I have gone through two sets of tires due to wear and tear and some sort of front-end camber problem that Porsche doesn't know much about but admits exists. I also had to get a separate set of snow tires since the "all-weather" tires were a joke. The SUV then does a respectable job of going through our Midwest winters.
In addition to the above problems, my wife has been joking with me about the remote central locking system and the key fob. I still have strange interactions trying to unlock all the doors remotely at times. She threatened that I had to get rid of the car unless I figured it out. Luckily, she has been having mechanical problems with her BMW X3 lately, so the issue has been quiet.
I have been pleased overall with the vehicle and will probably buy another one in two years' time. I think the Turbo has too much power to handle. The S power is more linear and civilized. I do appreciate the extra oomph getting on the entrance ramps on the Interstates. I can also attest to all the extra room with the rear seats put down. My wife likes to use it for projects that her X3 can't carry. Gas mileage averages 15 mpg on premium fuel, but it still turns heads and I get lots of questions about it in the parking lots.
Hugh Whipple
via the Internet
I have been extremely impressed with Porsche's first attempt at a mainstream SUV. I purchased the vehicle primarily because of its towing capacity, as I have an E30 M3 that I tow to driving events. The Cayenne has performed in an exemplary fashion in this regard. But I also knew I didn't want to drive a truck as my daily driver and, again, the Cayenne makes my short daily commute a real pleasure. Its high level of refinement, its excellent handling, more than adequate power and awesome all-weather capability make it a unique vehicle in the class and quite a nice addition to the Porsche family.
I've read your article updates and share your love for the Porsche Cayenne. I own a 2006 Cayenne Turbo S and I love it, that and the panorama roof. I also own a 1988.5 Ferrari Testarossa, and I find myself not taking it out because the Cayenne is such a blast. And talk about blast; I must say it has been fun blowing away sports cars and laugh at folks that cannot believe they just got dusted by a 5,000-pound SUV. Too funny. It screams.
I had a 2003 BMW X5 with a Dinan supercharger package, but there is no comparison. As for the looks, I do think the Cayenne needs to be put on a few steroids, but some of the factory options help. As for the extra money for the Turbo S package that puts it well above the standard 450-horse Cayenne Turbo, I think spending the extra money was ultimately worth it. It pleases my lead foot-thank goodness for radar detectors.
Maybe Porsche can fit the Carrera GT's 600-bhp 10-cylinder engine into it next? If so, I will buy it. But it would be a must that the sound of the GT comes with it! I've already told my 11-year-old-son that driving this beast will deplete plenty of natural resources, and that he better hope for alternative sources of fuel. I have about 6,500 miles on the car now, and average 7 to 10 miles per gallon. Suck it up baby!