The Cayenne: Porsche's Backbone and Cash Cow

As you know, since its debut in 2002, it has been a global mega-hit, becoming synonymous with premium SUVs. The 'Cayenne' has become Porsche's third pillar, alongside the 911 and Boxster/Cayman. In fact, it's no exaggeration to say it has become Porsche's backbone and cash cow.

However, the backdrop has certainly changed compared to a few years ago when the first generation was selling like hotcakes. Beyond the economic downturn in developed countries and the rise of emerging economies after the Lehman shock, environmental issues that seem to negate the very existence of SUVs are the most concerning matter for the Cayenne. Enhancing dynamic performance is almost a company motto for Porsche. To this, they must add fuel efficiency improvements and also focus on gaining market share in emerging countries. Porsche itself predicts that the most basic V6 model will account for half of all grades, despite the challenging handling.

180kg Lighter Body with 400Nm/3,000rpm Power

The V6 engine installed in the new Cayenne has a different configuration from the one in the Panamera V6, which debuted around the same time. This is due to differences in the chassis and drivetrain, as well as internal factors such as the joint development agreement with VW taking effect. While using a narrow-angle V6 of the same type as VW's, the Cayenne V6 has undergone dedicated tuning, resulting in the same maximum output of 300ps as the Panamera V6. The adoption of an 8-speed automatic transmission, which widens the gear range both up and down, has eliminated the need for a sub-transmission. As a result, the drivetrain alone has achieved a weight reduction of 33kg compared to the previous model, and with changes to the body structure, the new physique, which is up to 180kg lighter, can be said to have more than sufficient power.

Incidentally, while the maximum torque of 400Nm is exactly the same as the Panamera V6, it is generated at a rotational speed 750rpm lower, at 3,000rpm. This is likely due to its long-stroke design, but it can be considered a setting appropriate for an SUV that also takes off-road driving into account.

Even Stronger, Smoother Acceleration

The test drive was conducted mainly on the Autobahn and country roads, and the performance of the Cayenne V6 was more than adequate. The reduced weight, improved aerodynamics, and the wider-ranging 8-speed automatic transmission work in concert to give the new Cayenne noticeably stronger and smoother acceleration compared to the previous late-model V6. The official performance figures are 7.5 seconds for 0-100 km/h and a top speed of 230 km/h. These sporty numbers were palpable even during a relaxed 200 km/h cruise on the Autobahn.

Of course, rival SUVs can also perform at this level. However, the true pleasure of the new Cayenne lies in experiencing the high quality and precision characteristic of a Porsche product during this process. The rigidity of the body is a given, but the refined rotation of the engine and the precise movement of the suspension, transmitted through the steering and accelerator pedal, offer a feel that truly sets it apart from competitors. It's certainly not a small car, but the consistent sense of being perfectly balanced suggests that the DNA of a sports car brand cannot be underestimated.

Flat and Natural Cornering Feel

This un-SUV-like, Porsche-like character is particularly evident on winding roads. The body control, enhanced by the optional air suspension, is exceptionally high, allowing for flat and natural cornering at any speed. The lightness of the nose, unique to the V6, is especially noticeable in terms of cornering feel; there is virtually no sense of the heavy inertia that causes the nose to plow through tight corners. Furthermore, the ride comfort has seen significant improvement from the previous model, and combined with these factors, the cabin environment has been elevated to a level befitting a luxury class vehicle.

Sufficient power, excellent fuel economy, and a nimble agility not found in other models. In the past, these might not have been compelling reasons to choose a Cayenne. However, they align exceptionally well with the greatly shifted values of today. If I were to personally choose the best buy among the Cayennes right now, I would unequivocally recommend the V6.