2023 Porsche Cayenne Facelift: A Sharper, More Refined SUV
Porsche has introduced a refreshed version of its Cayenne SUV. The base model, simply named Cayenne, now features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 petrol engine generating 260kW and 500Nm of torque. It’s a significant upgrade over the previous base version, which had less power and a smaller 2.9-liter engine. This V6 is the sole pure-petrol option in the Cayenne range, as the Cayenne S has transitioned to a V8 engine.
The Cayenne retains its all-wheel-drive system and is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Porsche claims a 0-100km/h time of six seconds, making it one of the slower models in Porsche’s lineup. The starting price for this model is $140,200 before on-road costs, but with Porsche’s options, it’s easy to exceed $150k.
The design changes in the refreshed Cayenne are relatively subtle, including reprofiled headlights with matrix technology, a new front bumper, and alterations to the metal panels for the bonnet and front wings. Inside, the Cayenne boasts a redesigned cabin with a 12.6-inch curved instrument cluster and a central 12.3-inch infotainment screen. An optional third information panel is available for the passenger.
The new engine offers improved response and adequate power, allowing the Cayenne to accelerate swiftly and maintain smooth progress. The Cayenne offers driving modes for customization, and you can manually shift gears using tactile, well-weighted paddles behind the steering wheel. The engine provides a pleasing balance between powerful sounds during acceleration and a hushed tone during cruising.
While the Cayenne can’t match Porsche’s sports cars for pure driving excitement, it exhibits surprising agility for its size and weight. The direct steering and quick changes in direction contribute to a feeling of connection with the road that sets it apart from rivals. The Cayenne, even with steel springs, manages to balance body control effectively, although it can transmit more road noise and imperfections. An air-sprung version may offer better isolation, according to Porsche.
Overall, the Cayenne maintains its Porsche performance DNA, offering a slightly sportier ride than some competitors from other luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes. The cabin reflects high-quality materials, supreme build quality, and a user-friendly infotainment system with clear graphics and solid physical controls. The interior is comfortable for four adults on long journeys, and the boot provides ample storage space.
Quick recap
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Porsche Cayenne |
| Engine | 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 petrol engine |
| Power Output | 260kW |
| Torque | 500Nm |
| Drive System | All-wheel drive |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
| 0-100km/h Time | Six seconds |
| Price | Starting at $140,200 before on-road costs (Options can push the total above $150k) |
| Exterior Changes | Subtle design updates including reprofiled headlights, new front bumper, and changes to metal panels for the bonnet and front wings |
| Interior Features | Redesigned cabin with a 12.6-inch curved instrument cluster, central 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and an optional third information panel for the passenger |
| Engine Performance | Improved engine response and acceleration with pleasing engine sounds during acceleration and quiet cruising |
| Handling | Agile handling with a feeling of connection to the road, direct steering, and quick changes in direction |
| Suspension | Two-valve shock absorbers for a balance between comfort and body control |
| Ride Comfort | Slight road noise and some imperfections are felt, especially in models with steel springs. The air-sprung version may offer better isolation. |
| Interior Quality | High-quality materials, supreme build quality, and user-friendly infotainment system with clear graphics and solid physical controls |
| Interior Space | Comfortable for four adults with ample storage space in the boot |
In conclusion, Porsche’s updated Cayenne remains a compelling choice for those who appreciate a well-rounded luxury SUV with a sporty edge, while the revamped cabin adds to its allure. Porsche’s careful refinements ensure the Cayenne’s continued appeal in the premium SUV segment.
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