Evolution of the Porsche Cayenne
As the Porsche company approached the 21st century, they realised they were missing out on what was becoming a sizable market sector, namely the mid sized crossover market. Up until this point the sector had been dominated by brands such as Land Rover and Jeep. However, since the introduction of the Mercedes ML in 1997 and the BMW X5 in 1999 it was becoming obvious to Porsche that they were missing out on something.
Consequently Porsche designed and introduced its own interpretation of the type in 2002. Porsche were able to call on other similar models within its stable including the Audi Q7 and the Volkswagen Touareg for inspiration and know how, to allow it to develop a rival for the BMW and Mercedes offerings. Also, with the advent of the Porsche Cayenne as it was to be known, Porsche offered something that had not been available in a Porsche since the discontinuation of the Porsche 928 in 1995, namely a V8 engine.
The base model Porsche Cayenne though is powered by a VR6 derived engine, which is the same unit that powers the above mentioned VW Touareg as well as the Volkswagen Golf R32. It produces around 250 horse power which is good enough the get the rather large and heavy Porsche Cayenne from rest to 100 kph (62 mph) in around 7.5 seconds. Read the rest of this entry »
2011 Porsche Cayenne Review
Though critics have knocked the fact that the sporty posh car maker has been dabbling in SUVs, they may close their lips after seeing the new 2011 Porsche Cayenne.
One of the most noticeable changes is the drive. In earlier models, the critics were right, Porsche’s SUVs were heavy and didn’t have the smooth drive that Porsche owners covet. But they have learned a lot since their first trial in 2003, and have even gone leaps and bounds from last year’s model.
This year’s model is lighter and more agile than ever. A 400 pound drop from previous models can contribute to the overall more Porsche-feel. How did they accomplish this incredible Biggest Loser like weight loss? They literally have shown their innovation by being able to cut pounds everywhere. First off, they have used an extensive amount of aluminum in the doors, hood and chassis. Then they went on to the engine, park break, and even the tires? I had no idea that tires could be made lighter, but somehow they achieved it. The Cayenne’s towing capacity is enough for all your kid’s friends and their lacrosse equipment (it gets maxed out at about 6,000 pounds). The V-6 engine makes is just enough car for those beginning drivers, which makes the Cayenne a great SUV to pass down for a Sweet 16 gift– when the time comes. Read the rest of this entry »