2007 Porsche Cayenne

by Pankaj Dev

A SUV for all the right reasons and that does mean meandering off-road too, not much has changed in the new Cayenne. Although a closer inspection will spot the narrower headlights that now feature projected beam units, and bi-xenon units featuring cornering lights on the Cayenne S and Turbo sport models.

Other changes under the skin include revised front air intakes for improved cooling and, as a result, engine performance. The wheel arches are more heavily contoured, and the rear of every Cayenne now includes a diffuser-style apron and new roof spoiler.

The interior remains the same but I must say that the levels of fit and finish and the materials used are of one heck of quality. I especially liked the suede lining and full black interior trim of the Cayenne Turbo.

The term 'evolution not revolution' was surely coined by Porsche. It has not only survived its long and chequered history while basically churning out cars that looked virtually the same - a tweak here, a nip and a tuck there but still looking similar from last year's model! Then, why change something that is already 'good'.
I have driven many a brilliant car and SUV and up until now my fav 4x4 used to be the really competent Range Rover. Well, after driving the new Cayenne, I have to admit that my loyalties have changed and this has a lot to do with the way that this German missile drives. Porsche has added a new technical gizmo to the Cayenne called the Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilizer system. The true colors of this system were evident during the drive in the narrow gravel tracks on Jordanian mountains. PDCC significantly reduced body roll during cornering and counterbalanced it wherever possible. From a driver's perspective, the result is improved handling and agility, greater directional stability and ride comfort. When off-road, the system increases axle articulation for improved traction.

Porsche has bumped up the capacity in all engines with the base Cayenne getting a new 3.6-litre V6, up from 3.2-litres. Developing 290 bhp (up 40 bhp) and 385 Nm of torque (from the earlier 310 Nm), the V6 now accelerates from 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 141mph. The Cayenne S gets a new 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, which with a new direct petrol injection system and the addition of VarioCam Plus valve control, now produces 500 Nm of torque while power output rises by 45 bhp to 385bhp over the model it replaces.

But the joker in the pack (if you could call it that) is the twin-turbocharged 4.8-litre V8 nestling in front of the driver and delivering 500 bhp and a whooping 700 Nm of torque. Impressive figures these and it endows the Cayenne Turbo with a go that is astounding, invigorating and totally exhilarating.

Although sporty, the Cayenne is a practical Porsche. There is reasonable size behind the rear seats for luggage. The rear hatch has twin openings to allow quick access to the boot. Front seats afford generous space while tall occupants at the rear might find knee-room a tad stifled, although head and shoulder space is adequate. With performance ranging from the incredible to the ridiculous, the Cayenne, especially the V8-engined versions, has an image that no other off-roader can match. On the flipside, it is more expensive and, let's be frank, is more of a rival to sports saloons, so its off-road ability becomes pointless.