- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
3.0SC/70kW Hybrid, 6 cyl.
- Engine Power
376kW (comb), 310Nm
- Fuel
Hybrid (98) 3.4L/100KM
- Manufacturer
4WD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
3 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid she says, he says review
The car: Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid
How much: $139,200 plus on-road and dealer costs
Vital statistics: 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine with electric motor; 306kW/590Nm; 8-speed automatic; 3.4L/100km; AWD
He: Hybrids have become so popular in recent years even Porsche has got in on the act. First it was the Panamera and now comes the Cayenne SUV with a petrol-electric, plug-in hybrid powertrain. Our test car was dressed up to look (a little bit) like Mark Webber's hybrid Le Mans racer. But it didn't really go like a race car, in my opinion. In fact, I was a little underwhelmed by the performance. What were your first impressions, Molly?
She: When I first hopped in, it felt like I was getting into the cockpit of an aeroplane, rather than a car! You really feel like you are about to operate a serious machine. Outright performance, you're right, it's not a race car. However I think it's more than adequate and isn't going to be the deal breaker for the buyer of this car. One feature completely new to me was the throttle. Having the ability to choose to drive completely on the electric motor (providing it's charged!) or pushing past the throttle detent to engage the petrol engine. It took some getting used to initially, but I really like the concept. How did you find it Stephen?
He: Yeah, once you start playing with the settings it is a really interesting car with respectable performance. But I'm not sure it feels like a Porsche, it lacks the linear performance that the brand has become synonymous for. And I think that carries over to the driving experience. With the batteries and the electric motor it feels a bit heavy, even by SUV standards, and lacks the agility I expect from the cars from Stuttgart. Did you think that or am I being too harsh?
She: Maybe a little bit, but yes, you can certainly feel the additional 110kg from the hybrid system. 2350kg is a lot of weight to move and it does feel heavy from the driver's seat. You do pay quite the premium to make the jump from the V6 diesel to plug-in hybrid. If you have a short daily commute and ability to charge twice a day, then this car makes a lot of sense. However I am curious as to how much of a reality this will be for most drivers? Do you think the impressive technology and developments Porsche has made in this space will be enough to justify its price tag?
He: I think for some people the technology will appeal, but I don't think they will be traditional Porsche buyers. Like you say, if you only have a short commute the hybrid makes sense but if you're after something for longer commutes or want a proper sporty SUV then I think the V6 S or even the Diesel S would be more appealing. But removing the hybrid powertrain from the equation the Cayenne is a fundamentally impressive SUV, it is spacious, practical and sporty. Would you put the Cayenne on your shopping list, Molly?
She: I am impressed with this car, but the Cayenne Turbo would still be at the top of my list; well, my dream list anyway! I really like the developments that are happening in the electric/hybrid space, however if I was using this car day to day I think I would spend too much time relying on the power to come from the petrol motor. Despite that, I think this car has a competitive place in the market and as you say, a potential new breed of Porsche driver.
He: Electrification is inevitable for all car makers and the Cayenne E-Hybrid is one of the first steps for Porsche. Like you, I'd prefer a Cayenne without the electric motor but thankfully Porsche has a wide range to choose from so everyone is catered for.