2011 Porsche Cayenne - Review

Some call it heresy, but Porsche's SUV is here to stay. A successful volume-seller for good reason, the Cayenne is one of the top sport and luxury SUVs available. Redesigned for 2011, the newest Cayenne is the best yet. MotorAuthority gives the 2011 Cayenne an overall rating of 8.

Power is never short in the Cayenne model line, even if you opt for the base V-6--you'll still get 300 horsepower. Opt for the Cayenne S and you'll get a 400-horsepower 4.8-liter V-8 engine. The Cayenne Turbo adds a pair of turbochargers, bringing output to 500 horsepower, and the Hybrid pairs a 333-horsepower supercharged V-6 with a 47-horsepower electric drive system. Even the presumed laggard in this group--the Hybrid--is quick, too, hitting 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and still managing 20-plus mpg.

All Cayennes come standard with all-wheel drive, and there are a flotilla of features to add on, including air suspension, a panoramic roof, heated windshield, surround-sound audio system, and a nearly endless variation of available wheel, trim, and performance upgrades--all of which add to the price tag as well as the capability of the Cayenne.

As you'd expect from a Porsche, there's plenty of luxury and comfort on tap as well. High build quality, excellent materials, a stylish design inside and out, and a wide array of tech features make the Cayenne an all-around performer.

Some of the negatives include a smallish-feeling cabin, lack of a third-row seat, a somewhat tight second row, and less-than-stellar performance from the base V-6 despite its power output.

For the full take on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne, read the full review at TheCarConnection.