Car reviews

Porsche took a big risk when it launched the Cayenne - up until then it had only ever built small sports cars. But the large four-wheel drive has proved a popular choice as an alternative to models such as the Range Rover Sport and BMW X5. The Porsche badge has helped in part, but that's not to say the Cayenne is all about show. It uses a sophisticated four-wheel drive system to give superb traction, while the handling is nothing short of amazing, considering the sheer size and weight. The original design was rather unattractive - as if a 911 body had been stretched over a large 4x4 silhouette. Thankfully significant changes in 2007 introduced a sleeker, more attractive look along with more powerful engines. However the biggest change was in early 2009 when a diesel model was introduced - making the Cayenne the first ever Porsche to be powered by a diesel engine.