Porsche Cayenne (03-09) - Review Review by Simon Harris on 16 July 2007 Last Updated: 25 June 2009 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. 4 out of 5 Other Porsche reviews Summary Facts & Figures Equipment Driving & Performance Comfort Costs Safety & Reliability Buying & Selling Also Consider Company Car Info Owners' Reviews Gallery 4 out of 5 Safety All Cayennes come with front, side and curtain airbags, electronic stability control and traction control, which is fairly typical for an expensive car like this. Cars after the 2007 revisions can be chosen with cornering lights (standard on the Turbo) to provide better illumination in bends and at junctions. A rearward camera for better visibility when reversing is also available as an option and useful on such a big vehicle. Euro NCAP Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe. Visit Euro NCAP for more info 3.5 out of 5 Reliability Porsche's two-year warranty is 12 months short of most on the market, but we've heard of few problems with these cars and Porsche dealers will be keen to put right any faults discovered. Car check problem points Body It's unlikely, but check for signs of off-road damage. Engine/Gearbox A recall in 2008 affecting V6 models where a fuel leak may occur due to a loose fuel line. Other A few recalls in 2004 including one where the spring of the foot operated handbrake may rub on the main wiring harness and damage it. Car Valuations Find used car prices with Parkers accurate car valuations. Find out more Porsche Cayenne cars for sale We have 53 models like this for sale. Find Porsche Cayenne cars for sale Previous: Costs Next: Buying & Selling