Overview

Looking for the best SUV on sale? Many image-conscious buyers and – especially – driving enthusiasts would say that on this page you’ve found it. The Porsche Cayenne may not be pretty, but it is an incredibly impressive machine. Whether you want an unapologetic V8 or a high-tech hybrid, there’s a Cayenne to suit you.

The Porsche Cayenne is the German brand’s largest high-rise performance car. Porsche pompously calls the Cayenne the epitome of the sporty SUV, and although there are now more extreme and more expensive sporting SUVs available – including the Ferrari Purosangue and Lamborghini Urus – for all-round capability the Cayenne offers a heck of a package.

It has remarkable strength and depth across its range. This third generation Cayenne, facelifted and updated in 2023, begins with a 3.0-litre V6 turbo petrol that offers a credible and accessible alternative to the likes of the BMW X5, Maserati Levante and Range Rover Sport – not to mention the mechanically similar Audi Q7.

The line-up goes on to includes turbo V8 Cayenne S models and a selection of no less than three E-Hybrid variants. These plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) culminate in the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid at the very top of the tree.

The most powerful Cayenne ever produced, this offers buyers a startling 739hp in combination with up to 45 miles of electric-only driving range. So while there is no conventional (non-hybrid) Cayenne Turbo available new any more, itsreplacement is superior in almost every respect.

We’ll explain the ‘almost’ later in this review, but you can always look at used Porsche Cayennes if you don’t want a PHEV version. Similarly, those who want to pair the sporty drive with a sportier appearance should check out our separate Porsche Cayenne Coupe review.

Whichever engine you choose you’ll be getting one of the finest SUVs to drive, supported by a high-quality interior that entirely matches up to the premium pricing. The options list means there’s customisation available galore, while the cabin design exceeds the high-tech standard set by the Porsche Taycan electric car.

For instance, as well as the digital screens for the instruments and the central infotainment system, in the Cayenne you can optionally add a third screen in the front for the passenger. This can be used to watch films or view vehicle and sat-nav info.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the third-generation Porsche Cayenne and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run.