2012 PORSCHE CAYENNE Review
Overview
The 2012 Porsche Cayenne comes with a superiorly built exterior and stylishly designed interior, a sliding backseat, increased power and better mileage. It is available in Base Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo and Cayenne Hybrid S trims. The Cayenne competes with the Infiniti FX35/45, BMW X5 and Land Rover Range Rover Sport.
Powertrain And Performance
A 3.6-liter V-6 engine powers the base Cayenne, now with 300 horsepower, up from 290 hp. The Cayenne S is powered by a 4.8-liter V-8 and 400 hp, up from 385 hp. The turbocharged version of this engine pumps out 500 hp. The Cayenne Hybrid S combines a 333-hp, supercharged 3.0 liter engines with a 47-hp electric motor and a 288-volt battery pack. The base Cayenne is the only model offered with a standard six-speed manual transmission. For all other models, an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.
Build And Styling
The sporting character of the Cayenne is evident from all angles and weight has been significantly reduced on all models. Its Porsche shape and design highlights are more distinct than ever before. The new Cayenne is 1.9 inches longer than its predecessor, and an added 1.6 inches in wheelbase ensures extra space and greater versatility.
The ultra luxurious interior features a high center console, dashboard center stack with high-quality fittings and a touch-screen infotainment interface. Porsche's traditional set of five round instruments in the driver?s gauge cluster includes a high-resolution circular TFT screen to the right of the tachometer. It can be used to change radio stations, vehicle settings, or access the navigation system or view the map. Rear-seat comfort is much improved, as well. The bench slides fore-and-aft by 6.3 inches, while the backrest can be adjusted to three different angles.
Safety Features
Frontal, knee and seat-mounted side-impact airbags are standard. Side curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, antilock disc brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control are among the other safety features.
