Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Review — A Powerful Family SUV

A remarkable product can significantly alter the trajectory of a company, and the Porsche Cayenne is a prime example of this phenomenon. Introduced in 2002, the Cayenne transformed Porsche from a traditional sports car manufacturer into a powerhouse in the SUV market. Today, alongside its smaller counterpart, the Macan, the Cayenne generates a substantial portion of Porsche’s profits and offers a diverse lineup, including petrol and electric options as well as hybrids. The Cayenne also pioneered the European market for luxury SUVs that are spacious, comfortable, and notably fast, prompting other high-end brands like Maserati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini to follow suit.

The latest iteration, the Cayenne E-Hybrid, strives to blend the best features of multiple vehicle types. Upon entering and adjusting the electrically-operated driver’s seat, one might be surprised to find that this SUV weighs almost 2.5 tonnes. The secret to its agility lies in the electric motor, which produces an immediate torque of 339 lb-ft, eliminating the wait often associated with internal combustion engines. The Cayenne navigates curves remarkably well for a vehicle of its size, thanks to its sophisticated suspension system that minimizes body roll and enhances traction.

When luxury SUVs began to rise in popularity in the early 2000s, manufacturers adopted unique design philosophies. Range Rover opted for a more utilitarian base and sculpted it to be sporty, while Porsche took the opposite approach, adapting a sports car design for utility use. This distinction is evident in the Cayenne’s unmistakable design, characterized by its sleek profile, rounded front, and signature LED headlights.

Equipped with a 21.8 kWh battery, the Cayenne E-Hybrid allows for approximately 35 miles of electric-only driving (with an official range of 50 miles) before the petrol engine engages. Alternatively, the hybrid-auto mode enables smooth driving on electric power with the petrol engine ready to provide additional power when needed.

Essentially, the E-Hybrid encapsulates the essence of modern automotive engineering. It combines the rapid acceleration and quiet operation of an electric vehicle with the efficiency and reduced emissions of a hybrid, all while offering a generous 70-litre fuel tank for longer trips. The vehicle’s interior is designed for comfort, offering tranquility that might surpass any other performance vehicle. In electric driving mode, one can travel with minimal noise thanks to the subtle hum of the electric motor, allowing for easy conversation with rear seat passengers. For those who prefer, there’s an option to activate a sound that alerts pedestrians as the car silently moves in parking areas. The control layout is a practical blend of digital displays and traditional controls, featuring a sizable touchscreen for navigation alongside tactile switches for climate settings.

While the Cayenne E-Hybrid accommodates a family of four, with its two individual rear seats, it effectively serves as a practical family vehicle and a comfortable long-distance ride. However, there’s a consideration for traditional Porsche enthusiasts who appreciate the raw power and sound of a high-performance engine. With a price tag starting at £89,600 for the E-Hybrid Coupé, some may question whether to pay an additional £19,600 for the V8-powered Cayenne GTS Coupé, renowned for its thrilling engine sound.

This point is valid, particularly for those who prioritize daily fuel efficiency. My real-world tests indicated the E-Hybrid’s fuel economy at about 50 mpg, falling short of the official estimate of 72 mpg but still outperforming the GTS Coupé. A notable aspect of the E-Hybrid is its reliance on a home wallbox for charging, completing a charge in around four hours to provide ample range for daily commutes. With mindful driving, refueling will be required only for longer trips, leading to fewer gas station visits — and potentially fewer impulse snack purchases.

A potential drawback is the limited boot space in the E-Hybrid Coupé, which offers only 434 litres (or 1,344 litres with the rear seats folded down) due to the sloping roofline and raised boot floor accommodating the lithium-ion battery. Nevertheless, the cargo area should suffice for a weekend getaway or transporting sports equipment, aligning with the vehicle’s sporty utility appeal.