2024 Porsche Cayenne First Drive Review: Another Step Up
2024 Porsche Cayenne: Masterful Evolution
Porsche excels in evolutionary design, and the 2024 Cayenne exemplifies this with significant updates that nearly qualify as a complete overhaul of the third-generation model. This year's changes include a redesigned interior, upgraded exterior, enhanced chassis, and an array of new standard features. The base model retains the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, now with an additional 13 horsepower. The Cayenne S upgrades to a Porsche-developed twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, delivering 468 hp and accelerating to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package.
Power is only part of the Cayenne's appeal. The revised suspension improves comfort and performance, while standard features now include Matrix Design LED headlights, Porsche Active Suspension Management, Lane Change Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and wireless charging. The new 20-inch wheels are standard, with the Cayenne Turbo Coupe GT riding on 22-inch wheels. We tested the Cayenne S and Turbo Coupe GT on California's coastal highway and Malibu canyons.
Exterior: Subtle Sophistication
Porsche's design philosophy for the Cayenne remains understated yet athletic, with the 2024 model featuring restyled fenders, hood, and distinctive headlight units. The rear sports new three-dimensional taillights and a redesigned fascia with an integrated license plate holder. The Turbo GT has two sizable exhaust outlets, while the base SUV features a quad-outlet setup. New colors include Algarve Blue Metallic, Montego Blue Metallic, and Arctic Grey.
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Interior: Ergonomic Excellence
The interior redesign addresses previous criticisms with the gear selector now on the dashboard, freeing up the center console. The new layout includes user-friendly controls for heating and air-conditioning, and additional storage space. Porsche has balanced digital and analog elements, ensuring frequently used controls are easily accessible. The seating and driving position remain comfortable, with ample rear space for tall passengers.
The upgraded steering wheel, familiar to 911 drivers, now includes selectors for drive modes (Normal, Offroad, Sport, and Sport Plus) and a toggle button for gauge cluster functions and displays.
Infotainment: Porsche Driver Experience
The new Porsche Driver Experience system, borrowed from the Taycan, balances digital and analog elements beautifully. The 12.6-inch curved gauge cluster offers customizable displays, while the 12.3-inch center screen features the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with apps like Spotify and Apple Music. An optional 10.9-inch passenger display provides access to infotainment and performance data, and streams video content without distracting the driver.
Drivetrains: Power and Precision
The 2024 Cayenne offers four drivetrain options, with a potential fifth in the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid. The base plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged V6 with a new 174-hp electric motor for 463 hp. The base gas model delivers 348 hp and 369 lb-ft. The new 4.0-liter V8 in the Cayenne S produces 468 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Turbo GT’s twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, now at 650 hp, delivers an exhilarating driving experience.
In our testing, the Cayenne S’s V8 significantly outperformed the V6, providing authoritative power and a refined exhaust note. The Turbo GT’s V8 is even more aggressive, with a boost mode for peak performance.
Driving Impressions: Balanced Excellence
The Cayenne has always impressed, and the 2024 models enhance its appeal. The Cayenne S remains the sweet spot, offering a smooth ride, responsive chassis, and excellent steering. It excels both as a fast cruiser and a capable performer on winding roads. The new suspension setup and improved power delivery enhance the driving experience, providing a noticeable difference between comfort and sport modes.
The Turbo GT, available only as a coupe, offers a more intense Porsche experience. Its adaptive air suspension minimizes body motion without compromising ride quality, allowing for spirited driving without discomfort for passengers.
Conclusion: Luxury Meets Performance
The 2024 Cayenne continues to balance luxury and sportiness effortlessly. The Cayenne S, priced at $95,700 for the SUV and $102,100 for the coupe, remains the ideal blend of both worlds. The $79,200 base model is also compelling, offering ample power for daily use. The Cayenne coupe starts at $84,300 with the gas V6 and $95,700 with the hybrid setup.
Finding flaws in the new Cayenne is challenging. While some rivals offer more space, none match its precise driving dynamics or balance of comfort and athleticism. Porsche’s consistent quality shines through in this refined evolution of one of its finest models, proving you can have luxury and fun in one vehicle, albeit at a price.
