We reside in an era where coupe SUVs have carved their niche. These SUVs, characterized by their stylishly sloped rear roofs, are particularly favored by certain demographics. Notably, the recently updated 3rd generation Porsche Cayenne made its debut in the Middle East last year, accompanied by its revamped Coupe version. To discern the distinctions between the new and its predecessor, and to conduct a thorough evaluation of the 2024 Porsche Cayenne S Coupe, we embarked on a test drive. Here are my reflections on Porsche's latest slant-roof SUV.
Visually, the new Coupe variant may not appear drastically different to the untrained eye. It retains the sporty profile of the Cayenne, albeit with a roofline that, while stylish, hasn't quite reached perfection. A closer look reveals redesigned trapezoidal headlamps, replacing the previous triangular ones, and new matrix LEDs that add depth to the front fascia. The rear lights now span continuously. In essence, the Cayenne S Coupe is a striking SUV that benefits from its prestigious badge, attracting enthusiasts with its fresh appeal and sporty demeanor, though not necessarily for its aesthetic perfection.
The interior remains quintessentially Porsche, with some modern touches that align with the latest Porsche lineup. Inside, the German automaker's pursuit of perfection is evident, with a predominantly linear layout. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and luxury is subtly infused throughout. Observe the bronzed accents on the doors and dashboard. The key interior update is the addition of a passenger-side infotainment screen that, when combined with the central unit, forms a large panel that darkens when the vehicle is off. This screen allows the front passenger to enjoy entertainment or manage navigation without distracting the driver.
The sporty three-spoke steering wheel, reminiscent of the 911, is a standout feature, equipped with a circular Drive Mode selector. Nearby, the compact transmission lever sits on the dashboard, above which is a fully digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offers a seamless menu flow, though Porsche's navigation and voice controls could use improvement. Thankfully, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are available.
The supportive front seats offer extensive adjustability, and with the new model, the driver can control the passenger seat. Rear passengers enjoy ample space in the adjustable, contoured seats, though the central hump is a minor inconvenience. The sloping roof slightly reduces cargo space, but there's still room for 592 liters, expandable to 1,502 liters with the seats folded. For larger items, the 3,500 kg towing capacity is available.
Under the hood, the previous 2.9-liter twin-turbo has been superseded by a 4.0-liter biturbo V8, boosting power and torque. On the road, the Cayenne S Coupe is a powerhouse, delivering exhilarating acceleration and handling, complemented by a robust exhaust note. The wide tires and all-wheel drive system ensure excellent grip and stability, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. However, the fuel economy is notably heavy, with observed consumption at 18.5l/100km.
The Cayenne has long been a favorite for those seeking a sporty family SUV, and the latest iteration upholds this tradition with its superior build quality and performance heritage. However, the high price tag is a consideration. Personally, I would opt for the regular Cayenne S for its additional cargo space and cost savings, despite the Coupe's slight edge in speed and style.
