2010 Porsche Cayenne: Road Test
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Our road test for the 2010 Porsche Cayenne includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Porsche Cayenne from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Porsche Cayenne, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Porsche Cayenne help you decide if a 2010 Porsche Cayenne is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.4 |
A manual-transmission GTS is the only Cayenne made available for testing so far. Its muscular V8 delivers smooth, strong acceleration in most any situation. Some testers find shifter/clutch action less than ideal, a good reason, perhaps, to spring for the optional automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | 3.6 |
Thirsty, even by V8-powered SUV standards. In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged just 12.3 mpg. Another reason to opt for the automatic is its higher projected fuel economy. All Cayenne models require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.2 |
Cayenne GTS' ride is good overall, despite standard 21-inch wheels and high-performance tires. As is typical of adjustable suspensions, the "sport" setting proves too firm on all but glass-smooth roads. "Comfort" is too soft. "Normal" provides the best balance of comfort and control.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.9 |
As nimble as can be expected of a tall, 5500-lb SUV. Cayenne corners with good grip and balance with direct steering and modest cornering lean. Strong brakes are more than up to any stopping task.
QUIETNESS
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.9 |
GTS' V8 makes a great performance growl during fast acceleration and is reasonably quiet otherwise. Wind noise is low, and tire noise is modest, even with its performance treads.
CONTROLS
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 6.1 |
Dashboard has lots of buttons, conveys lots of information, and requires pre-drive familiarization--especially with the navigation system. Small audio buttons contrast with large, simple toggles for climate, suspension, and transfer-case adjustments. Some testers complain of the left-mounted ignition switch--a Porsche tradition that others find unobjectionable.
DETAILS
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.2 |
As expected at this price level, Cayenne's interior is impeccably assembled with top-notch materials. GTS has Alcantara leather upholstery that looks and feels especially rich.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.5 |
Ample headroom and generous seat travel contribute to fine overall comfort. Lateral support is excellent, though the seat bottoms may pinch some physiques. Cayenne's tall build makes for good forward visibility. Large outside mirrors, but headrests and narrow rear window obstruct the view aft. Slight step-up into cabin, but no-fuss entry and exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.1 |
Room enough for three, but a center rider gets short shrift for legroom, seat cushioning, and shape. Headroom is adequate, along with good legroom and foot space. The cushion is supportive, but too firm for some testers. Doors open wide, but passengers need to twist ankles to clear the door frames on exit.
CARGO ROOM
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.3 |
Cargo room is good with the rear seat up, but overall is not expansive for an SUV. The seat splits 60/40 and folds flat for plenty of space, but you must first flip the bottom cushions, then remove and stow the headrests. Center-console storage is generous, but there's not much other room for small items.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 6.1 |
Cayenne is a unique take on the SUV formula, emphasizing sport way more than utility. What else from Porsche? But, the price for Porsche virtues--thoroughbred handling, blazing acceleration, and nameplate prestige--will be too high for all but an appreciative few. The cost becomes higher still when costly options are added.
Total Score
| GTS, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 70.3 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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