2020 Porsche Cayenne

The 2020 Porsche Cayenne is one of the few SUVs that can rival a high-performance sports car in handling and acceleration capability- Edmunds

The Porsche Cayenne was one of the first sports SUVs in the market and over the years, it has established itself as one of the best. The balance it strikes between being sporty and practical is also very impressive. Although people perceive it to be a midsize luxury SUV, Porsche believes the Cayenne to be a sports car for 5 people. 

For a car that carries a heavy price tag, it is evident that its ownership costs are also high. The 5-year cost town of the Cayenne is $73,206, which breaks down to $14,641 every year. This cost includes fuel, repair, insurance, finance, maintenance, and depreciation. But, it gains an excellent reliability rating of 81 points, which is more than its German rivals. 

Plenty of features are available, but prices skyrocket quicker than a Turbo model accelerates to 60 mph- The Car Connection

The Porsche Cayenne has a starting price of $66,800, excluding a $1,350 destination charge. The Cayenne Coupe, priced at $75,300, debuts its year and we have reviewed it separately. The Cayenne has a high initial price for a luxury midsize SUV but Porsche compensates it with a good list of niceties. Besides the famous Sport Chrono package, the Cayenne is available with three other optional packages. Keep in mind that adding optional packages can increase the price tag by a drastic amount.

The Cayenne lacks enough standard driver-assist technologies. For that, you need to buy the $6,420 Assistance package. The Premium package adds adaptive LED headlights, a 14-speaker Bose premium audio system, proximity keyless entry, heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, 14-way power front seats, and auto-dimming exterior mirrors. The Premium Plus package includes the same contents as the above package but also adds quad-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. 

Trim	Cayenne
MSRP (AWD)	$66,800
Key Features	LED headlights
	8-way power front leather sport seats
	18-inch alloy wheels
	12.3-inch touchscreen w/ Apple CarPlay
	10-speaker sound system
	Dual 7-inch instrument cluster
	Power tailgate
	Dual-zone automatic climate control
	Rearview camera
	Front & rear parking sensors
	Rain-sensing windshield wipers
	SiriusXM

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Porsche provides you with many customization options to customize your Cayenne as per your tastes and choice. We suggest buying the Assistance package and Premium package for getting access to more comfort and safety features. If you want even more power-packed performance just at a push of a button, equip the Sport Chrono package as well. 

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It's a grin-inducing thing to hustle along a twisting two-lane, lunging from apex to apex, accompanied by a growling rumble from the exhaust- MotorTrend

The Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine. This engine comes with a twin-scroll turbocharger which has been placed between the cylinder banks and helps in producing 340 hp along with a torque of 331 lb-ft. This engine comes paired with 8-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system. The engine offers seamless power delivery while the gearbox offers slick shifts. When properly equipped, the Cayenne can tow up to 7,700 pounds, which is pretty good for a luxurious SUV. 

The Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) keeps lateral movements in check and endows the SUV with delightfully tight controls. It hugs corners pretty nicely and handles really well. The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with the air suspension sure does a great job of cushioning sharp edges and potholes by actively altering the damping. Porsche also deserves a special round of applause for the way the steering has been set up. It weighs up nicely and is bursting with feedback. 

The Cayenne doesn't move like a sports car, though. It's not as agile as you would expect. It accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 5.9 seconds and finishes a quarter-mile in 14.4 seconds. The optional Sports Chrono package improves the throttle response to complete it in 5.7 seconds. The top speed is limited to 150 MPH. Unlike its acceleration, the Cayenne displays an aggressive braking performance. When decelerating from 60 MPH, the SUV takes 106 feet to stop. During hard braking, there is no sign of nose dive. 

Models	2020 Porsche Cayenne	2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450	2020 Audi Q7	2020 BMW X5
MSRP	$66,800	$61,150	$60,800	$61,200
Engine	3.0L Turbo V6	3.0L Turbo Inline-6	3.0L Turbo V6	3.0L Turbo Inline-6
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	9-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic
Power	335 hp @ 5,300 RPM	362 hp @ 5,500 RPM	335 hp @ 5,000 RPM	335 hp @ 5,500 RPM
Torque	332 lb-ft. @ 1,340 RPM	369 lb-ft. @ 1,600 RPM	369 lb-ft. @ 1,370 RPM	330 lb-ft. @ 1,500 RPM
0-60 MPH	5.9 sec	5.7 sec	5.0 sec	5.0 sec
Quarter Mile	14.4 sec	14.3 sec	13.7 sec	13.8 sec
Top Speed	150 MPH	130 MPH	130 MPH	130 MPH
Towing Capacity	7,700 lbs	7,700 lbs	7,700 lbs	6,603 lbs

The BMW X5 and the Audi Q7 go hand in hand to fight for the trophy. Both of them are competitive in terms of acceleration but the Q7 does a great job in hiding its weight. The 362 ponies from the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 don't help to offer a quick acceleration but gives a good challenge to the Cayenne. 

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The Cayenne isn't guilty of guzzling fuel, but it won't be accused of sipping it, either- CarAndDriver

No one would believe that a Porsche has a competitive fuel economy. That's right. According to the EPA, the Cayenne returns 19 MPG in the city, 23 MPG on a highway, and 20 MPG combined. These numbers are right in line with its rivals. That's what amazes most buyers. Also, note that the Cayenne comes standard with an AWD system. 

To satisfy its buyers, Porsche also included a 23.7-gallon fuel tank, which is probably one of the largest in the segment. The result of that is a combined driving range of 474 miles, which is not too bad for a turbocharged V6. Compared to its rivals, the Cayenne boasts appreciable city and highway ranges, thereby qualifying for a good cruiser. 

Models	2020 Porsche Cayenne	2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450	2020 Audi Q7	2020 BMW X5
MPG (City)	19	19	17	20
MPG (Highway)	23	24	21	26
MPG (Combined)	20	21	18	22
Fuel Tank (Gallons)	23.7	22.5	22.5	21.9
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)	450/545/474	428/540/472	383/473/405	438/569/482

Considering the power it makes, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450's fuel efficiency is worth appreciating. However, the Beemer has the best fuel estimates in this competition despite housing a small tank. The engine in the Audi Q7 is thirstier and hence, drinks more juice, leading to an average fuel economy. The Cayenne buyers will surely not disappoint with its fuel economy. 

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Fit and finish is up to Porsche's usual exceptional standards, and the design certainly speaks to the Cayenne being different than the norm- Autoblog

As you expect from a German brand, the interior of the Porsche Cayenne is pretty luxurious. The build quality is pretty impressive with good sound insulation. The leather steering wheel feels great under the hands and the leather continues on the dash and doors which makes it feel quite lush. The seats provide the utmost comfort regardless of body size and also provide good support to your back. 

The front seats can be adjusted in 8 different directions but 14-way power front seats with ventilation are available too. Similarly, heated front and rear seats are also an option. Both, the front and rear passengers will enjoy ample space. Adding the optional panoramic sunroof does not cut the headroom but instead makes the cabin feel airy. The ambient lighting is pretty soothing to your eyes. 

Like all Porsches, the Cayenne comes with Porsche Communication Management System that includes a large and sharp 12.3-inch digital touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay support. Sadly, Android Auto is still not offered in the Cayenne. The touch controls are very sensitive and you get haptic feedback. Navigating through the menus is easy while a 10-speaker sound system performs the sound duties. 

Models	2020 Porsche Cayenne	2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450	2020 Audi Q7	2020 BMW X5
Passenger Capacity	5	5	7	5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	N/A	40.5/59.3/40.3	39.9/59.5/41.7	40.7/60.0/39.4
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	N/A	39.6/58.3/40.9	38.8/58.5/38.8	38.7/58.1/37.4
Third Row  (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	N/A	N/A	35.9/49.4/29.2	N/A
Cargo Space (cu-ft)	27.1	33.3	14.8	33.9

When it comes to cargo space, this is where the Cayenne falls short. Pop the tailgate and you will see 27.1 cu-ft. of cargo space before you. On folding the rear seats, the space expands to 60.3 cu-ft., which is average for the segment. The square-shaped trunk and flat loading lip make it easy to load heavy items. Below are some important interior features:

• Tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
• 8-way power front leather seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Aluminum door sill
• Cooled cupholders
• Power tailgate
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ambient lighting
• 12.3-inch touchscreen w/ Apple CarPlay
• 10-speaker sound system
• Dual 7-inch instrument cluster
• Satellite radio

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Staggered front and rear tire widths on the standard 19-inch wheels further enhance the Cayenne’s aggressive stance- Kelly Blue Book

There are no exterior design changes made for the Porsche Cayenne. The front fascia is instantly recognizable as it resembles Porsche's design language. The long sloping bonnet with power domes makes it look much more stunning. Down below, you get wide three-piece air intakes assisted by fog lamps. The low ground clearance of the Cayenne increases its potential for speed on smooth roads. 

The Cayenne sits on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped around all-season tires. It also has the shortest wheelbase in this segment. Car spotters will notice a narrower glass area and a more accentuated taper end at the back of the roofline. The C-pillar is angled forward for a racier look. A full-width horizontal light strip across the tailgate sits under a clear covering above a 3D version of the Porsche logo. 

Models	2020 Porsche Cayenne	2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450	2020 Audi Q7	2020 BMW X5
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,582	4,991	5,082	4,813
Length (in)	193.7	194.3	199.6	194.3
Width (in)	78.1	76.7	77.5	78.9
Height (in)	66.8	70.7	68.5	68.7
Ground Clearance (in)	6.6	7.1	9.4	8.7
Wheelbase (in)	114.0	117.9	117.9	117.1

The Audi Q7 is the bulkiest SUV among its rivals, presumably due to the addition of a third row. The BMW X5's ground clearance is perfect for riding on rough pavements. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 is the tallest SUV here at 70.7 inches. Hence, it offers a better rear headroom. Some main exterior features are listed below:

• LED headlights
• LED taillights
• Front & rear fog lamps
• Puddle lamps
• Black grille with active grille shutters 
• Chrome window trim
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Dual exhaust tips
• Rear roofline spoiler

 The Cayenne is available with a bevy of driver-assistance technology to help keep occupants safe- CarAndDriver

As with other high-end luxury cars, the Porsche Cayenne has not been subjected to any crash tests just for the sake of safety ratings. Therefore, we cannot comment on the SUV's crashworthiness. Porsche has a long history of making cars and with its body primarily made of high tensile steel and aluminum, it is good today that the Cayenne will keep its occupants safe in the event of a crash. 

The Cayenne also comes with a suite of 12 airbags that will make sure to protect the passengers from serious injuries. The Cayenne comes loaded up with abundant driver-assist technologies to keep you safe and assist in keeping you aware of the surroundings while driving. Very few of them are standard but you can upgrade to the Assistance package that fills up the void. These safety features are:

• Rearview camera
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Front & rear parking sensors
• Lane change assist
• Night vision assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• 360-degree camera
• Blind-spot monitor
• Lane departure warning
• Head-up display
• Automatic emergency braking

2020 Porsche Cayenne vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 offers a powerful engine for a lesser price which is also more fuel-efficient than the Cayenne. It also offers a luxurious and comfortable interior with cutting-edge technology like the Cayenne. However, the GLE 450 is a step ahead in terms of cargo capacity and standard active safety features. But it cannot beat the agility and driving dynamics of the Cayenne. 

2020 Porsche Cayenne vs 2020 Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 rides on the same platform as the Cayenne and hence, both SUVs offer agile and sharp handling. But the Q7 offers more performance and agility than the Cayenne. Also, its ride quality is gentler than the Cayenne. Inside, the Cayenne lacks the third-row seating of the Q7 and falls short on cargo volume. The Q7 also offers Android Auto whereas the Cayenne doesn't. Therefore, stick to the Q7 for more features. 

2020 Porsche Cayenne vs 2020 BMW X5

The BMW X5 has been a rival to the Cayenne for more than a decade now. Although both are equally powerful, the X5 takes the upper hand in terms of acceleration and fuel efficiency despite weighing more. Both of them are technologically well equipped and have luxurious and comfortable seating. The X5 also offers a long list of driver aids and costs less than the Cayenne. 

The 2020 Porsche Cayenne has been in the market for quite more than a decade now. This is one of the most credible midsize SUVs of this age. But still considering its rivals, the Cayenne has much more to improve for the price being paid. The main shortcomings of this SUV are the high price tag, less cargo space, and no support for Android Auto. If these things are not a priority for you, then the Cayenne is a good buy. 

2020 Porsche Cayenne FAQs

Is the Porsche Cayenne high maintenance?

Yes, it is. It can cost around $862 every year just for its maintenance. It fou consider other costs like repair, fuel, etc., the Cayenne is really high maintenance. 

Is the Porsche Cayenne a reliable car?

According to J.D. Power, it scored 81 out of 100, which is really impressive. 

Does the Porsche Cayenne have massage seats?

The base Cayenne does not have front massaging seats but h higher trims have. 

Does the Porsche Cayenne have a speed limiter?

The adaptive cruise control with speed limiter helps to keep the driver informed about the car's speed regularly. 

Is the Porsche Cayenne successful?

The Cayenne is responsible for 60% of Porsche's sales. It is an important model for Porsche.