What Is It?
The hybrid version of Porsche’s bestselling model. Under the hood is a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 making 333 hp, with a 47-hp electric motor wedged between the engine and transmission. Maximum total output is 380 hp. If that sounds familiar, it might be because the engine is used in various Audis and the hybrid system is shared with the Volkswagen Touareg hybrid, which, by the way, has a base price that is $7290 less than the Porsche’s.
How Does It Drive?
The Panamera might take the prize for ugliest mug in the Porsche lineup, but for many the Cayenne still represents the worst bastardization of the brand that brought us the 911, Boxster, and Cayman. Such prejudice evaporates after a few miles behind the wheel, where the composed ride and tactile steering make you say, “Hey, this is the Porsche of SUVs.” As for hybrids, this is one of the best on the market. Cruising around at 30 mph, the engine turns off and on with nary a shudder through the driveline. Floor the gas and this Porsche is quick: 0 to 60 mph takes 5.7 seconds, only 0.2 behind the 400-hp Cayenne S.
How Does It Stack Up?
Forget the Lexus RX450h, which isn’t in the same league either in satisfaction or price. The BMW X6 hybrid is quicker, but lacks the Cayenne’s ride or smooth hybrid integration. Truthfully, this Cayenne has two main rivals, the Touareg hybrid, which costs less but lacks the brand cachet, and the Cayenne S, which also costs less but comes with a roaring V-8. For general comparisons, we consider the Cayenne S and Cayenne S hybrid equal; against the rest of the sporty-luxury SUV field both are as good as or better than the competition, albeit with a price premium in most cases.
What’s the Cost?
Base price is $68,675, $3300 more than a 2011 Porsche Cayenne S. And that’s really the only problem here. While the hybrid gets better fuel economy—at 20/24 mpg city/highway to the non-hybrid’s 16/22—using the EPA combined figures (21 mpg versus 18) and current gas prices, it would take more than 100,000 miles to get the money back. Hey, it ain’t easy—or cheap—being green.
