2018 Porsche Cayenne Review: First Drive, Design, and Performance

First Impressions: 2018 Porsche Cayenne Launch Experience

When I was invited to the launch event of the all-new Porsche Cayenne, I had several preconceived notions about this German SUV. For years, I viewed the Cayenne as a vehicle that strayed from what many would call the "Porsche design language." I also considered it the ultimate example of a fast, sporty family SUV—especially in its Turbo variant. Finally, I always found its interiors to be complex, packed with an overwhelming number of buttons.

But during this launch event, Porsche defied all my expectations. Let me share how Porsche managed to change my perspective on the Cayenne.

A Memorable Launch Event

The event took place at the Fairmont Fujairah hotel, where we were introduced to the new Cayenne. The following day, we embarked on a long drive to Oman, ending with a dinner at the Six Senses Zighy Bay resort. As I set off for the hotel, all I could think about was the thrill of driving the new Porsche Cayenne, especially when switching to Sport mode out on the open road.

Porsche’s Unique Presentation

Porsche orchestrated an impressive introduction to the Cayenne that evening. We were taken on a tour along the hotel’s promenade to the helipad, where Porsche showcased the brand’s history and its first foray into off-road driving with the legendary Porsche 959 Rally.

Afterwards, we were presented with the first-generation Porsche Cayenne, which Deesch Papke, CEO of Porsche Middle East and Africa, humorously referred to as the "ugly duckling." However, it was important to remember that this model introduced the concept of a sporty SUV to the market back in 2002. We continued the tour to see the second-generation Cayenne, which had undergone notable visual enhancements.

The All-New Porsche Cayenne Unveiled

Once at the helipad, the star of the evening was revealed—the fully redesigned Porsche Cayenne. At first glance, the new Cayenne’s strong curves and muscular bodywork immediately reminded me of other Porsche models, giving it a powerful and athletic presence. I noticed the lower hood and a roofline reminiscent of the rear of the iconic 911. The rear design stood out with its beautifully integrated glass panel over the Porsche lettering and a striking red light strip stretching across the tailgate, reminiscent of the new Porsche Panamera.

Refined Interior and Advanced Technology

The impressive design continued inside the cabin. As expected from Porsche, the interior showcased premium materials and a new center console with an elegant, glossy black glass finish, populated by an array of buttons. The 2018 Cayenne is equipped with a new infotainment system similar to the one found in the latest Panamera, featuring a touchpad around the gear selector, a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, and two displays in the instrument cluster. The moment I entered the cabin, I couldn't wait to take the wheel the next day.

Driving Experience: On the Road and Beyond

The following day, after a quick briefing from Porsche, our journey began. I started off in the Cayenne S, one of three variants available this year, alongside the standard Cayenne and the Cayenne Turbo. All versions are powered by direct-injection turbocharged engines using what Porsche calls the "Hot-V" configuration, referring to the unique placement of the turbochargers within the engine layout.

Porsche Cayenne 2018: Engine Options and Performance

• Standard Cayenne: 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 340 hp.
• Cayenne S: 2.9-liter V6 engine with 440 hp (the version I drove).
• Cayenne Turbo: 4.0-liter V8 engine delivering 550 hp.

Acceleration times are equally impressive:

• 0–100 km/h in 5.9 seconds for the standard Cayenne,
• 4.9 seconds for the Cayenne S,
• and just 3.9 seconds for the Cayenne Turbo.

Transmission Upgrades

Porsche replaced the previous PDK dual-clutch gearbox with a conventional automatic transmission for the 2018 Cayenne. When I asked about this change during the Q&A session, the answer was clear: Porsche wanted the Cayenne to be capable of towing up to 3.5 tons—a feat not possible with the PDK transmission.

Off-Road Adventure: Porsche Cayenne Surprises

Throughout our journey, the Cayenne lived up to expectations as a high-performance Porsche SUV, delivering precise steering and a responsive chassis that made me forget I was driving a vehicle of this size. What truly surprised me, however, was Porsche’s itinerary: 70% of our drive was off-road, taking us through mountains and rugged terrain where I never imagined I’d drive a Porsche. Thanks to the Cayenne’s four driving modes, my perception of the Cayenne changed completely.

The off-road adventure was long but incredibly enjoyable and well worth the time, culminating in a dinner overlooking breathtaking views of the Gulf from the clifftops.

Innovative Features and Driving Technology

On the return journey, I discovered even more features that enhance the driving experience and connection to the road. The new rear-axle steering system adds agility and stability depending on your speed, while the Cayenne now features a dynamic chassis control system instead of the previous hydraulic system. Additionally, the new air suspension uses three chambers instead of two, providing a wider dynamic range between different driving modes.

There are many technological upgrades to explore in the new Cayenne, and I look forward to a full test drive—hopefully with the Turbo variant—courtesy of Porsche Middle East.

Conclusion: The Spirit of a True Porsche SUV

In summary, after experiencing the new Porsche Cayenne, I can confidently say that the third generation has truly captured the spirit of a sports car. With its outstanding performance, solid handling, and refined luxury, the Cayenne delivers a driving experience that perfectly blends driving passion, sophisticated design, and exceptional comfort. Congratulations, Porsche!