Overview

The Porsche Cayenne is a 5-seat, all-wheel-drive (AWD) midsize luxury SUV with sporty performance features. The 2011 model year is the first for a new generation of Cayennes, and includes a new hybrid version. The Cayenne is a little larger following its redesign, yet the base model is about 400 pounds lighter than the 2010 model, according to Porsche.

Four trim levels are available on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne: base, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Hybrid, and Cayenne Turbo. They correspond to the four different engines; all offer a full complement of luxury features as standard, with more added at each trim level. The top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo features 19-inch wheels, air suspension, luxurious sport seats, navigation system, and premium Bose surround-sound system. Options are extensive and cover comfort, appearance, and performance. They include adaptive cruise control, carbon-ceramic brakes, top-grade leather seats, and much more.

The base powertrain in the 2011 Porsche Cayenne is a 300-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces 295 lb.-ft. of torque, with standard 6-speed manual and optional 8-speed automatic transmission with an automatic stop/start feature; it delivers 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission, according to the EPA. The Cayenne S trims employ a 400-horsepower, 4.8-liter V-8 engine that produces 369 lb.-ft. of torque. The Cayenne Turbo features a turbocharged version of that engine that makes 500 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Cayenne S Hybrid is powered by a supercharged, 3.0-liter V-6 engine that teams with an electric motor to produce 380 horsepower and 427 lb.-ft. of torque. It delivers 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with its standard 8-speed automatic transmission.

Standard safety features on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne include anti-lock brakes with brake assist, stability control, front side air bags, driver knee air bags, and side curtain air bags. Optional safety features include rear side air bags, rearview camera, blind-spot warning system, and parking sensors.

The 2011 Porsche Cayenne starts at an MSRP of $47,700 and can rise to well over $100,000.