2012 Porsche Cayenne

The Porsche Cayenne received its first major redesign with this model, after surviving on facelifts for nearly a decade. While it looks more like a facelift again, the new-for-2011 model has been extensively revamped, effectively from a offroader to a crossover in the process. The entry-level Cayenne gets a 3.6-litre V6 engine, the Cayenne S gets a 4.8-litre V8 engine, whereas the Turbo gets a 4.8-litre V8 with twin-turbochargers. A hybrid model, the Cayenne S Hybrid, is fitted with a 3.0-litre supercharged engine and electric motor. There is also a Cayenne D model now with a 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6. The Cayenne GTS, a lowered sporty model powered by a higher-tuned 4.8-litre V8, came in mid-2012. All the models get a new 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission and an Automatic Start-Stop function. Only the base V6 can be had with a 6-speed manual. Porsche claims the Cayenne is a capable off-roader, but there isn't even a low-range gearing option any more. A feature called Porsche... Read More