2019 Porsche Cayenne review
Porsche Cayenne highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- All-new, with even better sporting dynamics
- Porsche's latest infotainment and instrumentation hugely improved
Cons
- New design did not address lack of interior space
- Porsche's many costly options
Mileage (EPA estimate)
15 city, 19 highway, 17 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
All-new for 2019, the Porsche Cayenne sets the bar even higher for rivals
All-new for 2019, the Porsche Cayenne has upped the power, added some equipment, and reduced overall weight while retaining the luxury and class-leading driving dynamics that have long been a hallmark. The offering remains familiar, with base, S, E-Hybrid, and Turbo models, a lineup that is certain to fill out in the coming years. New for this third generation is the availability of the Cayenne Coupe. It loses some outright trunk space for a sleeker look and rivals similar upscale SUV coupes from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, among others. The base Cayenne model is fitted with a 335 hp 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, 19-inch alloy wheels, all-wheel drive and eight-speed automatic transmission, and a new 12.4-inch touchscreen inside.
The Cayenne S comes with a 434 hp 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 and Porsche’s PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) adaptive suspension. The plug-in choice is the E-Hybrid, mating a 3.0-liter V6 to an electric motor for a combined 455 hp. The Turbo is the top dog, with a twin-turbo V8 engine developing 541 hp, and suspension, brake, and equipment upgrades commensurate with its elevated performance and higher price point. They’re all impressive, as you might anticipate, and the all-new Cayenne convincingly takes over where the old one left off.
All Porsche Cayenne years
What is new for the 2019 Porsche Cayenne?
- The GTS, Platinum, and Turbo S trims have been discontinued for 2019.
- Cayenne trims have been upgraded with Panoramic Sunroof, Seat Massagers, Rear View Camera, and Rear Spoiler as standard equipment this year.
- Head Up Display features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Turbo trim now comes with 20 Inch Plus Wheels as standard equipment.
- The Base trim now comes with Parking Sensors, 20 Inch Plus Wheels, and Turbo Charged Engine as standard equipment.
- The S trim now comes with 20 Inch Plus Wheels as standard equipment.
2019 Porsche Cayenne trims
Base
Includes 19-inch alloy wheels, eight-way power seats, LED interior lighting, center console with touchscreen, partial leather interior, and more.
S
Adds Power steering Plus, Porsche Active Suspension Management, 19-inch Cayenne S wheels, and more.
E-Hybrid
Adds a 134-hp electric motor, Sport Chrono Package, e-hybrid logos on fender and tailgate, brake calipers with an acid green finish, charging equipment, and more.
Turbo
Adds 21-inch dark titanium wheels wheel center caps with Porsche crest, exterior metallic paint color options leather interior, 18-way Adaptive Sports Seats, Bose® Surround Sound System, heated steering wheel, auto-dimming mirrors, and more.
Porsche Cayenne photos
5 reasons to buy the 2019 Porsche Cayenne
1. Friends and family
Got people? The luxurious four-door, five-seater 2019 Porsche Cayenne can transport them comfortably. The optional panoramic moonroof and 12.3-inch touchscreen system are impressive when road tripping with friends. When it comes to family time, kids in the backseats enjoy elevated side bolsters to get cozy. The rear seats also split 40/20/40 and when folded down expand the rear cargo area from 26.3 cu-ft to 60.4 cu-ft on the base trim to easily accommodate a dog kennel or holiday shopping hauls.
2. Popular tech options
As you might guess, the Porsche Cayenne comes loaded with ample technology in the cabin. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system oversees the audio, navigation, and communications features, perfect for business drivers and those who like to take to the back roads but need a little guidance. There are also five USB ports, an option to upgrade to a Burmester® 3D High-End Surround Sound System, Apple CarPlay® connectivity, Bluetooth® integration, and an optional CD/DVD autochanger controlled by push-button or voice control for hands-free operation. This ride really is a tech-lover's dream.
3. Sports car features
You might just forget you're behind the wheel of an SUV in the 2019 Porsche Cayenne. The base trim features a robust 3.0L V6 with a twin-scroll turbocharger, cranking out 335 hp making daily runs to the school drop-off lane a breeze. Jump to the Cayenne Turbo trim and your inner racecar driver will smile at the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that does zero to 60 in just 3.7 seconds, according to Porsche when new. This might just be the perfect ride if you want to have some fun on your commute or want to get the neighbors talking.
4. Luxe cabin features
You really shouldn't expect any less from Porsche when it comes to interior styling. The company's theme seems to be "comfort" with standard 14-way adjustable front seats that have a memory for perfect positioning time after time, a programmable massage function, and air-cushioned backrests. Activate the optional four-zone climate control feature and ionizer to improve air quality and you might just never leave this SUV. The 2019 Porsche Cayenne is the perfect road-tripping, business-traveling, daily-driving vehicle for those who spend hours in the car each day.
5. Driver-Assist systems
Is a teen driver in your household? Or maybe you just want to make driving even easier, the extras on the Porsche Cayenne are worth exploring. The daytime running lights, swiveling headlights to illuminate curvy roads, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, brake warnings, night vision assist, active lane keep, and intersection assist are pretty swoon-worthy for anyone new to driving or who feels a bit timid behind the wheel.
2019 Porsche Cayenne video review
In this video, Travis Langness from Edmunds reviews the 2019 Porsche Cayenne and talks about what makes this luxury SUV special, what he likes and dislikes about it, and whether a used Cayenne would be the right SUV for you and your family. This is our review of the 2019 Porsche Cayenne.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2019 Porsche Cayenne, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The Audi Q7 brings street cred with its cutting-edge exterior, finely tuned handling, and lovely interior. The second-generation Q7 (2017-present) features Audi's distinctive grille and headlights, a sport-tuned suspension, and a flexible interior for all your cargo needs.
The three-row, seven-passenger Q7 comes with Audi's Quattro AWD system as standard, paired with one of two engine options: a turbo 2.0L four-cylinder with 252 hp or the optional supercharged 3.0L V6 with 333 hp (2017-present models). The 3.0L V6 delivers an estimated 7,700-lb. towing capacity, when properly equipped.2 The Q7 is fun to drive, and the beautiful interior materials will have your passengers enjoying the ride, too.
The 2017 Audi Q7 Prestige impresses with:
19-speaker Bose® 3D sound system
Four-zone climate control
Head-up display and virtual cockpit
Power soft-closing doors
The X5 has the perfect mix of luxury, sportiness, and tech features and even an optional third row. A 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine putting out 300 horsepower is standard from 2017 (335 horsepower for 2019+). Meanwhile, 2017 and newer models come with standard AWD. The X5 is a great luxury SUV and there's plenty to love about it.
Standard features on the 2017–2021 BMW X5 include:
Panoramic sunroof
10.2-inch central display screen (two 12.3-inch screens for 2019+)
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity (2021)
Heated power-folding side mirrors
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury SUV that delivers a smooth ride and premium materials in a spacious vehicle. The 2017-2019 GLE is powered by a standard 302-hp V6 (329-hp for 2019) and features optional all-wheel drive. Two twin-turbo V6 engine options are available, with one featuring additional power via an electric motor. AMG performance trims are also available for 2017-2019, with twin turbocharged V6 and V8 engine options.
In 2020, Mercedes updated the GLE for its fourth generation with a new 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine making 255 horsepower. A 3.0L turbo V6 and a 4.0L turbo V8 also entered the revised lineup, both with a mild hybrid system and 362 hp and 483 hp, respectively.
Standard features on 2017-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class models include:
Premium vinyl upholstery
LED daytime running lights and taillights
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Eight-inch display (12.3-inch touchscreen for 2020+)
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Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Porsche Cayenne an overall reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Porsche Cayenne 25th out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Porsche CayennePorsche Cayenne features and specs
S 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- 4WD/AWD
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Apple CarPlay
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Leather Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- A/C Seat(s)
- Adjustable Suspension
- Automated Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitor
- BOSE Sound System
- Burmester Audio
- CD Audio
- Front Seat Heaters
- Full Roof Rack
- Head Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Memory Seat(s)
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Power Seat(s)
- Rear A/C Seat(s)
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Entertainment System
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Seat Massagers
- Smart Key
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)
Engine size
2.9L
Horsepower
434
Torque (ft-lbs)
405
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
23.7
Wheelbase
113.9"
Overall length
193.6"
Width
78"
Height
66.7"
Front tires
P255/55VR19
Rear tires
P275/50VR19
Seating capacity
5
Max towing capacity
770/7700 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2019 Porsche Cayenne FAQ
Yes, it's a good midsize luxury SUV for families, couples, or singles who need cargo space. The 2019 Porsche Cayenne offers luxury cabin features, powerful engine options, and seating for up to five passengers.
The models are similar with a few changes. Notably, the 2019 Porsche Cayenne offers more cargo space (approximately 60 cu-ft) while the 2020 model has approximately 54 cu-ft of storage area.
Yes, the 2019 Porsche Cayenne has a graphic heads-up display showing relevant driving information viewable from the driver's position. The brightness, angle, and height of this feature are adjustable.
More about the 2019 Porsche Cayenne
Exterior colors:
Biscay Blue Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Black
Carrara White Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Jet Black Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Mahogany Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Moonlight Blue Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Palladium Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Purpurite Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Quartzite Grey Metallic (Turbo trim only)
Rhodium Silver Metallic (Turbo trim only)
White
Interior colors:
Black
Black and Mojave Beige
Black and Bordeaux Red
Graphite Blue and Chalk
Slate Grey
Slate Grey and Mojave Beige
Truffle Brown
Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown
Interior details
The 2019 Porsche Cayenne offers seating for five in a posh cabin featuring your choice of wood, metal, carbon fiber, or leather trim paired with full or partial leather upholstery. Look out for the optional decorative stitching, which can really personalize the interior. Upgrade the interior to include a massaging feature on the front seats and heated rear seats by opting for the Turbo trim.
Child seat details
The 2019 Porsche Cayenne can accommodate five passengers. In the back row, you'll find two sets of LATCH car-seat connectors for child car seats positioned in the rear outboard seats. In the rear middle seat, an upper tether is available. Do a practice fit when scheduling a test drive to ensure your current child-safety seats will work with the 2019 Porsche Cayenne.
Note: Porsche makes child seats designed, tested, and approved for Porsche cars for children up to 12 years old. The child seats secure to the Porsche Cayenne rear seats using a preparation kit or a three-point belt system.
Performance
The 2019 Porsche Cayenne is a beast under the hood for an SUV. The standard Base trim comes equipped with a 3.0L V6 that pumps out an impressive 335 hp, making accelerating up highway merge lanes a breeze. If it's power you crave, the top-line Turbo trim offers a robust twin-turbo V8 that nails zero to 60 in a lightning-fast 3.7 seconds making lane changes effortless.
Emissions
According to EPA estimates, the base trim 3.0L V6 2019 Porsche Cayenne's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 427 grams per mile.
According to EPA estimates, the S trim 2.9L V6 2019 Porsche Cayenne's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 442 grams per mile.
According to EPA estimates, the Turbo trim 4.0L V8 2019 Porsche Cayenne's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 529 grams per mile.
According to EPA estimates, the E-Hybrid 3.0L V6 2019 Porsche Cayenne's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 284 grams per mile.
Year Comparisons
2011–2018 Porsche Cayenne (Second Generation)
Porsche launched its first SUV, the Cayenne, in 2003. In 2011, the inaugural style got a facelift and a Cayenne S Hybrid featuring an electric motor was added to the lineup. The Base trim V6 model topped out at 300 hp and the top-line Turbo trim hit 500 hp. In 2015, the S trim dropped its V8 for a turbocharged V6. In 2017, a flashy platinum package featuring Power Steering Plus, parking assist features, and an updated navigation system was offered for V6 and E-Hybrid models.
2019–Present Porsche Cayenne (Third Generation)
The 2019 Porsche Cayenne leads the pack in the current generation of this make. The exterior styling stays about the same as the second generation, so it's best to look under the hood for upgrades. The 2019 and newer models boosted the Base trim up to a 335-hp 3.0L turbocharged V6. Look to the 2020 models and you'll find a sleek four-door Cayenne Coupe option. In 2021, a new Turbo S E-Hybrid combos the top-end Turbo trim with the electric motor to produce a 670-hp plug-in SUV.
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