Intro: Porsche's Cayenne mid-size SUV unites sports car heritage with upscale amenities and capable all-wheel drive. For 2011 Porsche seeks to prove its green thumb credentials with the Cayenne S Hybrid.
You'd be hard pressed to find any "Hybrid" badging on this SUV as its visually identical to the Cayenne S, with 18-inch wheels wrapped in all season tires, gaping dual exhaust and a power open-close rear hatch.
Performance: The Cayenne S Hybrid is powered by a supercharged 3-liter V6 and an electric motor that combine to deliver a total of 380 horsepower. Power is sent through an 8-speed automatic transmission to full time all-wheel drive.
The Cayenne S Hybrid also includes regenerative braking, to capture energy when braking to be later used by the electric motor. The electric motor with its impressive 427 pound feet of torque allows for a great deal of off-the-line power, resulting in a zero-to-sixty time of just 6.1 seconds.
Fuel Economy: Fuel economy for the Cayenne S Hybrid is 20 miles per gallon city, and 24 miles per gallon highway.
Features: Inside, the Cayenne is treated to a leather and chrome laden interior. The center console is higher than the previous model so that controls rise to the driver's fingertips. Those controls can include the optional heated front bucket seats and individual switches for the dual zone climate control.
The instrument panel features a performance-minded center tachometer and a very useful digital screen to its right. The screen is customizable via the toggle on the multifunction steering wheel.
Two options we recommend are the vivid navigation system, and the Bose audio package. Together they bring high tech functionality and amazing sound to the Cayenne.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include an automatic brake differential, Porsche stability management, brake pad wear indicators, and a full array of front and side impact airbags. A recommended option for those who often parallel park is the front/rear park assist sensor system.
Pricing: Base MSRP for the 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid is $67,700 in its lone trim.
Warranty: The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid is backed by a 4-year, 50,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: With the capability of an SUV, the proven handling of a Porsche, and the benefit of a hybrid drivetrain, the 2011 Cayenne S Hybrid proves that when it comes to green motoring and high-riding SUV luxury, you CAN have your cake and eat it too. (2:42)