One the few dedicated performance crossovers, the five-passenger Porsche Cayenne offers all-weather capability along with thrilling handling and potent acceleration on dry pavement. Yes, that even applies to the eco-conscious S Hybrid.
What's New for 2014
The S Hybrid version of the Cayenne is unchanged for 2014.
Choosing Your Porsche Cayenne Hybrid
The S Hybrid is powered by a supercharged 3-liter gas engine and a 34kW electric motor. Combined, they pump out 380 horsepower and 427 pound-feet of torque. It’s not surprising that the Cayenne is quick: zero to 60 mph comes in 6.1 seconds. What’s unexpected is its robust towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which puts it in contention with truck-based SUVs.
The hybrid setup is matched to an eight-speed automatic, and permanent all-wheel drive is standard. Expect about 21 mpg in combined driving.
Like other Cayenne models, the S Hybrid comes equipped with luxuries such as leather seating with driver memory, LED running lights, a power liftgate with a separately opening window, a 10-speaker sound system with a 7-inch touchscreen, and a sliding and reclining rear seat. The S Hybrid also gets an upgraded power steering unit that’s optional on other models.
You have of choice of no less than 11 wheel designs, three front-seat styles, and interior trim in wood, aluminum or carbon fiber.
Most popular options are grouped into packages:
- Bose Audio: Equips the S Hybrid with Bose surround sound, a CD/DVD changer and satellite radio.
- Convenience: Adds an audio/phone interface with navigation, heated front seats, bi-xenon headlamps, a driver memory package, a sunroof and auto-dimming mirrors.
- Premium: Includes the Convenience package, above, plus 14-way power seats, front and rear parking assist and a heated steering wheel .
- Premium Plus: Builds on the Premium package with an active air suspension, lane-change assist, power rear window shades, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and special interior lighting.
Choose your Porsche Cayenne Hybrid >>
The S Hybrid aims for a balance of performance and economy. It doesn’t lead the lineup in either, but strikes us as a very skillful compromise.