2019 Porsche Cayenne Review
Though critics have knocked the fact that the sporty posh car maker has been dabbling in SUVs, they may close their lips after seeing the new 2011 Porsche Cayenne. One of the most noticeable changes is the drive. In earlier models, the critics were right, Porsche's SUVs were heavy and didn't have the smooth drive that Porsche owners covet. But they have learned a lot since their first trial in 2003, and have even gone leaps and bounds from last year's model. This year's model is lighter and more agile than ever. A 400 pound drop from previous models can contribute to the overall more Porsche-feel. How did they accomplish this incredible Biggest Loser like weight loss? They literally have shown their innovation by being able to cut pounds everywhere. First off, they have used an extensive amount of aluminum in the doors, hood and chassis. Then they went on to the engine, park break, and even the tires?
I had no idea that tires could be made lighter, but somehow they achieved it. The Cayenne's towing capacity is enough for all your kid's friends and their lacrosse equipment (it gets maxed out at about 6,000 pounds). The V-6 engine makes is just enough car for those beginning drivers, which makes the Cayenne a great SUV to pass down for a Sweet 16 gift-- when the time comes. But if you are more into saving the world by day and coming home to the family at night, you might want to try the 2011 Cayenne S Hybrid. Yes, that's right, it comes in Hybrid. For those out of the loop-this will be Porsche's third year making the Cayenne S Hybrid. Coming from an avid Cayenne consumer, the design for these eco savers has only gotten better from the 2009 debut. Now the design- and this goes for all the 2011 Cayenne models- is sleek and even sexy? I wasn't sure if an SUV could be considered sexy, but this transformation is something like The Swan (you know, that reality show that used plastic surgery to turn "ugly ducklings" into "The Swan"). One of the main advantages of going hybrid is the fuel economy which is about 22/25. The 2011 Cayenne S Hybrid can go from 0 to 60 in 6.1 seconds, which is pretty good. The great thing about this model is that it has a parallel hybrid system which means that there is no perception of the various drive modes (gas, gas and electric, and electric). What does this mean for the owner of this hybrid?
Do not use them on in clear conditions because they create a safety hazard to cars behind you. It's distracting and degrades other people's night vision. To use the rear foglights, pull the headlight switch out to the second notch. Front foglights are the first notch. The fuel gauge has a reminder arrow showing you which side the fuel filler is on. There's a small hole on the hinge to rest the cap. If you ever loan the car to someone DON'T have them fill it up for you because they may forget it's a diesel. Don't rely on the color of the fuel pump nozzle to see which is diesel because I've seen green and yellow diesel pump handles. If the car is ever misfueled, do not turn the car on or start the engine. Have the fuel tank drained. All retail diesel sold in the US, Canada, and Europe is ultra low sulfur diesel ULSD. If you travel to Mexico don't use low sulfur diesel because it will damage the emissions system.
You may find ULSD along the border. The fuel tank opening has a misfueling restrictor that prevents gas pump nozzles from being inserted. It comes with a pair of rubber gloves. Many thanks to user Dutch van Atlanta for the picture and the tip! I carry paper towels in the car when handling the diesel fuel pump. If there's diesel fuel on the handle it will make your hand smell. Diesel fuel is an oil so it doesn't evaporate as quickly as gasoline (solvent). I always use a paper towel when fueling gasoline too because I don't like the odors that are on their handles either. The normal power split F/R is 40/60 but it can change according to conditions up to a maximum of 65% front and 85% rear. The car uses an oil level sensor. There is no physical oil dipstick but you can add one if you remove the plug and buy one. There's already a tube to accept it. A physical dipstick lets you can check the color and level anytime.