‘Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid is more than just a luxury SUV
It's a little known fact that back in 1901, Porsche buldt the world's first petrol-electric hybrid vehicle. They've had plenty of time then, ahead of rivals, to perfect this, the chariot of fire that is the Cayenne E-Hybrid. When you think of Porsche, images of sleek sports cars tearing up the motorway or cruising down sun-kissed highways likely spring to mind.
But for all its performance pedigree, Porsche also has another side -- one that is far more grounded and refined, and it's this that shines most brightly in the form of the Cayenne. I was lucky enough to knock around in this hybrid for a few days and take it on a break to the countryside. What I discovered was a vehicle that delivers not only a thrilling driving experience but also a remarkable sense of serenity and efficiency -- the perfect balance for a weekend getaway.
Whenever friends ask me about cars, I always say Porche has the best interiors. And stepping into the Cayenne E-Hybrid, you immediately feel the Porsche aura.
You cannot beat the Porsche interior
The interior is a masterclass in luxury. Soft leather upholstery, a beautifully crafted dashboard, and a high-tech infotainment system greet you.
It's the kind of interior that makes you want to take a deep breath and just enjoy the moment. However, there's a twist -- this isn't just another high-end SUV. The E-Hybrid offers a taste of the future with its combination of petrol and electric power.
With sustainability becoming an increasingly important factor for today's drivers, this hybrid version of the Cayenne allows you to dip your toe into the eco-friendly world[1] without sacrificing the driving experience Porsche is famous for. Once you hit the road, the Cayenne E-Hybrid proves it's far more than just a pretty face. The 3.0-litre V6 engine combined with an electric motor churns out a total of 462 horsepower.
That's more than enough to deliver a thrilling performance on even the most winding of country lanes. The combination of the petrol engine and electric motor creates an incredibly smooth and responsive drive, with power delivery that feels both immediate and effortless.
The Porsche Cayenne is more than just a luxury SUV
Whether you're accelerating down the straight stretches of road or powering through tight corners, the Cayenne E-Hybrid handles with the precision and agility you'd expect from a Porsche. The hybrid powertrain isn't just about eco-conscious driving; it's about blending performance with practicality.
Thanks to the electric motor, it also delivers an almost eerie silence at low speeds, making it perfect for those early morning countryside drives where peace and quiet are paramount. One of the highlights during my time on the road was the adaptive air suspension, which helps the Cayenne glide over bumps and dips with an astonishing level of comfort. Even on some of the more uneven sections of the rural roads, the Cayenne E-Hybrid remained composed, absorbing imperfections without ever feeling jarring or unsettling.
This makes it an ideal vehicle for a long drive through the countryside, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature without being jostled in your seat. What truly sets the Cayenne E-Hybrid apart, though, is its ability to deliver both performance and efficiency. On the country roads, I found myself toggling between electric-only and hybrid driving modes.
At lower speeds, the electric motor took over completely, allowing me to glide through villages and past farms without so much as a whisper of engine noise. For some it will be a welcome change from the usual noise and fumes that come with more traditional petrol SUVs.
It's nifty too - despite being a hybrid
Starting from a cool GBP84,800 plus extras, this does a nifty 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds and unlike most Porsches, sits five instead of two more than comfortably in its luxury interior. Porsche claims a range of up to 27 miles on electric power alone, which is perfect for short, quiet drives or when you want to do your bit for the environment.
Even in hybrid mode, the car remains impressively efficient. For the longer stretches of the countryside, where more power was needed, the petrol engine kicked in seamlessly without any jarring transitions. Whether you're cruising at 30 mph or pushing the car up to 70 mph on the motorway, the Cayenne E-Hybrid never compromises on performance.
After a day on the road, it became clear that the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid is more than just a luxurious SUV. It's a testament to how performance and sustainability can coexist, delivering both thrilling driving dynamics and remarkable efficiency. In the quiet of the countryside, it's a car that feels at home, offering comfort, power, and luxury in spades, all while keeping its carbon footprint in check.
The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid is a perfect companion for those who want a taste of luxury and performance, with the added bonus of knowing that they're driving a vehicle that's not just powerful but also more sustainable. Whether you're heading to the countryside for a weekend escape or simply looking for a ride that blends sophistication with responsibility, the Cayenne E-Hybrid offers the perfect solution. For a green driving experience without compromising on that Porsche thrill, the Cayenne E-Hybrid is the SUV that manages to tick all the right boxes.
It's no longer just about getting there -- it's about getting there in style, power, and, now, in an eco-friendly way. A true testament to Porsche's commitment to a greener future without sacrificing luxury or performance. The only downside is that you will come across Porsche 'purists' who will bore you 'it can't be a real Porsche if it's electric'.
Did I care that the engine was in the front rather than the back?
I can't say I did much when I was behind the wheel...