The Porsche Cayenne, a premium midsize SUV, made its debut in the US as a 2003 model.
It has punchy engine options, sedan-like handling, great towing capacity, and a well-appointed interior.
In this piece, we’re going to explore the Cayenne’s most and least impressive model years.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Porsche Cayenne Are:
The best Porsche Cayenne model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018, 2017, 2015, 2010, and 2009. The worst model years of this model are 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2019. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Porsche Cayenne?
2024 Porsche Cayenne
The 2024 Cayenne is a top pick, embodying the essence of luxury in a midsize SUV. This model year introduces several key updates: an increase in standard equipment, a refreshed interior design, a new digital instrument panel, updated exterior styling, and a retuned suspension.
There are 2 available trims: Base and S. Starting price ranges from around $81,000 to $98,000.
The Base trim is equipped with a turbocharged 3-liter 6-cylinder engine (348 horsepower, 368 pound-feet of torque) while the S trim has a larger turbocharged 4-liter V8 engine (468 horsepower, 442 pound-feet of torque).
Notable safety features include the following:
- Night Vision Assist
- Pedestrian Protection
- InnoDrive
Fuel economy numbers are respectable. According to the EPA, owners can get as much as 19 MPG with the Base trim and 17 MPG with the S trim under combined city and highway driving conditions.
- Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2024 Porsche Cayenne, Edmunds Review:
“The 2024 Cayenne is beautiful. The upgrades make it more user friendly and easier to see what is on the side of you.”
2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020 Porsche Cayenne
Other than a few tweaks to the infotainment system, these model years are essentially the same SUV and you can’t go far wrong with any of them. They are part of the third generation introduced for 2019 which was completely redesigned and featured more powerful engines.
All possess sedan-like handling, a variety of engine options, and standout build quality for both the interior and exterior.
Unlike the 2024 model year, these versions come in multiple trim levels: Base, Platinum Edition, S, S Platinum Edition, GTS, and Turbo.
Owners talked positively about the following aspects of these models:
- Handling
- Steering
- Comfort
- Acceleration
- Value for money
- Ride quality
- Seats
- Driving experience
- Spaciousness
2023 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2022 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2021 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2020 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 3.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2020 Porsche Cayenne, Edmunds Review:
“Bought my Cayenne in August of 2020. I have about 5000 miles on it now and it has been wonderful. No issues at all, and the build quality really is fantastic. It handles like a dream and even with the base engine it feels extremely quick. The transmission is amazingly fast and responsive. I only wish I could go as fast as I want most of the time…”
2018 and 2017 Porsche Cayenne
The 2018 and 2017 have impressive handling, a wide selection of powerful engines available, and premium interior and build quality. They are part of the second generation introduced for 2011.
New for these models is an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system program (PCM 4.0).
Excluding the hybrid variants, the lineup offers five distinct trim levels: Base, S, GTS, Turbo, and Turbo S.
A wide selection of powertrains is offered, ranging from a basic V6 to a hybrid version, and extending to a powerful V8. The pricing varies significantly; at their initial release, the starting price was around the $60,000 mark, climbing to nearly three times that amount for the flagship Cayenne Turbo S.
According to the EPA’s estimates, owners can expect anywhere between 17 MPG and 20 MPG (under combined city and highway driving conditions) for these models, depending on trim.
2018 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2017 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2017 Porsche Cayenne, Edmunds Review:
“15 June 2022 Still loving it. Would buy it again, but the new ones are not made in Germany and have not been crash tested. The 2017 has been and achieved a tops score on the European testing site…”
2015 Porsche Cayenne
The 2015 Cayenne stands as a reliable option for those seeking a proven luxury SUV, garnering high praise from both owners and automotive critics.
It is also a thrill to drive thanks to its responsive handling, fast turbocharged engines, and stylish exterior and interior.
Changes for this model year include the following:
- The S trim now has a turbocharged V6 (instead of the original V8) engine
- Despite the downsized engine, the V6 offers 20 more horsepower than its predecessor
- Improved suspension
- Optional air suspension system
- Optional surround-view parking camera
- Optional ventilated rear seats
- Revised exterior styling
- Improved fuel economy
There is also a diesel variant offered, known as the Cayenne Diesel. This variant is powered by a turbocharged 3-liter V6 engine (240 horsepower, 406 pound-feet of torque) and has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2015 Porsche Cayenne, Edmunds Review:
“Have had many luxury SUVs (LR,BMW & MB); hands down the Porsche Cayenne Diesel is the best of the bunch. Still as solid as a rock! No issues. Gets 35 MPG on a Trip! Fit & Finish is great! After 5 years won’t even consider selling it.”
2010 and 2009 Porsche Cayenne
Despite being the oldest on this list, the 2010 and 2009 Cayenne are still excellent choices that shouldn’t be overlooked.
These SUVs offer outstanding handling, authoritative acceleration, and a variety of customization options.
These editions represent the last of the first-generation models, preceding the significant overhaul that started with the (troublesome) 2011 model year.
Based on reviews we have found online, these are the positives of the pair:
- Handling
- Steering
- Appearance
- Interior
- Value for money
- Engine power
- Comfort
- Ride quality
- Acceleration
2010 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2009 Porsche Cayenne:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2010 Porsche Cayenne, Edmunds Review:
“These cars may represent one of the best values on the used market. Advanced technology in engine electronics, pneumatic suspension and one of the loveliest leather interiors ever made. Having chain cam belts eliminates expensive maintenance for cam belts, proven and durable V8 and adjustable suspension for ride height and comfort…”
Consumer Scores For Best Porsche Cayenne Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Porsche Cayenne | 3.7 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2023 Porsche Cayenne | 3.7 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2022 Porsche Cayenne | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2021 Porsche Cayenne | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2020 Porsche Cayenne | 3.4 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2018 Porsche Cayenne | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2017 Porsche Cayenne | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2015 Porsche Cayenne | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2010 Porsche Cayenne | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2009 Porsche Cayenne | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
Related: Porsche Cayenne in Snow & Winter Driving? (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Porsche Cayenne?
2004, 2005, 2006, and 2008 Porsche Cayenne
The Cayenne series had a rocky beginning, with the 2004 to 2008 models—among the very first produced—experiencing significant issues, and the 2004 Cayenne standing out as the most troubled model year ever manufactured.
Major issues revolved around 3 areas: engine, transmission, and fuel system.
A common complaint owners reported is sudden unintended acceleration.
“Cayenne S accelerated uncontrollably while driving. While driving at approx 60 mph, I encountered traffic ahead and took my foot off the accelerator, however the car began accelerating. I tried lifting the pedal with my foot, no luck, applied the brakes and the car slowed, however, when I removed my foot from the brake, the Cayenne continued to accelerate…” – CarProblemZoo.com
Transmission issues were widespread. Reports online indicated lurching, jerking, thudding, and even intermittent loss of power when accelerating.
“The contact stated he parked the vehicle in his driveway without the emergency brake engaged and left to enter his residence. The contact stated within 2 – 3 minutes later, when exiting his residence, the vehicle inadvertently shifted gears to reverse and rolled away from his residence…” – CarProblemZoo.com
Numerous owners complained about a strong gasoline odor inside the car. Based on testing, this has been caused by a cracked fuel filter and a flange leak.
This is not only a general safety risk but is also a direct fire hazard – a recall was initiated.
“The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for an unrelated repair. The technician smelled an odor of fuel outside of the vehicle and detected that a substantial amount of fuel leaked onto the ground continuously…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2004 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 11 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 146 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2005 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 2 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 52 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2006 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 7 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 63 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 4 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 55 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Plastic coolant lines broke
- Defective driveshaft
- Vehicle will not start
- Engine cylinder misfire
- Complete brake failure
- Overheating
- Cooling system pipe issues
- Airbag failure
- Water leakage
- Grinding, squealing, and vibration during acceleration
- Broken camshaft
- Fuel pump jammed
2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 Porsche Cayenne
The 2011 to 2014 Cayenne models had numerous engine and transmission problems.
Some owners had to deal with various camshaft issues. The bolts holding the camshaft together were reported to break frequently.
The camshaft is important in the internal combustion cycle and is responsible for opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves while fuel is being processed and converted into power for the car to move.
If bolts are loose, the timing of the opening and closing of flaps may not be in sync with the rest of the process, leading to inefficiency, premature wear and tear, and engine misfiring.
“Faulty camshaft bolts in early v8’s of this generation (2011 models) resulting in loss of engine power, and sometimes brakes. Vehicle broke down in the middle of a busy road, luckily was not at highway speed or it could have been very dangerous.” – CarProblemZoo.com
Another widespread concern was with the transfer case, a component that is typically found in four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models.
It is in charge of delivering power to the front wheels and the back wheels for better traction and control on-road and off-road.
Owners experienced unusual noises, excessive vibration, difficulty shifting gears, and even fluid leakage, all of which are indicative of a malfunctioning transfer case (and transmission system as a whole).
“Vehicle has only 60k miles on it, when trying to accelerate on a 3 gear starts making noises and does a lot of jerking, according to the dealership it’s a transfer case issue and a repair will cost $5000, that seems to be a common issue with these cars, maybe it’s time for Porsche to accept that responsibilities and fix it or shall we wait for this problem to become a fatal for somebody?” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2011 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 13 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 66 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2012 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 36 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2013 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 38 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2014 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 5 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 56 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Engine died
- Premature brake wear
- Overheating
- Transfer case issues
- Drivetrain wore out prematurely
- Clunking noise
- Coolant leakage
- Windshield glare and reflection
- Cooling pipe exploded
- Engine fire
- Excessive vibration at low RPM
2016 Porsche Cayenne
The 2016 model experienced transmission problems akin to those of earlier discussed models, but it also faced unique challenges, particularly with its array of electronic equipment.
Among the issues reported, these were the most common areas of concern:
- Blower malfunction
- Auto engine off issues
- Headlight and tail light defects
- Inaccurate digital speedometer
- Excessive vibration
“Both headlights water condensation after heavy rain, car wash. Driver side door wind noise rattles sound from dashboard when accelerating.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2016 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 35 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- PCM not working
- Rattling from dashboard
- Inaccurate speedometer
- Equipment issues
2019 Porsche Cayenne
The 2019 Cayenne encountered several electrical problems, with battery issues being the most persistent and significant concern.
Based on online feedback from owners, there have been instances of software and hardware malfunctions that negatively affected battery performance and caused false battery-related warning indicators to flash.
Consequently, this has necessitated battery replacements much sooner than their anticipated lifespan.
“In September 2022 the yellow battery warning light appeared on my dash while my car was still under warranty. Porsche had an open campaign wmj9 that involved a software update that resolved the issue. Last month, June, while my car was now out of warranty the same yellow warning light appeared but this time the dealership recommended I replace the battery at a cost of $3,200 Porsche refuses to accept that these 2 instances are related and that the battery should be covered since the software update during my first service visit didn’t offer a long term solution…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2000 Porsche Cayenne had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 31 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Abnormal brake sounds
- Suspension system issues
Related: 11 Hybrid SUVs with the Best Technology (with Pictures)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Porsche Cayenne | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| 2023 Porsche Cayenne | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 Porsche Cayenne | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 2021 Porsche Cayenne | 0 | 13 | 4 |
| 2020 Porsche Cayenne | 2 | 16 | 3 |
| 2019 Porsche Cayenne | 3 | 31 | 5 |
| 2018 Porsche Cayenne | 1 | 12 | 1 |
| 2017 Porsche Cayenne | 0 | 10 | 2 |
| 2016 Porsche Cayenne | 6 | 35 | 2 |
| 2015 Porsche Cayenne | 1 | 12 | 2 |
| 2014 Porsche Cayenne | 5 | 56 | 3 |
| 2013 Porsche Cayenne | 6 | 38 | 3 |
| 2012 Porsche Cayenne | 6 | 36 | 4 |
| 2011 Porsche Cayenne | 13 | 66 | 3 |
| 2010 Porsche Cayenne | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| 2009 Porsche Cayenne | 4 | 18 | 2 |
| 2008 Porsche Cayenne | 4 | 55 | 3 |
| 2006 Porsche Cayenne | 7 | 63 | 3 |
| 2005 Porsche Cayenne | 2 | 52 | 4 |
| 2004 Porsche Cayenne | 11 | 146 | 6 |
| 2003 Porsche Cayenne | 0 | 8 | 2 |
What Problems Do Porsche Cayenne Have?
- Plastic coolant lines broke
- Engine died
- PCM not working
- Defective driveshaft
- Vehicle will not start
- Overheating
- Coolant system pipe problems
- Airbag failure
- Water leakage
- Premature brake wear
- Rattling from dashboard
- Inaccurate speedometer
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Porsche Cayenne?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Porsche Cayenne | 8.5 | $79,200 – $197,950 | City: 15 – 17 /Highway: 21 – 23 |
| Lincoln Nautilus | 8.5 | $44,825 – $67,245 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| BMW X5 | 8.4 | $61,600 – $85,400 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Genesis GV80 | 8.4 | $57,700 – $81,750 | City: 18 – 20 /Highway: 23 – 24 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class | 8.4 | $57,700 – $83,850 | City: 16 – 20 /Highway: 21 – 25 |
| Lincoln Aviator | 8.3 | $53,340 – $80,725 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 24 – 26 |
| Audi Q7 | 8.2 | $59,500 – $75,100 | City: 19 /Highway: 24 – 25 |
| Volvo XC90 | 8.1 | $56,600 – $70,500 | City: 20 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 27 |
| Land Rover Range Rover Sport | 8.0 | $83,000 – $121,500 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Audi Q8 | 8.0 | $73,700 – $81,800 | City: 17 /Highway: 23 |
| Acura MDX | 8.0 | $50,150 – $73,800 | City: 17 – 19 /Highway: 21 – 26 |
| Infiniti QX60 | 7.8 | $49,650 – $66,100 | City: 20 – 21 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 10 Most Fun to Drive Hybrid SUVs (With Pictures)
References
- https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/porsche/cayenne
- https://www.edmunds.com/porsche/cayenne/
- https://www.kbb.com/porsche/cayenne/
- https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2024/porsche/cayenne
- https://www.carcomplaints.com/Porsche/Cayenne/
- https://www.carproblemzoo.com/porsche/cayenne/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
