If you’re looking for an SUV that offers plenty of cargo space, the ability to tow more than 7,000 pounds and that has luxury and fun to drive appeal, the 2012 Porsche Cayenne is your answer.
Key Features
All three models include a traction system and all-wheel drive, power liftgate, and a start-stop feature that causes the engine to stop when idling to save fuel. Available upgrades include ceramic-composite brakes that lengthen rotor lifespan and improve braking distance, and Torque Vectoring Plus, which improves the amount of power to the rear wheel when cornering to improve steering.
Changes for 2012
The changes for the 2012 Porsche Cayenne include carpet upgrades on the seat backs and cargo area for all models. The Turbo model features larger disc brakes in the front, and has an available power kit that boosts the horsepower to 540.
What We Like
While this is in the SUV class, the Cayenne manages to handle more like a sports car thanks to Porsche design. Add in that this model year delivers improved comfort and a quieter ride and you have an SUV that is so much more than others available are.
What Concerns Us
While classed as an SUV, the 2012 Porsche Cayenne only seats five people. If you need more seating for passengers, you may need to consider other luxury SUVs that include third row seating.
Available Models
There are three models available of the 2012 Porsche Cayenne: the S, S Hybrid and the Turbo. The base model features a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 300 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque and 16/23 mpg city/highway for the automatic and 15/22 mpg for the manual.
The S model includes a 4.8-liter V8 that offers 400 horsepower and 369 ft-lb of torque, while providing 16/22 mpg city/highway fuel economy.
The S Hybrid boasts a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with two electric motors that offers 380 horsepower, 427 ft-lb of torque and 20/24 mpg city/highway.
The Turbo model includes a supercharged 4.8-liter V8 that provides 500 horsepower, 516 ft-lb of torque and 16/22 mpg city/highway fuel economy.
Major Recalls
There are two major recalls issued for the 2012 Porsche Cayenne. The first is for the turbine wheel that has a casting defect. This defect could cause a fracture that could result in decreased performance and a turbine shaft fracture.
The second recall is for the headlamp modules, which could become detached from the fender. This could cause visibility issues that increases crash risk.
Common Issues
The most commonly reported issue with this vehicle is due to the comfort entry feature, which saves user settings for seats and mirrors, failing to save the settings.
