Overview
With its fastback roofline, the 2022 Porsche Cayenne coupe is a more stylish version of the regular Cayenne SUV. The compromises to its cargo space in no way hinder the Cayenne coupe from successfully translating Porsche’s storied sports-car attributes to an SUV format. Not only is the mid-size, two-row ute surprisingly entertaining and pleasing to drive, the more powerful versions are blindingly quick. The lineup includes a diverse selection of powertrains: along with two potent plug-in-hybrid options that develop up to 671 horsepower, the Cayenne’s engines range from a strong turbocharged V-6 to a mighty twin-turbo V-6 to a rowdy twin-turbo V-8. While performance is a priority–per Porsche tradition–the German automaker is also known for its build quality, refinement, and roster of wallet-draining, upscale options. The 2022 Cayenne coupe might not appeal to traditionalists, but it’s perfect for Porschephiles who want a sexy SUV.
What’s New for 2022?
For 2022, Porsche introduces the new Cayenne Turbo GT model, which includes maximum levels of performance and is only offered in the coupe body style. The Turbo GT rockets to the top of the Cayenne hierarchy with an enhanced version of the twin-turbo V-8 and myriad chassis enhancements. With 631 horsepower and 626 pound-feet of torque, Porsche claims the Turbo GT will go from zero to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in 11.6 seconds. Along with some unique exterior bits, including a trim-specific front fascia and 22-inch rims, the sportiest Cayenne has a center-exit exhaust and a carbon fiber-covered rear diffuser. The 2022 Cayenne coupe also adopts Porsche’s latest infotainment software, which brings new features that now include Android Auto.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Sports cars are more stylish and less practical than normal cars, so we’d prioritize performance on Porsche’s largest “coupe” and choose the Cayenne S model. With a 434-hp twin-turbo V-6 and standard all-wheel drive, it’s more than capable of accelerating with ease and tackling all four seasons. Along with the Adaptive Sport front seats with 14-way power adjustments, we’d choose a handful of individual options that increase our coupe’s luxury quotient. These include ambient interior lighting, heated front-seat cushions, a heated steering wheel, massaging front seats, and four-zone climate control.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Porsche offers the Cayenne coupe with a range of diverse powertrains. The conventional gasoline engines include a 340-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, a 434-hp twin-turbo 2.9-liter V-6, and a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 that makes 453 ponies on the GTS model and 541 in the Turbo. The other two powerplants are from the square-back Cayenne E-Hybrid: one develops 455 horses and the other churns out 670. The new Turbo GT isn’t as powerful as the Turbo E-Hybrid, but it’s more focused on performance with its 631-hp twin-turbo V-8, massive brakes, uniquely tuned suspension, and various lightweight components. The GTS rides on standard 21-inch rims and a lower suspension than the three models below it in the lineup. The Turbo GT features the lowest ride height and standard 22-inch wheels on the stickiest tires. Like the square-back Cayenne, the coupe’s handling is precise and agile, and the ride it delivers is composed. When we first sampled the Cayenne coupe, we compared its handling with that of a sports sedan. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate its eager and athletic nature.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Cayenne coupe with the base turbocharged V-6 is expected to earn 19 mpg city and 23 highway. Upgrading to the twin-turbo V-6 drops both ratings by 1 mpg, and the high-powered twin-turbo V-8 models are rated at 15 mpg city and up to 20 highway. Going with one of the plug-in hybrids should provide better fuel economy in the city. The Cayenne S coupe we evaluated on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, earned 25 mpg. For more information about the Cayenne coupe’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Despite the sloping roofline, the Cayenne coupe’s rear-seat headroom is almost the same as the square-back Cayenne’s. The only downside to ordering the coupe is that the cargo area is slightly smaller, but still a very usable 22 cubic feet. All coupe models come standard with a panoramic fixed-glass sunroof as well as eight-way power-adjustable front seats and rear bucket seats. The seats can even be outfitted in a classic Porsche houndstooth-pattern cloth. A power rear liftgate and dual-zone automatic climate control are nice features, but the best of what the Cayenne coupe has to offer is found among its many optional features and packages, which can elevate the price quickly. Porsche also offers the opportunity to create—for a hefty sum, of course—a bespoke Cayenne coupe through its Exclusive Manufaktur program.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Cayenne’s 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and annoyingly complicated touch-sensitive climate-control system have carried over to the coupe model. An onboard Wi-Fi hotspot is standard as are Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. The Cayenne coupe’s standard 10-speaker stereo can be replaced by either a 14-speaker Bose setup or a 21-speaker Burmester 3D High-End system with beautiful galvanized metal speaker grilles.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Cayenne coupe is available with myriad driver-assistance features, but most of these cost extra. For more information about the Cayenne coupe’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Cayenne coupe matches most of its rivals’ warranty package, but its limited complimentary maintenance program is outdone by both the BMW X6 and the Volvo XC90, both of which offer three years of maintenance included in the purchase price.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for one year or 10,000 miles
