Love At First Sight…
The new Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe has looks, style and performance. It is a heady mix of driving dynamics and sustainability, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Andy Tighe
There is certainly no harm looking for it – indeed, striving for it should be actively encouraged. We’re talking about perfection.
But does it exist and, even if it does, the fundamental question remains – is it achievable?
Invariably ‘perfect situations’ often carry some flaws or faults, however minor.
Take cars as an example. Is the perfect motor really out there?
Well, if you’re going to find it anywhere a Porsche centre is the perfect place to start – and finish.
Right now, there is a new model on show for which there are as many ticks as there are boxes – the superb Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe.
Very rarely do you come across a car capable of being both super-sporty and family friendly.
Every inch a Porsche in looks, style and performance, the Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe offers genuine appeal to families who want to add adventure and sumptuous comfort to their day-to-day driving.
With more than a nod to ‘electric’ (there is a 22-mile range available at your fingertips), this is an excellent stepping stone into what seems sure to become the future of motoring.
There are certainly no compromises with regards to power. An acceleration capability of 0-62mph in 5.1 secs and a top speed of 157 mph providing more than sufficient proof of performance.
A heady mix of driving dynamics and sustainability is guaranteed to bring a wide smile to any sports car enthusiast – hybrid technology developed on the racetrack, impressive fuel efficiency and ample space for the whole clan.
Talking of fuel economy, very relevant, irrespective of your budget – the Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe is capable of up to 88.3mpg (combined consumption).
Working off six cylinders, generating 460hp (combined), this is an all-wheel drive with real punch.
You know you’re going to love it at first sight with its great shape, 22-inch GT design wheels in Satin Platinum, roof spoiler and door release levers painted in high gloss black, the iconic Porsche logo in LED on the door courtesy lights and a sports exhaust system including sports tailpipes in black.
There are tinted LED main headlights (with matrix beam) and tinted LED tail lights including light strip, auto dimming interior and exterior mirrors and privacy glass.
The list goes on and it certainly looks the business, but things get even better when you take your seat and immerse yourself in unashamed luxury.
From the Alcantara ‘suede-feel’ steering wheel (heated and multifunctional of course) to the slightly tilted and perfectly proportioned full-HD 12.3-inch touchscreen and 360-degree Surround View, this is high-quality stuff.
Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is your control centre for audio, navigation and communication. As well as attractive and easy-to-use touchscreen display, PCM also provides extensive interfaces, voice control system and, of course, online connection. It is also possible to use Apple CarPlay.
There’s head-up display, Night Vision Assist, Park Assist (front and rear) including aforementioned Surround View, Remote Park Assist, Lane Keeping and Lane Change Assist, Collision and Brake Assist. With no shortage of ‘assistants’, there’s also the wonderful Porsche Connect including Voice Pilot, Navigation Plus and a Car Security Package (Porsche Vehicle Tracking System) which can detect and report thefts to a security centre allowing your vehicle to be located and secured by local authorities.
Remote services pay constant attention to vehicle data via the My Porsche app or portal. For added convenience, it allows you to control certain functions from a distance, such as locking windows and doors.
And the quality from the BOSE surround system is truly world class – you could be sitting in a concert hall.
As for sitting itself, the electric, multi-way sports seats (in a rather natty check material) are sculpted for dynamic driving, providing excellent support without losing anything in terms of comfort. Oh, and for muscle relaxation on longer journeys there is even a massage function (front seats).
The four-zone automatic climate system features individual temperature controls for the driver and front passenger and separate ones for the rear seats too. An active carbon filter traps particles, pollen and odours and thoroughly filters fine dust from the outside air before it reaches the car interior.
Final word on the actual drive itself. Glorious. It glides along with an air of effortless confidence, handling with ease and precision and happily slipping between the various driving modes (electric, petrol and sport) at the turn of a switch.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe just about has the lot, but then again this is Porsche. Nothing is ever left to chance.
Porsche Centre Preston
Watery Lane, Preston PR2 1QJ
01772 911911
porschepreston.co.uk
