2003 Porsche Cayenne Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
Now 911 Turbo owners know what SUV to buy for those road trips to ski country.
Pros
Sports car performance, available adjustable ride height and suspension damping control, name cachet.
Cons
More expensive than its direct competitors, some fussy interior controls.
What's New for 2003
We would've never imagined it, but Porsche jumps onto the SUV gravy train. The Cayenne, with a choice of two potent V8s and an available active suspension, promises performance that's more like a 911 than an SUV.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
It Drives Like a Porsche
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 5 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 1 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Porsche Cayenne S Tiptronic 4WD 4dr SUV (4.5L 8cyl 6A)
Review
I bought my Cayenne used, one year old. I'm quite amazed at how it holds the road for such a heavy car and the way it really handles like a Porsche. It is a very good compromise, as it's first- class in every situation, perfect handling on twisty roads, very good off-road (providing the right type of tyres) and very practical. It is not a true sports car of course, but still a very good every day car.
Favorite Features
The handling, Porsche feel, very good stereo when you add the BOSE sound system, and everyday practicality.
Suggested Improvements
Improved its fuel economy (without going diesel of course!) and build-quality. On small twisty roads the A-pillar takes the view away and you've got to lean forward to see if no one's coming your way. Give it better paint quality and improved the ride quality on standard coil springs.
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
The Best
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Porsche Cayenne S Tiptronic 4WD 4dr SUV (4.5L 8cyl 6A)
Review
I am 6'2 and always planned to buy a 911 as a kid. However, a 911 is not comfortable to someone me size. Then came the Cayenne and my dream is fulfilled. I love this SUV it is the best of both worlds.........
Favorite Features
Powers and comfort
Suggested Improvements
Reclining rear seats
Satisfied
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Porsche Cayenne S Tiptronic 4WD 4dr SUV (4.5L 8cyl 6A)
Review
I am 6'2 and have desired a 911 even before I could afford one. However, I refused to pay that much for a vehicle I could not be comfortable in. My prayers were answered with the Cayenne. I love this vehicle, like no other SUV on the market. Certainly, I have encountered small issues that were addressed and fixed quickly. This SUV is the best: Performance, power and comfort.
Favorite Features
Lots of interior space, acceleration, distinguish looks.
Suggested Improvements
Better heated seat controls, reclining rear set and automatic rear door open/close
My Turbo Blows!!!!!!!!!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 1 | Fun-to-Drive: | 1 | Build Quality: | 1 |
| Comfort: | 3 | Interior Design: | 2 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 1 | Exterior Design: | 2 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Porsche Cayenne Turbo Tiptronic 4WD 4dr SUV (4.5L 8cyl Turbo 6A)
Review
I hate this SUV. In the shop for more than 75 days. Tires wear out every 2000 miles. Car vibrates on highway. Electrical problems. Door lock problems. I real piece of crap for $100,000
Favorite Features
NONE
Suggested Improvements
Too many to list
2 out 2 people found this review helpful
Unhappy Camper
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 4 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 4 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 4 | Reliability: | 3 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Porsche Cayenne S Tiptronic 4WD 4dr SUV (4.5L 8cyl 6A)
Review
My Cayenne was a joy to drive until the recalls came in..I am on my 12th recall. New computer system, new drive shaft. Tires wore out at 7K miles due to front end vibration. 2 sets of brakes. Interior trim vibrates. Rear door handles have broken off, ski door broken, wood trim has come lose. On my third set of brakes. Each set are noisy and Porsche says thats normal. Interesting design feature! Dealer cannot keep story straight and service is getting worse. Ski racks whistle so loud you have to remove to drive and keep sanity. Dealer service is the worst I have ever experienced.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
6 out 6 people found this review helpful
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