Now that Car Magazine has reviewed it, I am ready to talk about the displays. The magazine considers the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid a significant and successful update to the model line, offering one of the best large SUV experiences on the market, despite the hybrid version not being its finest incarnation. Although technically a facelift of the 2017 model, the extensive changes made across the board make it feel almost entirely new. The exterior design has been revamped, including a new front and rear end and redesigned taillights. The interiors are now dominated by digital displays but maintain physical controls for essential functions.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo engine combined with a 130kW electric motor, delivering a total output of 468bhp and 443lb ft of torque. The battery size has increased to 25.9 kWh, allowing an electric range of up to 46 miles. Charging from 0 to 100% takes just under 2.5 hours with an 11 kW onboard charger.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-litre V6 turbo with electric motor |
| Power Output | 468bhp |
| Torque | 443lb ft |
| Battery | 25.9 kWh |
| Electric Range (WLTP) | Up to 46 miles |
| Charging Time | 0-100% charge in just under 2.5 hours |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Performance (0-62mph) | 4.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 158mph |
| Fuel Economy (WLTP) | 157-188mpg |
| CO2 Emissions (WLTP) | 42-33g/km |
| Weight | 2425kg |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4930mm/2194mm/1696mm |
| Interior Display | 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster, optional 10.9-inch passenger information display |
| Connectivity | Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility |
| Unique Features | Cooled wireless phone charger with optimised charging of up to 15 watts |
But we are interested in something else, the display landscape inside the Cayenne which Porsche unveiled at the Auto Shanghai show on April 18 under the name, The Porsche Driver Experience.
The Porsche Driver Experience
The Cayenne’s cockpit borrows elements from the Taycan electric sports car, integrating them into a combustion engine vehicle for the first time. Noteworthy features include a curved, free-standing digital instrument cluster with versatile display options, a redesigned centre console, and an advanced steering wheel. The automatic gear selector has been moved to the right of the steering wheel, freeing up space on the console for a large, sophisticated air conditioning controller in a sleek black panel design.
The instrument cluster consists of a fully digital, free-standing, 12.6-inch curved display that doesn’t necessitate a hood cover. The driver can choose from up to seven views on the instrument cluster, depending on the equipment level. Options include the rev counter, online navigation, Night Vision Assist, and a 3D driving assistance system.
A primary aspect of the Porsche Driver Experience is striking the perfect balance between digital and analogue elements. The engine start button is traditionally placed to the left of the steering wheel. The gear selector is now located to the right of the steering wheel, providing room on the centre console for a large air conditioning control panel with analogue controls.
The multifunction sports steering wheel is inspired by the 911 model. It comes standard with a driving mode switch for selecting Normal, Offroad, Sport, and Sport Plus modes. The steering wheel also includes a new toggle button for selecting functions and designs in the instrument cluster and controls for an optional head-up display.
The air conditioning control panel on the centre console features a glass surface in a black panel design, offering a high-quality look. A blend of touch recognition, haptic feedback, and mechanical switches ensure a satisfying and functional user experience.
The central 12.3-inch high-resolution display serves as the control hub for Porsche Communication Management (PCM). A newly introduced feature in the Cayenne is the optional 10.9-inch passenger display. This additional touchscreen allows the front passenger to assist the driver by operating navigation or selecting media services. A special foil ensures that the display is not visible from the driver’s seat, allowing video streaming without distracting the driver.
The interior design of the Cayenne represents its sporty character, marrying dynamic functionality, luxurious comfort, and typical Cayenne design features. The air vents have been vertically aligned in the typical Cayenne fashion and, for the first time, all air outlets in the cockpit are designed without louvres.
Connectivity in the Cayenne has been significantly improved, with a standard cooled smartphone storage area with an inductive charging function, enabling optimal charging power of up to 15 watts. Two USB-C ports are available in the front storage compartment and another two in the rear area of the centre console. All USB ports offer a fast charging function, and the front ones also connect the smartphone to PCM.
Additional features include the integration of online services such as Siri voice assistant, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated apps like Spotify and Apple Music. The new In-Car Video function allows videos to be watched directly in the PCM via the streaming provider Screenhits TV – both in the central display when the vehicle is stationary and on the passenger display while driving.
