2006 Porsche Cayenne Overview

2006 Porsche Cayenne Overview

Overall User Score

4.6⁄5

Based on 18 reviews

The Porsche Cayenne was available in a wide range of trim packages for 2006, with four engine options. The base Cayenne was powered by a 3.2-liter V6 that produced 250 horsepower. Stepping up a notch, a 340-horsepower, 4.5-liter V8 was dropped under the hood of the Cayenne S and the Cayenne S Titanium Edition. A turbocharged 4.5-liter V8, producing 450 horsepower, provided power for the appropriately named Cayenne Turbo, while the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo S, new for 2006, pumped up the power even more with a turbocharged 4.5-liter V8 that produced a whopping 520 horsepower.
A six-speed manual transmission was standard on the base Cayenne, while a six-speed automatic was optional. For all other models, the six-speed automatic was the only transmission available.
All models featured all-wheel-drive, as well as power windows, 12-way adjustable power front seats, a multi-function steering wheel with controls for the audio system, heated windshield wiper nozzles, leather seats (heated in the front), cruise control, a central locking system with remote, front and side airbags, and an AM/FM radio with a CD player.
The S Titanium Edition added a sunroof, while the Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S added a Parking Assist system, heat-insulating laminated glass, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system, among other features.
Off-road, the Cayenne offered an 8.5-inch ground clearance with the steel suspension and air suspension at normal level, and a 10.7-inch ground clearance on models equipped with the air-suspension system at off-road ride height.
Drivers praised the Cayenne's acceleration, tight handling, roominess, and comfortable seating. In addition, drivers liked the Cayenne's six-speed manual transmission. However, the six-speed automatic was a bit controversial, especially with reviewers, who noted that it tended to accelerate the vehicle even when the foot was held constant on the gas pedal. The six-speed also could be a bit jumpy on downshifts, reviewers noted.