Tons of power, tons of weight, and a hefty price tag.
Performance plug-in hybrids evoke mixed emotions like few other vehicles. On paper, they seem like the ideal compromise between gas and electric: smooth, emissions-free city driving, extended range with quick refueling for long trips, and jaw-dropping performance when the engine and motor combine forces.
The new Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid delivers on all these promises—but not without its complexities.
For the 2024 model year, Porsche extensively updated the third-generation Cayenne, and the changes are significant. Battery capacity in the plug-in hybrid models jumps from 14.1 kWh to 25.9 kWh, nearly doubling the electric range. The electric motor now produces 174 horsepower (up from 134), and paired with a revised twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid churns out a staggering 729 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than the outgoing Turbo S E-Hybrid and any combustion SUV currently available—except the Lamborghini Urus Performante, which shares much of its hardware.
A Heavy Price to Pay—Literally and Figuratively
The base price for the 2025 Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid starts at $158,995, and the weight is equally eye-watering. Porsche quotes a curb weight of 5,719 pounds for the coupe version, nearly 700 pounds more than the non-hybrid Cayenne GTS Coupe with the same V8.
It’s an absurd proposition: a luxury SUV nodding toward environmental responsibility with its hybrid powertrain, yet equipped with a twin-turbo V8 and tipping the scales at more than two original Boxsters combined. This excess defines the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid—it’s “so much car” in every sense.
Performance That Defies Physics
Despite its heft, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is shockingly agile. Equipped with optional rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll systems, it handles corners with surprising poise. In Sport Plus mode, the suspension lowers, the adaptive dampers stiffen, and body roll becomes nearly nonexistent.
The steering, while precise, is lighter than expected for a Porsche, and the rear-wheel steering below 50 mph can feel slightly unnatural at first. Still, the updated springs and dampers provide an exceptional balance of ride comfort and sportiness. Even with optional 22-inch wheels, large bumps barely register.
However, the weight is always apparent under braking. Whether slowing for a stop sign or coming to a complete halt, the mass shifts noticeably. The braking system, which blends regenerative and friction braking, is inconsistent. Carbon-ceramic rotors (a $9,070 option) exacerbate the challenge, making smooth stops a chore.
Raw Power Meets Hybrid Complexity
Once in motion, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is blisteringly quick. The combination of electric motor and V8 delivers relentless torque, making highway overtakes effortless and acceleration from low gears downright exhilarating. Performance like this was once reserved for top-tier 911s, and the V8’s burbling, thunderous exhaust note (enhanced by the $10,700 Lightweight Sport Package) is addictive.
But the hybrid system has its quirks. The motor and engine transition smoothly most of the time, but occasional hiccups occur during acceleration. And while the hybrid system can reduce fuel consumption, it doesn’t turn the Cayenne into an eco-warrior.
Hybrid Efficiency: A Mixed Bag
The updated Cayenne hybrids include an 11-kW onboard charger, allowing for a full charge in about 2.5 hours with the right setup. The EPA estimates 24 miles of electric range, though real-world figures often approach 40 miles.
In city driving, the hybrid system shines. The Cayenne can operate in electric-only mode for most short trips, keeping the V8 dormant unless you demand more power. On longer highway journeys, efficiency depends on battery charge and driving style. During a 200-mile round trip with a mix of highway speeds and city traffic, the Cayenne achieved 27 mpg with a full battery—compared to 22 mpg with minimal charge.
While these figures are impressive for a performance SUV, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid still represents conspicuous consumption. Its efficiency gains don’t fully offset its weight and complexity.
A Love-Hate Relationship
The Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid embodies the best and worst of both worlds. It offers incredible performance and surprising efficiency under ideal conditions, but at other times, it feels like an overcomplicated compromise.
For a more balanced approach, the base Cayenne E-Hybrid or S E-Hybrid might make more sense, pairing a lighter, more efficient V6 with the same hybrid tech. But the Turbo’s performance and audacious personality are undeniably captivating.
Final Verdict: Excess Redefined
As with any Porsche, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid comes with a steep price tag. The 2025 model starts at $163,945, with our test car’s as-tested price just shy of $200,000. While some options—like the carbon-ceramic brakes—can be skipped, this is an expensive SUV no matter how you configure it.
The Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid inspires a range of emotions: awe, amusement, and occasional frustration. It’s utterly ridiculous, but also undeniably impressive. Against all logic, it’s hard not to want one—even if you can’t quite justify why.
