The Porsche Cayenne II (Type 958) marks a major break from the first generation (955/957). More dynamic, it benefits from a drastic weight loss (up to 250 kg less) thanks to the abandonment of the low-range transfer case in favor of a lighter active AWD. The interior takes a spectacular leap forward, inspired by the Panamera's center console. Facelifted in 2014 (Phase 2), it abandons the naturally aspirated V8 for a twin-turbo V6 on the S and GTS versions. Although overall reliability is significantly higher compared to its predecessor, it remains a complex ultra-premium SUV whose maintenance requires a substantial budget.
The Porsche Cayenne II (958) is an exceptional vehicle that corrected the most serious teething problems of the first generation (notably the V8 coolant pipes). TÜV and ADAC statistics place it in the average for its category, which is honorable for such a complex SUV. However, make no mistake: buying a used Cayenne requires a 'supercar' level maintenance budget. The transfer case is the Achilles heel of this generation, and the air suspension will inevitably require expenses. For a petrol purchase, the 3.6 V6 (300 hp) is the choice of reason and reliability, while the V6 Bi-Turbo (Phase 2) offers the best performance/reliability compromise. Flee from examples with a blurry history or that have been modified.