A LUXURY DRIVE: NEW PORSCHE CAYENNE COUPÉ

WHEN SEARCHING FOR THE ULTIMATE IN SUV EXTRAVAGANCE – WHERE PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN ARE THE PERFECT MATCH – LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE NEW PORSCHE CAYENNE COUPÉ. FACT TAKES THE MIGHTY VEHICLE OUT FOR A SPIN…

Over the years, Porsche have managed to set themselves apart from most other car manufacturers. They have done this through their unwavering dedication to style, luxury, class and above all through superior technology and performance. This iconic brand has gained an ever increasing international following and respect since its founding in 1931 as they constantly produce offerings that are not only functionally superior to other car manufacturers, but are also beautiful to look at from every angle. With ever more impressive models being produced, Porsche have firmly established themselves in the very upper echelons of the luxury SUV segment. At FACT, we’re all about getting behind the wheel and putting the car through its paces. Recently, we had the privilege of experiencing this heritage automobile excellence first-hand, when we were invited by the team at Porsche Centre Bahrain to test drive the new Porsche Cayenne Coupé.

You may think that the Cayenne Range has only a certain amount of room for improvement after which only the bells and whistles can be upgraded. This is not the truth as was proven to us by this new model SUV. We immediately noticed the dynamic fresh design of this third-generation model, complete with its sharper lines and unique rear section. The elegant roofline of this athletic looking vehicle has a sharper slope to it that falls away to the rear making it the sportiest-looking model in the segment. The roof spoiler accentuates this effect and is combined with a new adaptive rear spoiler that form part of the label’s new Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA).

This spoiler extends by 135 mm from speeds of 90 km/h upwards, increasing the contact pressure of the rear axle, whilst the PAA simultaneously improves efficiency. The A-pillar and front windscreen are now flatter than previous Cayenne models, with the roof edge having been lowered by around twenty millimetres. The rear doors and fenders have also been redesigned, adding to this SUV’s powerful and sophisticated presence. An impressive 2.16 m2 fixed glass roof is fitted as standard, although a contoured carbon roof is also available upon request.

Once inside the luxurious cabin area, we instantly noticed the abundance of space on offer. This freedom of movement combined with the new eight-way sports seats complete with integrated headrests, ensure unparalleled levels of comfort, support and functionality. All of the materials, trimmings, fabrics and finishes found inside are of premium quality and the overall design is simply exceptional. This new Coupé features a rear bench that has the characteristics of two individual seats that are fitted as standard, although the familiar comfort rear seats can be fitted as an alternative at no extra cost. The spaciousness of the cabin is echoed in the rear with ample leg, shoulder and head room providing an exceptionally comfortable space for passengers.

The 625-litre boot capacity ensures this car is capable of transporting a generous amount of luggage, giving it an element of practicality. This can be increased to 1,540 litres when the back seats are folded flat. More than impressed with both the interior and exterior of the vehicle, it was time to experience it’s on road capabilities.

As soon as foot was applied to pedal, we could not help but smile at you another as we felt our bodies being pressed back into our seats. The Cayenne’s turbocharged V6 engine roared smoothly as we effortlessly surged forward along the tarmac. With a threelitre displacement delivering 340 hp and a maximum torque of 450 Nm, this sporty SUV has more power on offer than should ever be required. With the Sport Chrono Package fitted in series production vehicles, this mid-sized luxury SUV races from 0 – 100 km/h in just 6.0 seconds and boasts a top speed of 243 km/h. With the PAA assuring we stayed glued to the ground as we powered around corners and sped along the straights, we found the handling of the vehicle to be superb and always felt in complete control of the experience. This feeling of security was hugely enhanced by an extremely efficient braking system as well as the presence of a multitude of standard safety features.

The term “time flies when you’re having fun” certainly applied here and all too soon we found this lavish experience nearing an end as we made our way back to Porsche Centre Bahrain. Our conclusion: If you are looking for an SUV that delivers in all areas of functionality, performance, design and class, the exuberant new Porsche Cayenne Coupé is the answer to all your motoring woes. ✤