2013 Porsche Cayenne GTS 4.6 V8 from North America

Summary:

Buy the 958 V8 Cayenne if you can afford it, especially the GTS

Faults:

Jerky torque converter between 1st and 2nd shifts.

Valve gasket needs replacing (minor leak).

Clogged AC drain line (needed hose clamp pliers).

TPMS erroneously alerts every few months (flags as too low).

General concern about non-critical sensors failing.

The clock's second hand fell off (very common).

General Comments:

Great car, probably one of the best V8 German vehicles manufactured in recent years. Very smooth power delivery between 30-80mph, but some hesitation and jerkiness in low speeds. The 2013-2014 model year was the last naturally-aspirated Cayenne. US consumers will have to buy the Cayenne Turbo now to even get the V8, as the newer GTS (and Cayenne base upgrade) has a twin-turbo V6. The vehicle offers premium lighting and visibility, precise handling and adjustable air suspension (luxury or sport mode). As a side bonus, it also looks incredible.

Any hesitation one would have about these after the reliability concerns about the previous Cayenne should be rescinded. However, expensive fixes and maintenance on these are the norm. And the complexity level means things can break. The coolant tubes on the previous V8 Cayenne (955) were prone to cracking. And the 958's V8 engine also produces a ton of heat.

My personal opinion: get the 2013-14 GTS or a well-optioned Cayenne S with the V8. Check things like: air ride (make sure it goes up and down without warning), check the PCM menu, electrical (battery), lighting (LEDs are expensive), stereo and all speakers, check for water leaks on the panoramic sliding roof, check for oil leaks on the bottom (more common on diesel). Try to get the ventilated seats if you live in a warmer climate; the Alcantara seats look terrible but are more common. Either way, the bolstered seating is incredible and offers premium comfort for long driving.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th January, 2019

13th Jan 2019, 21:29

I absolutely despise very sensitive tire pressure monitors. If your tires are even just a few pounds off you have to deal with dash alerts. Then if the TPM batteries go you have to remove tires to replace and relearn at a tire dealer, and that is costly. I just buy new ones when tires need replaced. We have a couple cars that don’t even tell you what what specific tire is low. And a visual doesn’t always show which tire it is.