Porsche called the 2024 Cayenne one of its most extensive product upgrades in the company’s history.

Given the high levels that the previous model operated at, it seems an impossible task to make something this great, even greater. Spoiler alert, they did.

EXTERIOR

The Cayenne, even as an SUV, is all in on the Porsche mantra. Having hit peak with the third generation, the way forward here has been one of evolution rather than revolution. It retains the Porsche flyline, which translates the iconic profile of the 911 sports car to the SUV.

All around its nip and tuck, a new front fascia, deeper arched front fenders, and standard Matrix LED headlights. In the rear, the tail lights have a more sculpted three-dimensional appearance, and there’s a new rear diffuser with a repositioned licence plate holder.

In typical Porsche, there is the ability to customise as to the depth of one’s wallet, and nods to performance beginning with standard 20-inch wheels. Up to 33 kilograms of weight, including a carbon fibre roof, can be shaved off the Cayenne depending on how optioned.

INTERIOR

The already impressive interior manages another step up continuing the blend on technology and traditional luxury. Every surface of the cabin is covered in quality materials, while main functions are easily accessed, powered, or automated.

The big jump is the Porsche Driver Experience. This is taken from the all-electric Taycan sedan. It is screens, screens, and more screens. The first is a 12.6-inch curved floating instrument cluster. The second is the 12.3-inch infotainment. The optional third is a 10.9-inch for the passenger that provides separate access to driver information and entertainment. This fully completes the bridge of a starship design of the cabin.

Yet it’s all ergonomic — even with the new location of the gear selector, easy to learn and operate. It doesn’t get in the way of the driving experience as it can all just fade into the background due to the excellent Burmester stereo system and refined interior.

ON THE ROAD

Where the Porsche has always led the field is its driving dynamics. It drives like nothing else in its class. Comfortable luxury long- distance cruiser. Check! Yet, the Cayenne can get the blood pumping with its easy to activate launch control to bring the new, more powerful 3-litre V6 turbocharged motor alive. It’s no slouch in the corners as even the standard trim comes with Porsche Active Suspension Management. New dampers with 2-valve technology keep the SUV glued to the ground, flat but compliant during cornering, and stable in off-road situations. Those with higher budgets can opt for air suspension, which is just magic under all conditions. The way the new Cayenne accelerates, brakes, and turns illustrates how close to sports car-like a luxury SUV can be.

The combination of elements that make up the Cayenne already made it unlike any of its class rivals. Others may skew in one direction at the expense of another, but the Porsche is for those who don’t want to compromise. It is as luxurious as it is fast, as it is practical. For 2024 it’s managed to be even better to retain its place at the top.