Porsche Cayenne (2nd Generation) - The Ultimate Guide

Launched as a fully redesigned model for the 2011 model year, the second generation introduced significant improvements in performance, technology, and efficiency compared to its predecessor. It continued with annual updates and various new model introductions, such as the Turbo S, Cayenne Diesel, Cayenne S Hybrid, and the plug-in hybrid Cayenne S E-Hybrid. Production for this generation concluded in 2018, making way for the third-generation Cayenne (9Y0), which debuted in 2019.

​The price of a second-generation Porsche Cayenne (model years 2011 to 2018) varies widely based on factors such as model year, trim level, mileage, condition, and optional features. According to Classic.com, the average sale price for these vehicles is approximately $31,005, with recorded sale prices ranging from as low as $6,775 to as high as $86,000.

For instance, earlier models like the 2011 Cayenne can be found with prices starting around $10,995, depending on condition and mileage. On the other hand, later models or higher-performance variants such as the Cayenne Turbo S from 2016 may command prices upwards of $86,000.

It's important to note that prices can fluctuate based on market demand, regional differences, and the specific vehicle's history. Therefore, when considering the purchase of a second-generation Porsche Cayenne, it's advisable to research current listings and consult multiple sources to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing market conditions.

The differences between the first-generation (955/957, 2003–2010) and second-generation (958, 2011–2018) Porsche Cayenne are substantial, covering design, performance, technology, and overall refinement.

The first-generation Cayenne features a more rugged, utilitarian appearance with rounded headlights, conservative lines, and a robust stance. Its styling aligned with the early-2000s Porsche design language and shared its platform with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touareg and Audi Q7. This made it comparatively heavy, impacting handling, fuel efficiency, and performance.

In contrast, the second-generation Cayenne embraced a sleeker, sportier, and more streamlined design inspired by Porsche’s contemporary lineup, particularly the Panamera. Slimmer headlights, smoother body contours, and an overall more modern, athletic stance significantly updated the Cayenne's visual appeal. This generation adopted a lighter platform, significantly reducing weight (around 400 lbs lighter on average), which improved agility, handling precision, and fuel economy.

Inside, the first-generation Cayenne offered functional interiors that were practical yet somewhat dated by today’s standards, particularly regarding infotainment and navigation technology. With the second generation, Porsche dramatically upgraded interior quality, design, and technology. Inspired heavily by the Panamera, the newer Cayenne showcased luxurious materials, enhanced ergonomics, a significantly improved infotainment system, and more advanced driver-assist technologies.

Engine and performance changes between the generations were also noteworthy. The first-generation Cayenne featured naturally aspirated and turbocharged V6 and V8 engines ranging from 3.2 to 4.8 liters, delivering solid power but limited efficiency. The second-generation models brought significant advancements, including direct fuel injection, engine stop-start systems, and the introduction of hybrid and diesel powertrains. These enhancements delivered better performance, lower emissions, and improved fuel economy, especially notable in performance variants like the Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S, which offered significantly increased horsepower and quicker acceleration.

Finally, handling and ride quality saw major improvements in the second generation. While the first-generation Cayenne provided capable but somewhat truck-like dynamics, the second-generation Cayenne, thanks to its lighter construction, advanced suspension systems, and improved chassis tuning, became noticeably sportier, delivering driving dynamics closer to Porsche’s sports-car heritage.

In short, the second-generation Cayenne represented a considerable evolution from its predecessor, becoming lighter, quicker, more luxurious, and more technologically advanced—solidifying Porsche’s commitment to building SUVs that genuinely blend sports-car handling and luxury.

The differences between the second-generation (958; 2011–2018) and third-generation (9Y0; 2019–present) Porsche Cayenne represent another significant evolution, marked by advances in design, technology, performance, and overall sophistication.

The second-generation Cayenne introduced a lighter, sportier, and more refined approach compared to the first generation, significantly enhancing Porsche’s standing in the luxury SUV segment. It improved handling, performance, and introduced hybrid powertrains. Still, by the end of its run, it began to show its age in terms of interior technology and connectivity compared to emerging competitors.

In contrast, the third-generation Cayenne, launched in 2019, introduced an entirely new platform (shared with VW Group's MLB Evo architecture), offering even greater weight savings, improved agility, and increased interior space. Its styling evolved subtly but effectively, becoming sharper, more contemporary, and clearly influenced by Porsche’s latest models like the Panamera and Macan. The third-generation Cayenne also emphasized advanced technology, featuring digital instrument clusters, large touchscreen infotainment systems, and significantly upgraded driver-assistance systems.

Performance-wise, the third-generation Cayenne took another leap forward, featuring more powerful and efficient engines across the lineup. Notably, the Cayenne introduced a stronger focus on hybridization, including high-performance plug-in hybrids such as the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, combining exceptional power (up to 670 horsepower) with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.

The interior quality and overall luxury experience significantly improved in the third generation, with premium materials, refined ergonomics, and advanced connectivity features that outclassed the second generation. Suspension systems also saw dramatic upgrades, such as adaptive air suspension, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), rear-axle steering, and advanced brake technologies, further enhancing driving dynamics and ride comfort.

In summary, the transition from the second- to third-generation Cayenne involved substantial improvements in technology, performance, luxury, and refinement, marking another significant evolution in Porsche’s ongoing development of the luxury SUV category.

The second-generation Porsche Cayenne (958, 2011–2018) was remarkably fast, especially for a luxury SUV, with performance varying significantly by model variant.

The base second-gen Cayenne, equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 producing around 300 horsepower, delivered a 0–60 mph time of about 7.1 seconds, topping out near 142 mph. The Cayenne S, featuring a more powerful 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V8 (400 hp), accelerated to 60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds, with a top speed around 160 mph.

The Cayenne Turbo elevated performance considerably with its 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine generating 500 horsepower. It could sprint from 0–60 mph in roughly 4.4 seconds, achieving a top speed of approximately 172 mph.

Porsche introduced even higher performance with the Cayenne Turbo S variant, particularly the 2016–2018 model years, which produced an impressive 570 horsepower. This model could accelerate from 0–60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and achieved a top speed of around 176 mph, making it one of the fastest SUVs available during its production run.

Additionally, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, such as the Cayenne S Hybrid and Cayenne S E-Hybrid, offered a balanced combination of performance and efficiency. For example, the Cayenne S E-Hybrid produced a combined 416 horsepower, enabling a 0–60 mph time around 5.4 seconds and a top speed of approximately 151 mph.

Overall, the second-generation Cayenne delivered sports-car-like acceleration and impressive top speeds, reinforcing Porsche's leadership in the high-performance luxury SUV market.

The best year for a second-generation Porsche Cayenne is generally considered to be 2017 or 2018, the final two model years of the generation (958.2 facelift).

These later models benefited from refinements and improvements made throughout the second-generation Cayenne’s lifecycle, including updated infotainment technology, enhanced reliability, better interior materials, and improved performance. The 2015 facelift (958.2) brought notable styling enhancements, engine upgrades, improved fuel economy, and significant updates to the infotainment and connectivity systems.

Specifically, 2017–2018 models represent the most refined, reliable, and feature-rich versions of this generation, especially the high-performance variants like the Cayenne Turbo, Turbo S, and the Cayenne GTS. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid Cayenne S E-Hybrid became well-rounded and more efficient by these final years, offering excellent power and lower running costs.

Therefore, if you're considering buying a second-generation Cayenne, choosing a late-model year such as 2017 or 2018 ensures you'll benefit from the most comprehensive improvements and highest levels of refinement and reliability.