The Porsche Cayenne Is Taking the Off-Roading World By Storm
For cheap, off-road fun, car enthusiasts are turning to modified Porsche Cayennes. While the early 2000s SUV might not seem like the perfect dirt vehicle, it certainly scratches an off-roading itch.
Off-roading is a pastime that many adventurous motorists enjoy. When people think of off-roading vehicles, names such as Jeep or Land Rover come to mind. Indeed, hearing the terms “off-road” evokes images of a rugged, durable vehicle that can handle whatever obstacles the elements throw at it.
However, there is one SUV model that is taking the off-roading world by storm, and it's from an automaker that is known for making
. It’s the Porsche Cayenne, and after extensive modding, it might just be the perfect wealthy off-road ride. And while it's made by Porsche, it's relatively inexpensive and powerful, which is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
writes about people using Porsche Cayennes to go off-roading. The article notes that you can get a first-generation, early 2000s model for around $5,000. That era Cayenne has aged well, going from a "luxury-focused mall crawler," to a rugged favorite that is capable of more than just driving along suburban streets. With V8 power, it's a good choice for off-roaders on a budget.
One caveat is you'll have to be willing to do your own maintenance and repairs if you take a Porsche Cayenne off-roading. Because Porsche didn't design the Cayenne to be used off-road, you may have to make some modifications to it.
If you go with an early-model Cayenne, you'll get a PL71 chassis with low-range four-wheel drive, which works well for off-road purposes. Air suspension is available, which gives you up to an extra 4.5 inches of height for additional ground clearance. Porsche also offered an optional off-road package with the Cayenne, adding skid plates, a disconnect for the rear sway bar, and a locking rear differential.
As far as engines go, in the launch year, Porsche gave buyers the choice of 340 hp and 450 hp versions of a dry-sump 4.5L V8, with the 450 hp having twin turbos. The following model year added a third option, with a 520 hp 3.2L VR6. The transmission is a six-speed automatic.
Why the Porsche Cayenne is a good off-roader
MORE:The Top 3 Rock Crawling Vehicles for the Adventurous Off-Roader
Even though it's intended to be used for a daily drive, the Cayenne's specs and modding capability make it a good choice to take off-road.
took the Cayenne on an off-road adventure to get a sense of how good it is in that environment. The author concluded that he "was surprised how well the Porsche Cayenne performed in an off-road environment," especially considering very few owners will use it for that purpose.
Taking the Porsche Cayenne off-roading can do a number on it
We already discussed being able to do your own repair work if you take the Cayenne off-roading. It’s vital to know your way around a car, especially when you’re off-roading, as wear and tear is inevitable. With that in mind, anyone who takes a Porsche Cayenne off-road should make sure they have a good insurance policy.
And those people should use Jerry to find a policy at a low price that they can afford. There's a reason why
is the first car super app. We compare rates from more than 50 companies, including Allstate and Travelers, and save the average driver $879 a year on car insurance, which gives you more money to prep your vehicle for off-roading fun.
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