How Does the Porsche Cayenne EV Feel on the Goodwood Hillclimb?
Climbing into the new Porsche Cayenne EV, you immediately sense its presence. It’s tall, commanding, and, while not quite as massive as a Range Rover, it certainly fills the lane. Sitting high above the tarmac, you might expect a bit of body roll—especially when you’re about to tackle the legendary Goodwood Festival of Speed’s hillclimb. But this isn’t your average SUV. With Porsche’s latest generation of active dampers and those fat 22-inch Pirelli P Zeros, the Cayenne EV feels more like a sports car on stilts than a lumbering family hauler.
What’s Under the Hood (and Floor) of the Cayenne EV?
Let’s talk numbers, because they matter here. The Cayenne EV packs a battery north of 100kWh, tucked neatly beneath the cabin. That means a low center of gravity, even with the higher ride height needed for off-road chops. And the power? Porsche’s not giving away all the secrets yet, but insiders peg it at over 1,000 horsepower from its dual-motor setup. That’s supercar territory—delivered in near silence, unless you opt for the synthesised V8 soundtrack, which feels oddly appropriate as you line up for a run.
How Does the Acceleration Compare to Other Performance EVs?
The moment the starter gives the thumbs-up, the Cayenne EV launches with a force that’s hard to describe. Forget the gentle surge you might expect from a luxury SUV; this is a full-on explosion. Your head snaps back, your insides do a quick shuffle, and the world outside blurs in a way that only four figures of torque can deliver. Even with all that power, the electronics keep wheelspin to a whisper—no drama, just relentless forward motion. For context, the Taycan—Porsche’s other electric rocket—sets a high bar, but the Cayenne EV feels every bit as quick off the line, despite its size.
What’s It Like Inside During a High-Speed Run?
Riding shotgun with Gabriela Jilková, a seasoned GT racer and Porsche development driver, you get a front-row seat to what this machine can do. Gabi’s calm focus is contagious; she’s unfazed by the speed, making micro-adjustments to the wheel as we carve through Goodwood’s infamous corners. The first double-apex right-hander comes up fast, but the Cayenne stays flat and composed, thanks in part to its sophisticated suspension and regenerative braking. There’s barely a hint of body roll—just grip and more grip.
How Does the Cayenne EV Handle Classic Goodwood Challenges?
Goodwood’s Molecomb corner has humbled many, but not today. The Cayenne EV flicks through the reverse-camber left-hander with the poise of a much smaller car. Even the tricky Flint Wall chicane, notorious for unsettling taller vehicles, is dispatched with ease. It’s here that the Cayenne’s dual personality shines: high-riding enough for off-road adventures, yet agile and planted enough to embarrass some sports cars on the track.
Does the Cayenne EV Deliver the Porsche Sports Car Experience?
Absolutely. Despite its size and electric powertrain, the Cayenne EV feels every inch a Porsche. The steering is precise, the brakes are strong (with a healthy assist from regen), and the acceleration is addictive. There’s a sense of occasion, too—especially as you rocket past the grandstands and under the bridge, crowds blurring into a sea of faces. It’s not just fast for an SUV; it’s fast, period.
What’s the Real-World Impact of This Electric SUV?
Beyond the numbers and the spectacle, the Cayenne EV signals a major shift for Porsche. Here’s a vehicle that combines genuine off-road ability, family-friendly practicality, and supercar-level performance—all without burning a drop of petrol. According to a 2023 report from the International Energy Agency, global EV sales are projected to top 14 million units this year, up 35% from 2022. Porsche’s commitment to electrification isn’t just about keeping up; it’s about setting the pace for what a luxury performance EV can be.
What’s the Takeaway After Experiencing the Cayenne EV?
After the adrenaline fades and the speed bleeds away, there’s a moment to reflect at the top of the hill. Gabi’s contented smile says it all: this is a car that delivers on its promise. For drivers and passengers alike, the Cayenne EV isn’t just a technical achievement—it’s a genuine thrill ride. The big takeaway? Porsche’s Cayenne EV isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.