2011 Porsche Cayenne: Up Close

Porsche says the redesigned Cayenne is almost 2 inches longer than the 2010 but looks smaller, and they aren’t kidding. Maybe it’s the smoother lines and less exaggerated features; whatever it is, it’s a more appealing vehicle that looks more like a Porsche than the original did. The spoiler on the trailing edge of the roof is cool. Its undulations recall the visor of a well-worn cap.

I’m most pleased with the interior quality, which is a step — make that three — above the previous generation’s. Porsche’s exclusivity, in performance and reputation, has allowed it to fall behind other luxury brands in this regard. The current Cayenne — and too many other models — have an overabundance of silver plastic that doesn’t even come close to looking like metal. The 2011’s plastic trim now looks like metal. The only aspect I’m not sold on is the shift buttons, which still feel plasticky and protrude awkwardly above the steering-wheel spokes.

The backseat now slides forward and back more than 6 inches, and it works well. With the front and rear seats positioned all the way back, there’s plenty of legroom in back for tall folks. My knees didn’t come near the driver’s seat backrest, though the floor is high enough to raise one’s knees a bit. This is no limousine.

Naturally, if you slide the seat forward you lose legroom but increase the cargo area. There appears to be one oversight, though: There’s no apparent provision for covering the gap that opens up between the backseat and the cargo floor — whether the seat is folded flat or not. Something’s sure to drop into that space, especially during the spirited driving all Porsches inspire.