Testing the limits of the new Porsche electric SUV on Indian roads

UPDATE - follow-up to 2026 Porsche Cayenne Turbo review – The most powerful car you can buy: The 1,156hp Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric delivers a 0-100kph time of 2.5 seconds, confirmed by VBOX testing, though acceleration times increase as the battery state of charge drops below 75 percent. Priced at Rs 2.28 crore, the vehicle was tested extensively at the Aamby Valley airstrip and on the twisting roads leading to Lonavala.

Performance and Handling

During high-speed runway runs, the SUV's massive 2.7-tonne weight strained the standard 420mm brake discs, causing them to squeal after repeated use. Reviewers noted that missing options like Active Ride Control and rear-axle steering led to noticeable body roll and a lack of front-wheel traction during heavy acceleration, though the car excelled during slow city cruising in Lonavala on its sensible 21-inch wheels.

Interior and Charging

Testing infrastructure in India presented multiple hurdles during the drive, including malfunctioning plugs, blocked charging spaces, poor mobile networks, and power cuts. Inside, the cabin features a cascading curved touchscreen, physical controls, a spacious 3,023mm wheelbase, a 747-litre boot, a 90-litre frunk, and 14 Bose speakers.

Context

High-performance electric vehicles offer immense acceleration figures, but testing them reveals the practical challenges of managing extreme weight and vehicle dynamics on public infrastructure. Luxury automakers continue to face a delicate balance between raw power output and everyday ride composure in diverse driving conditions.