Porsche Cayenne

Since the high-efficiency diesel variant joined the Cayenne family last year, and the top-of-the-line, 550-horsepower Turbo S went on sale recently, there are no substantive changes for 2014. The Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus becomes an option across the line.

A new diesel variant joins the Cayenne lineup for 2013, and earns its place as one of the most fuel-efficient mid-size SUVs on the market. In addition, the current Cayenne Turbo relinquishes the top spot in the Cayenne range to the new 550-horsepower Turbo S (available Spring 2013).

Following its 2011 remodel, the Cayenne isn't remarkably changed for 2012. Among the biggest new features is an optional power kit for the Cayenne Turbo that adds 40 horsepower to crank out a total of 540. The turbo version also gets slightly larger front disc brakes, and all models receive upgraded carpet in the cargo hull and on seatbacks.

The all-new 2011 Porsche Cayenne larger and roomier, but 400 pounds lighter. It's more powerful, but more fuel-efficient. The lineup now includes a hybrid model, and offers a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system that actually raises its Porsche-ness to a new level.

For 2010, two new models join the lineup: The Cayenne S Transsyberia and the limited edition Cayenne GTS Porsche Design Edition 3.

A new flagship, the 550-horseopower Cayenne Turbo S, joins the line up bringing to five the number of models wearing the Cayenne badge. Other changes include a revised Porsche Communications Management System (PCM) using a touchscreen instead of a keypad to access information. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) technology is offered for the first time, while the GTS trim's sport seats and red or gold paint is now available on all Cayenne models.

Porsche calls its 2008 Cayenne the second generation of the vehicle, but that is not nearly as noticeable from the exterior styling as it is from the engine choices and the new level of equipment.