In the 2000s, many enthusiasts criticized Porsche for taking the SUV train with the original Cayenne. There were concerns that the Zuffenhausen brand would gradually move away from sports cars to print money with sport utility vehicles, especially with the subsequent launch of the smaller and cheaper Macan. But look at where the German brand stands today, offering 718 and 911 ranges that have never had so many members.
The growing popularity of SUVs has allowed Porsche not only to invest in its base sports cars, but also to diversify the lineup with the addition of the Panamera and its family sister. At the same time, the electric assault has started with the Taycan and its long-roof counterpart, with a Macan EV arriving next year. Yet another member could join the portfolio as a three-row SUV speculatively rendered here by Kolesa.
They took a current generation Cayenne as a base and lengthened its wheelbase and rear overhang to accommodate a third row. While the digital illustration is more of a shot in the dark using Porsche’s latest design language, some evidence suggests the company is planning its very first model that can accommodate more than five seats.
Positioned above the Cayenne, the three-row SUV is apparently destined for release in the second half of the decade, according to some Porsche dealers. They also claim that it will have a plug-in hybrid setup while describing the styling as a significant departure from the current crop of models. Of particular concern is the “part sedan, part crossover” look mentioned by one of the dealers, as this mashup didn’t really work for the Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury concept.
It remains to be seen whether Porsche will play it safe since this illustration paints the portrait of the three-row SUV or whether it will indeed opt for a completely different direction for its large SUV. Meanwhile, dealers say it has a “flat rear design” and could be followed by a purely electric derivative.
Design aside, a more spacious SUV makes sense for people with deep pockets who want more functionality without compromising too much on performance and handling.
