2010 Porsche Cayenne Diesel

long with the smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, makes the Porsche Cayenne Diesel one of the most enjoyable to drive SUVs on the market.The exterior far sharper and more sporting than before and the inside benefitting from massively improved materials and the cockpit feel of the Panamera.

Despite larger exterior dimensions (to the benefit of passenger space inside), the Cayenne looks smaller on the road. That’s a clever trick, and makes the Cayenne a far better rival for its German premium SUV competition. Fitted with the optional PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) and larger 19-inch wheels, the Cayenne Diesel rides decently enough.

Inside there’s two-zone climate control, leather, cruise control, power seats, front and rear parking sensors, 18-inch alloy wheels and an audio system with a seven-inch touch-screen. Naturally, you can add a lot to that, the Cayenne needing Bluetooth telephony, an iPod interface and Porsche Communication Management (including satnav) as a minimum to be properly specified.

Tall SUV has any right to. The turbodiesel feels brisker than its 7.8-second 0-62mph time suggests, it even sounding pleasingly rorty when you’re driving it without any thought to economy. Thanks to a 240bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission driving all four wheels. The drivetrain includes auto start-stop to help reduce fuel consumption.