Faults:

Jerky torque converter between 1st and 2nd shifts.

Valve gasket needs replacing (minor leak).

Clogged AC drain line (needed hose clamp pliers).

TPMS erroneously alerts every few months (flags as too low).

General concern about non-critical sensors failing.

The clock's second hand fell off (very common).

General Comments:

Great car, probably one of the best V8 German vehicles manufactured in recent years. Very smooth power delivery between 30-80mph, but some hesitation and jerkiness in low speeds. The 2013-2014 model year was the last naturally-aspirated Cayenne. US consumers will have to buy the Cayenne Turbo now to even get the V8, as the newer GTS (and Cayenne base upgrade) has a twin-turbo V6. The vehicle offers premium lighting and visibility, precise handling and adjustable air suspension (luxury or sport mode). As a side bonus, it also looks incredible.

Any hesitation one would have about these after the reliability concerns about the previous Cayenne should be rescinded. However, expensive fixes and maintenance on these are the norm. And the complexity level means things can break. The coolant tubes on the previous V8 Cayenne (955) were prone to cracking. And the 958's V8 engine also produces a ton of heat.

My personal opinion: get the 2013-14 GTS or a well-optioned Cayenne S with the V8. Check things like: air ride (make sure it goes up and down without warning), check the PCM menu, electrical (battery), lighting (LEDs are expensive), stereo and all speakers, check for water leaks on the panoramic sliding roof, check for oil leaks on the bottom (more common on diesel). Try to get the ventilated seats if you live in a warmer climate; the Alcantara seats look terrible but are more common. Either way, the bolstered seating is incredible and offers premium comfort for long driving.

Faults:

First problem I encountered was at the dealer. I have never seen salesmen that act like they don't need to sell cars. At first, I thought it was me, but my friend had trouble purchasing a 911 turbo, and had to threaten to have his attorney get involved with the transaction. They then started acting like they had some sense.

The one thing the dealers never inform the buyers of, is the horrible gas mileage. You will need to change brakes every 12000 miles, and tires every 10000 miles, and that's pushing it. You need to understand that this is a very heavy SUV.

The SUV ran fine until 34000 miles. I didn't have stereo problems because I changed my system for a Alpine DVD/nav system.

My power steering pump went out not once but twice, and the dealer wanted to put me in a Toyota Corolla for a loaner. I said, "no thanks, I'll drive my Bimmer".

The ignition coil went out twice; once at 35000 miles, and then at 70000 miles. Finally, one day the transmission started shifting rough out of 1st gear; that's when I thought hauling my boat around with this SUV had caught up with me. This was a easy fix; just replace the gear oil.

General Comments:

This is a very fast SUV, the ride is comfortable, and the Porsche still gets respect for a 7 year old vehicle. Handling is good, and great for long trips pulling a trailer. The truck has never left me stranded, and when 22 inches of snow hit my area, the Porsche drove like it was on dry land.