Porsche Cayenne Gets Update and New Options for 2005

The solenoid-operated panorama roof consists of three moving slabs of safety-laminated glass and a permanently fixed

Displayed in full color through the PCM system, a new rear-mounted camera makes hitching a trailer easy work while keeping toddlers lost in SUV's blind spot safe when reversing. (Photo: Porsche Cars North America)

fourth screen. The first acts much like a wind deflector, automatically rising when the roof is opened to reduce wind turbulence at higher speeds. Unlike the 911 Targa, which featured a single sliding panel of glass when available, the Cayenne's glass roof offers several panels in order to cater to the needs of both front and rear passengers. With 15 possible positions, all passengers should find it pleasing. What's more, at the push of an overhead button an electronic shutter can also be slid into place to protect occupants from excessive sun exposure. Customers will be able to purchase the panoramic roof option on all Cayennes for a price of $5,490 CAD ($3,900 USD).

Another option which will be available across the Cayenne model range as of December this year will be a rearview camera. This safety-precaution device was first mass-marketed on Toyota and Lexus SUVs as a parking and safety assist for the Japanese automaker's large sport utility vehicles. The rearward field of vision in a large SUV is minimal and is limited at the height of the tailgate, therefore anything below this point such as a wandering toddler or a potentially damaging obstacle would be "blind" to the driver. The camera, which eliminates this blind spot, is particularly useful for those who regularly hitch and tow trailers as well, as it

The tiny camera is just a few centimeters long, operating only when reverse gear is engaged. (Photo: Porsche Cars North America)

allows the driver to single-handedly reverse and attach the trailer without needing guidance from people outside the vehicle.

The Cayenne's camera stays out of sight, hidden behind a body-color cover which automatically opens when reverse is selected. The image from the camera is then displayed on the 6.5-inch TFT display integrated into the center stack as part of the Porsche Communications Management (PCM) system. Porsche's mechanism is particularly smart, with built-in precautions to avoid damage. Like most, the system doesn't work while the car is moving forward, but unique in the industry it will automatically retract if reverse speeds exceed 15 km/h. This option will be made available on all Cayennes worldwide for a price of $2,350 CAD ($1,680 USD).