From the logbook: 2011 Porsche Cayenne V6

It's been a long time since we posted a "Logbook" blog on a Porsche. Too long. The last Porsche logbook we shared was back in 2006 for the much-revered 911, which was among a number of high-end sports cars tested that year. Next, up, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne V6.

The Cayenne was redesigned for 2011, and we bought the top-selling model, a V6, to test. With a few options (including the $3,000 eight-speed automatic and $10,000 Premium Plus package), our V6 model cost a princely $63,805. It also came with a start-stop fuel-saving feature that we were eager to try. (Read: "Driving the micro-hybrid Porsche Cayenne with Stop-Start technology.")

It seems that Porsche was inspired by The Biggest Loser television show; our V6 model is a mighty 830 lbs. lighter than the V8 model we tested in 2008. And it's not all due to the smaller engine weighing less. According to the company, the new Cayenne also got slimmer by using "intelligent lightweight construction... which included the development and use of a new lighter-weight four-wheel-drive system."

So, how does the Slim-Fasted Cayenne drive? Take a look at some initial logbook comments:

"Great steering, handling and brake feel."

"Feels a bit more agile than the anvil the last Cayenne was."

"Drives well... like a really expensive [Nissan] Murano."

"Auto stop can be annoying in stop-and-go driving, and it [hesitates] an extra second if you're in a hurry."

"Stalled five times on my way home, and not because of the auto start-stop: when the vehicle is in Park for about a minute, it won't automatically restart."

"The ride is supple and controlled - taut but not stiff like the last Cayenne."

"Engine sounds coarse when pushed and V6 power is little more than adequate."

"Digital speed readout is handy since analog speedo is all but invisible."

"Left-side ignition is still stupid, as is the lack of keyless ignition on a car this costly."

"Many dumb controls... very spread out and complicated."

"It looks like someone just dumped a bucket of switches on the console."

"Door lock button is in the most awkward and out of the way place of any car."

"Hard plastic on steering wheel hub and spoke and dash top looks real cheap."

"Interior dome light is AMAZING! It's like daylight!"

"Finally a set of Porsche seats I'm comfortable in - not too narrow."

As is the case with many high-end cars, we have mixed feelings about some of the latest gizmos and gadgets. The start-stop feature? Thus far, feelings are mixed. At least you can shut it off. The organization and logic of the controls? We think the company could do better. Is it expensive for what you get? Without question. But when the tires meet the pavement, most were impressed with the Cayenne's nice interior and super-smooth eight-speed automatic, as well as the SUV's ride, handling and responsive engine (providing you were already under way).

A comment that came up more than once in the logbook seems to sum up how we feel about this latest Cayenne: "Much nicer to drive than last generation."

—Mike Quincy