7 Best Porsche Models According to TrueCar
It’s been nearly nine decades since Porsche rolled out its first car, the Porsche 64. Since then, the luxury car manufacturer has become a staple of high-performance coupes, sedans, and SUVs. Porsche was even named the best luxury car brand of 2022, and for good reasons. The German brand’s models combine luxury, power, and handling across multiple segments. Here’s how TrueCar ranks the best Porsche models for 2022.
1. 2022 Porsche Cayenne
- MSRP: $70,350
The 2022 Porsche Cayenne tops TrueCar’s list of the best Porsche models. The midsize SUV is going on 20 years on the North American market and is made for performance.
The Cayenne has something for everyone, offering 10 trim levels. The standard Cayenne SUV packs a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. It gets 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, and all-wheel drive is standard on all models. There are multiple hybrid options in other trims, but those come at a higher price.
TrueCar reviewers say the Cayenne’s cabin is opulent and well designed with high-end materials. The new SUV doesn’t provide the same amount of cargo space as competitors such as the Genesis GV80 and Volvo XC90. Nor does it sit at the same price point as other luxury midsize SUVs like the Lexus RX and Acura MDX.
However, the 2022 Cayenne combines luxury and performance into one exciting vehicle. It offers thrills behind the wheel and enough room for multiple passengers and cargo. Those attributes make this Porsche model suitable for families or businesses looking for a company car.
2. 2022 Porsche 911
- MSRP: $102,550
The iconic Porsche 911 landed in the second spot on TrueCar’s list of the best Porsche models. This year’s 911 offers a dozen trim options to choose from in targa, coupe, and convertible configurations.
The standard 911 model, the Carrera, has a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine making 379 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. But some models offer much more power. For instance, the Turbo S, with a turbocharged 3.8-liter six-cylinder, harnesses 640 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.
Every new 911 comes with Porsche’s dual-clutch PDK system. It’s arguably one of the best dual-clutch systems on the market. A seven-speed manual gearbox is also available in the Carrera S, Targa 4S, and GTS.
TrueCar calls the 911 a spectacular drive with plenty of options for drivers, though the model lacks storage and standard features compared to competitors. But Edmunds calls the 911 the standardbearer for the luxury sports coupe class, giving an impeccable driving experience. This model is a classic sports car made for driving rather than utility.
3. 2022 Porsche Panamera
- MSRP: $89,750
Porsche’s four-door sedan, the Panamera, takes much of the 911’s driving experience and packages it in a bigger body. Four adults can sit comfortably and enjoy the ride in a Panamera.
Though it weighs nearly 1,000 pounds more than the 911, the Panamera uses tuned suspension and powerful engines to keep the same feel. The base turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 makes 325 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. But with 11 trim levels, you can get up to 690 hp and 641 lb-ft of torque on the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid.
With hatchback and wagon styles available, the Panamera provides options for those looking for more cargo space, too. Those options mean the Panamera can be a sports car, luxury car, or family car whenever you need it.
4. 2022 Porsche Macan
- MSRP: $56,250
Porsche’s small SUV, the Macan, builds on much of what makes the Cayenne so popular. In fact, Edmunds calls the Macan the world’s best-handling SUV, and two of them are sold for every 911.
The automaker upgraded the Macan for 2022. Its three trims — the base model, S, and GTS — all got a bump in power. The standard model’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder now makes 261 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Like the Cayenne, all trims come with all-wheel drive.
All of that power and superb handling mean a higher price than other small SUVs. The Macan also has less cargo capacity than competitors like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. But the build quality in this Porsche model is exceptional, and the ride is comfortable for front-seat occupants.
The Macan shines as another family vehicle with plenty of space but at a lower price than the Cayenne.
5. 2022 Porsche Taycan
- MSRP: $84,050
The Taycan is Porsche’s first all-electric regular-production model, slotting in size between the 911 and the Panamera. Buyers can choose from six trim levels, including a wagon body style. The base Taycan’s 300kW electric motor pushes out 321 hp.
Keeping in line with the other vehicles on TrueCar’s list of the best Porsche models, the Taycan offers an exciting drive. It provides a comfortable and luxurious ride like the Panamera.
However, the Taycan’s biggest drawback is its range. Its estimated 200 miles on a full charge is much lower than competitors like the Tesla Model S. But every Taycan boasts Porsche’s rapid-charging system to compensate. Using an appropriate fast charger, the Taycan can recharge 75% in just 22 minutes. It’s a useful option for those looking for a luxurious electric sedan offering a better driving experience than the Model S.
6. 2022 Porsche 718 Boxster
- MSRP: $63,950
The 718 is Porsche’s entry-level roadster, and the Boxster is the convertible option. With six trim levels to choose from, the 718 Boxster is one of the purest sports cars on the market, TrueCar says. The site also calls the car one of the best Porsche models you can buy.
The standard trim comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder pushing out 300 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque that gets a combined 20 mpg. Like the other Porsche vehicles on this list, the 718 Boxster handles well, making for an enjoyable driving experience.
However, the Boxster doesn’t offer much cargo space (only 9.6 cubic feet total) or standard features. Buyers can get driver’s aids like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, but those options cost extra. Like the 911, the 718 Boxster is made for the driving experience — but for a much lower price.
7. 2022 Porsche 718 Cayman
- MSRP: $61,850
The 2022 Porsche 718 Cayman is the hard-top option of the 718, offering five trim levels. The base is the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as in the 718 Boxster, as is the impressive driving experience.
TrueCar calls the 718 Cayman a quintessential sports car with strong performance and plenty of customizable options. It also calls it one of the best Porsche models.
However, it also costs much more than rivals such as the Toyota GR Supra, and like the 718 Boxster, it offers little storage. But competitors with more room likely won’t offer the same thrills you get from driving the 718 Cayman.
What do we think is the best Porsche model?
Taking into account price, driving experience, and utility, we believe the Macan is the best Porsche model. With five seats and some of the best handling in the SUV segment, the Macan can please both the driving enthusiast and the family needing room for kids.
Yes, other Porsche models are more powerful, bigger, or greener. But for nearly half the price of a 911, the Macan provides plenty in its three trims. Those benefits are reflected in sales, too: the Macan is Porsche’s best-selling vehicle.
