1993 Porsche 968 Reviews

You'll find all our 1993 Porsche 968 reviews right here. 1993 Porsche 968 prices range from $14,190 for the 968 Cs to $28,160 for the 968 .

Our reviews offer detailed analysis of the 's features, design, practicality, fuel consumption, engine and transmission, safety, ownership and what it's like to drive.

The most recent reviews sit up the top of the page, but if you're looking for an older model year or shopping for a used car, scroll down to find Porsche dating back as far as 1992.

Or, if you just want to read the latest news about the Porsche 968, you'll find it all here.

Porsche Reviews and News

Forget EVs, these petrol cars are booming
By James Cleary · 09 Apr 2026
Sales of petrol-powered cars are declining in the Australian new vehicle market and the popularity of electric propulsion is on a fuel price-driven tear, but there are some significant models bucking the EV transition trend.According to data from industry statistician VFacts and the Electric Vehicle Council, year-on-year sales of pure-electric vehicles were up 92.1 per cent at the end of the first quarter (34,382 vs 17,901 units) with EV uptake rising by 88.9 per cent in March compared to the same month last year (15,839 vs 8385 units).At the same time, sales of petrol-powered vehicles have decreased by 17.8 per cent YTD (101,147 vs 123,132) and 20.1 per cent for the month of March (34,694 vs 43,784).And it’s worth noting hybrid sales are in line with 2025 so far this year (46,952 vs 47,014), which may be explained by a supply shortage in the first quarter for Toyota’s top-selling RAV4. Plug-in hybrids are up 40.2 per cent (13,715 vs 19,230).But despite oil supply shortages caused by the current conflict in Iran sending the price of petrol through the roof, several conventionally-powered models have seen sales grow strongly so far this year.  Kia’s compact K4 has clearly built a strong following with the sedan arriving here early in 2025 and the hatch version joining it late in the year.From a modest launch base year-on-year sales are up no less than 240.8 per cent (2771 vs 813 units), the sleek 1.6- and 2.0-litre five-seater now standing as the Korean brand’s third-best seller so far in 2026.And Kia’s Seltos small SUV hit a purple patch in March with sales up 13.8 per cent compared to the same month in 2025 (849 vs 746).Mazda’s evergreen CX-5 medium SUV is up 12 per cent YTD (6247 vs 5538), likely winning over Toyota RAV4 prospects unwilling to wait the three to six months it currently takes to put the previous category-leader on your driveway.The CX-5 (6247 units) is now in a mid-size SUV cage fight with the Mitsubishi Outlander (6363 units) for category leadership.On the subject of Mazda, the long-serving fourth-generation version of the Japanese maker’s iconic MX-5 sports car has jumped 34.2 per cent so far this year (196 vs 146) with 90 sold in the month of March compared to just 34 last year (+164.7 per cent). And thumbing your nose at EVs via a roofless petrol-powered car must be a theme because the Mini Convertible is up 202 per cent YTD (103 vs 34 units).Then, despite Porsche taking a hit in sales overall so far in 2026, the latest iteration of its celebrated 911 is up a healthy 182.8 per cent (345 vs 122) YTD. What fuel price increase?
Read the article
Porsche Cayenne Electric 2027 review: International first drive
By John Mahoney · 28 Mar 2026
You really do get what you pay for with the all-new Porsche Cayenne Electric and the more cash you splash the better the large battery-powered SUV gets.Locked in for a quarter three Australian landing, the fourth-generation all-new Cayenne is a natural rival for the Lotus Eletre and the hybrid BMW XM, as well as traditional fast SUVs that include the Range Rover Sport SV and BMW X5 M.Available in three different flavours, even the entry Cayenne Electric ($167,800 plus on-road costs) comes with dual motors that provide all-wheel drive and churn out 325kW of power. The middle-rung Cayenne S ($193,100 plus ORCs) ups that to 490kW, which is plenty for a brisk 0-100km/h of 3.8 seconds but if you can afford it we'd pay even more for the game-changing Turbo model that costs a substantial $259,900 plus on-roads.Delivering an astonishing 850kW and 1500Nm of torque, the Cayenne that shares its PPE platform with the smaller Macan, can rocket from 0-100km/h in just 2.5 seconds making it as quick as the German brand's latest flagship 911 Turbo S coupe and sees it on par with some so-called hypercars.No other SUV, not even the Lotus Eletre (2.95 seconds), comes close to matching the Cayenne Turbo's explosive performance off the line and, remarkably, the big Porsche SUV is no one-trick pony because it also raises the bar for thrills behind the wheel – but only if you tick a few boxes first.To unleash the full potential of the battery-electric SUV you'll need to option both the Active Ride ($17,480) and rear-wheel steering ($3570), although we could probably do without our car’s carbon-ceramic brakes and pocket the $19,520 saving.Frustratingly the Active Ride, that cancels body roll and reduces pitch and drive associated with hard acceleration and braking, isn't available on the base model which is a shame as it transforms the Cayenne into a car that drives like a much smaller, lighter sports car.Highlights include, the accurate and precise steering and a decent ride considering the epic performance on top. The full 850kW power output is only ever available during either launch control or when you stab the 'push-to-pass' button on the rotary drive mode selector on the steering wheel, with 'only' 630kW available at other times, which is more than enough to see off most Ferraris.Back off the pace and the Porsche is surprisingly relaxing, while the ride in its comfiest mode is supple enough to provide a decent impression of something far more luxurious. Just tyre noise caused by the wider rubber intrudes.Off road, the same trick suspension blesses the Cayenne with far more off-road capability, providing better wheel articulation, while the height-adjustable air springs provide up to 245mm of ground clearance.For those who live in the country, Porsche will even offer an Offroad Package ($5230) that adds a revised front and rear bumper for a better approach and departure angle, plus arches and side skirts finished in a more durable black plastic.Towing is up to 3500kg, which is impressive for a fast SUV and on par with the combustion V8 twin-turbocharged Range Rover Sport SV.While some might miss the sound of a combustion engine and find the switch to an EV daunting, Porsche has tried to take the pain out of the ownership experience.Equipped with a large 113kWh battery (net) the base Electric can cover up to 642km, while even the Turbo can still drive up to 624km on the European WLTP test cycle.Run low on juice and a 10-80 per cent charge at up to 400kW takes just 16 minutes, although on a less powerful 400-volt charging post found in Australia that figure drops to around 26 minutes.Later on, post-launch Porsche will roll out its new inductive charging tech that can top up at up to 11kW at 90 per cent efficiency without any of the faff related to plugging in your car when you get home.Even though the Cayenne is just 55mm longer than the current combustion version, the new architecture beneath sees it come with a wheelbase that's almost 130mm longer for more legroom, while headroom in the front and rear is generous and the rear boot offers up to 781 litres of space and is boosted by a decent 90-litre frunk for cables.Upfront the Porsche SUV has one of the best cabins going, marrying plenty of proper physical controls with an intuitive large infotainment system, 14.5-inch digital instrument cluster and a new 14.9-inch passenger display.Other useful additions are a new 3D augmented reality head-up display. For fit and finish the Cayenne is among the very best in its class.Standard kit for Australian models includes 14-way electric heated and ventilated seats, 20-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, a 360-degree camera, park assist, four-zone climate control and a Bose premium sound system.The S version adds 20-inch aero wheels, Matrix LED lamps and a heated steering wheel.Finally, the Turbo adds Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), the Turbo rear motor, larger 21-inch alloy wheels, HD matrix LED lamps, 18-way adaptive seats, a GT sports steering wheel and an uprated Bose surround sound system.
Read the article
Seriously rapid EV SUV range grows in Oz
By James Cleary · 11 Mar 2026
Having launched the pure-electric version of its Cayenne large SUV late last year, Porsche Cars Australia has released details of a new all-wheel drive S Electric model, positioned between the existing entry-grade Electric and top-spec Turbo Electric.Scheduled for arrival in the third quarter of this year, the the Cayenne S Electric is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor on each axle producing 400kW (up to 490kW with launch control) which is a mid-point between the base model’s 325kW and the Turbo’s 630kW (850kW with Launch Control).Claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time is a seriously rapid 3.8 seconds and a 113kWh (gross capacity) drive battery delivers combined cycle (urban/extra-urban) range of 635km (WLTP).With a charging capacity of up to 400kW Porsche says the Cayenne S Electric can be charged from 10-80 per cent in 16 minutes at that rate.And as per the Cayenne Turbo Electric, the Cayenne S Electric uses direct oil cooling for the rear-axle electric motor to dissipate heat directly from the current-carrying components.Car spotters should look out for specific front and rear aprons finished in ‘Volcano Grey Metallic’, body colour on selected inserts and the rear diffuser as well as 20-inch ‘Aero’ rims.2026 Porsche Cayenne pricing2026 Porsche Cayenne S Electric powertrain and efficiencyThe Cayenne S Electric is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor on each axle producing a combined 400kW (up to 490kW with launch control).Combined cycle energy consumption is between 21.7–19.2kWh/100 km with range at 635km (WLTP).2026 Porsche Cayenne S Electric standard featuresAside from included safety tech, standard feature highlights are:20-inch ‘Aero’ alloy wheelsPrivacy glassParking Entry Package (with ‘Surround View’ and ‘Self-Steering ParkAssist’)Digital radioExterior colour - up to and including the ‘Dreams’ range as no-cost options14-way electric comfort seats with memory packageBose ‘Surround Sound System’Panoramic roof systemSeat ventilation (front)Four-zone automatic climate controlOptions:Porsche Torque Vectoring PlusPorsche Active Ride suspensionPorsche Ceramic Composite Brake (with yellow-painted brake callipers)2026 Porsche Cayenne S Electric coloursExterior colour options (standard): WhiteChromite Black MetallicVanadium Grey MetallicCarrara White MetallicDolomite Silver MetallicMystic Green MetallicMadeira Gold MetallicAlgarve Blue MetallicNapali Blue MetallicOptional ($7370):Oak Green Metallic NeoPale Blue MetallicSlate Grey NeoMonteverde MetallicInterior colour options:Partial leather - Black - Black/Chalk BeigeLeather - Black - Black/Lavender - Black/Magnesium Grey - Black/Sage Grey - Black/Bordeaux Red - Black/Chalk Beige - Black/Chalk BeigeSynthetic leather - BlackClub leather - Espresso - Bramble2026 Porsche Cayenne S Electric safetyThe Porsche Cayenne has not been assessed by ANCAP but standard safety features include:‘ParkAssist’ (front and rear) including reversing camera3D Surround View with Active Parking Support (Self-steering Park Assist)Warning and Brake Assist incl. Pedestrian protectionDriver Awareness DetectionLane Change Assist - Blind-spot monitoring and Rear AssistLane Keeping AssistTraffic sign recognitionAirbags - front, front side (thorax), side curtain (covering both rows) and knee airbags for driver and front passenger2026 Porsche Cayenne S Electric warranty and servicingService interval - 12 months / 15,000 kmWarranty - Three years / unlimited km (including paint)Battery warranty - Eight years / 160,000km12-year rust warrantyRoadside assist - Three years2026 Porsche Cayenne S Electric dimensionsLength - 4991mmWidth - 1980mmHeight - 1674mmWheelbase - 3023mm
Read the article
Brutal twin-turbo supercar lands in Oz
By James Cleary · 06 Mar 2026
Porsche Cars Australia has topped its multi-model 911 line-up with the heavy-hitting Turbo S flagship, boasting monstrous hybrid power, stunning dynamic performance and even more sophisticated all-wheel drive technology.Powered by a 3.6-litre, twin-turbo ‘flat’ six-cylinder engine, it produces no less than 523kW (711hp) and 800Nm; enough to propel the Coupe version from 0-100km/h in 2.5 seconds (Cabriolet 2.6sec) and on to a maximum velocity of 322km/h.The all-alloy engine features direct fuel-injection, variable valve timing and integrated dry-sump lubrication, while the electric part of the hybrid equation consists of the twin electric ‘eTurbo’ units (which eliminate turbo lag and serve double duty as generators) and a permanent-magnet synchronous motor integrated into the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.This ‘T-Hybrid’ system is underpinned by a 1.9kWh 400V lithium-ion battery with drive going to all four wheels via a map-controlled multi-plate clutch and the latest iteration of the ‘Porsche Traction Management’ system.Rear-axle steering, ‘Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control’ (active roll stabilisation and enhanced vehicle dynamics), ‘Porsche Stability Management’, ‘Porsche Active Suspension Management’ (electronically variable active damping) and ‘Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus’ (variable electronically controlled rear differential lock with variable torque distribution) also feature.Forged alloy rims are 20-inch front, 21-inch rear, shod with Pirelli P Zero rubber (255/35 fr - 325/30 rr) and brakes are ventilated and perforated carbon-fibre-reinforced ceramic composite discs (420mm x 40mm fr - 410mm x 32mm rr) with 10-piston fixed calipers at the front and four-piston fixed units at the rear.2026 Porsche 911 pricing2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S engine/powertrain and efficiencyPower comes from a 3.6-litre, twin-turbo ‘flat’ six-cylinder engine producing 523kW and 800Nm. Drive is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and multi-plate driveline clutch pack. Combined-cycle (urban/extra-urban) fuel efficiency is 11.8L/100km (Coupe) and 12.0L/100km (Cabriolet). The fuel tank holds 63 litres.2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S standard featuresAside from included safety tech, standard feature highlights are:20-/21-inch ‘Turbo S’ alloy wheelsKeyless entry and startPorsche Connect (includes online navigation with 3D map display)Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlayBose Surround Sound System (with Dolby Atmos)Digital radio12.6-inch curved instrument display‘Sport Chrono’ stopwatch instrument dial and digital tachometer dialAdaptive Cruise controlAdaptive sports seats Plus (electrical 18-way adjust with memory package)Seat heating (front, with three-stage control)Dual-zone climate controlHD-Matrix LED main headlights2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S optional featuresAvailable options include:Burmester Surround Sound System‘Porsche InnoDrive’ (including adaptive cruise control)Sun visors in leatherPedals in aluminiumDoor sill guards in brushed aluminium (black illuminated)Personalised vehicle keys painted with casePersonalised floor matsTwo-tone leather interiorWheels painted in Black (high-gloss)Seat ventilation (front)Electric slide/tilt glass sunroofLifting system front axle‘Exclusive Design’ tail-lightsGear selector in aluminium 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S coloursExterior colour options include: ‘Jet Black Metallic’, ‘Vanadium Grey Metallic’, ‘GT Silver Metallic’, ‘Ice Grey Metallic’, ‘Guards Red’, ‘Carmine Red’, ‘Catagena Yellow Metallic’, ‘Provence’, ‘Lugano Blue’ and ‘Gentian Blue Metallic’Interior colour:Leather interior Black with interior package in ‘Turbonite’Interior package including dashboard, door panel and centre console trim strips in matt Carbon and decorative inlays in ‘Neodyme’ accent colourAccent package including on door opener and panels, gear console and lever, centre console, steering wheel and knurled buttons in TurboniteRoof lining, A- and B-pillar panel upholstered with perforated ‘Race-Tex’ in Black with backing in Turbonite2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S safetyThe Porsche 911 has not been assessed by ANCAP but standard safety features include:‘ParkAssist’ (front and rear) including reversing camera3D Surround View with Active Parking Support (Self-steering Park Assist)Warning and Brake Assist incl. Pedestrian protectionDriver Awareness DetectionLane Change Assist - Blind-spot monitoring and Rear AssistLane Keeping AssistTraffic sign recognitionAirbags for driver and front passenger, front side (thorax) airbags and side curtain airbagsAuto-deploying roll-over protection system2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S warranty and servicingService interval - 12 months / 15,000 kmWarranty - Three years / unlimited km (including paint)12-year rust warranty2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S dimensionsLength - 4551mmWidth - 1900mmHeight - 1305mm (Coupe) / 1304mm (Cabriolet)Wheelbase - 2450mm
Read the article
Porsche’s unique 75th anniversary gift
By James Cleary · 05 Mar 2026
Porsche Cars Australia has used the four points of the compass as inspiration for a quartet of one-off, uniquely-themed vehicles to celebrate the iconic German brand’s 75 years in the local market.The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, Macan 4S, Taycan 4S Cross Turismo and Cayenne S have been designed to reflect the country’s diverse colours and landscapes.The ‘Go North’ Panamera 4 E-Hybrid is finished in ‘Emerald Green Metallic’ to reflect the lush vegetation of Australia’s tropical north with 21-inch ‘Exclusive Design’ rims finished in ‘Neodyme’ (satin gold), and the car’s ‘Espresso’ leather interior representing the region’s contrasting earth tones.Next, the ‘Go East’ Taycan 4S Cross Turismo in ‘Ipanema Blue Metallic’ is a nod to the ocean and coastal surf culture, with 21-inch Exclusive Design wheels in ‘Crayon’ (soft grey) and two-tone black/Crayon leather interior (with ‘Speed Blue’ highlights) representing marine life, coral formations and sandy beaches.Then, the ‘Go South’ Macan 4S’ ‘Gold Bronze Metallic’ finish, 22-inch ‘Vesuvius Grey’ ‘RS Spyder Design’ wheels and black/Chalk extended leather interior reference South Australia’s Limestone Coast and the dolerite sea columns of Tasmania’s southern Tasman Peninsula.Finally, the ‘Go West Cayenne S’ in ‘Ipanema Brown’ with 22-inch ‘Black silk-gloss’ rims and ‘Bordeaux Red’ seat centres echo natural formations, indigenous artworks and the Outback’s deep red colours. Each commemorative car features bespoke items including a ‘75 Years of Porsche in Australia’ key painted to match its exterior colour, illuminated door sill guards customised with each vehicle’s directional theme as well as embossed floor mats. But these cars may not be unique for long because speaking at their unveiling during this year’s Australian Formula One Grand Prix weekend, Porsche Cars Australia CEO and Managing Director Daniel Schmollinger said: “These four cars align timeless Porsche design with regional identity, culture, lifestyle and purpose.“And best of all, they are available for any of our customers to replicate using the Porsche online car configurator.” In marking 75 years in Australia, Porsche references a “chance encounter” when Australian Norman Hamilton, in Europe to investigate pump technology for the construction of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, was overtaken by a silver sports car while driving across Austria‘s famously twisting Grossglockner Pass. The car was a Porsche development prototype driven by German race ace Richard von Frankenberg. Stopped at the same inn in the next village he and Hamilton struck up a conversation, which led to Hamilton meeting Ferdinand Porsche. A vehicle distribution deal followed with the first two Australian-market Porsche 356s shipped to Melbourne in 1951, one of the earliest export arrangements in the brand’s 78 years as a carmaker.
Read the article
Big brands facing hefty fines in Australia
By Jack Quick · 28 Feb 2026
A number of popular car brands in Australia are at risk of paying fines in excess of $10 million for not meeting tightening emission standards if they don’t correct course quickly.
Read the article
Audi committed to electric new-age TT
By Laura Berry · 18 Feb 2026
Audi’s global CEO has reassured employees and fans of the brand that its electric successor to the Audi TT will go ahead.
Read the article
Why these luxury cars might get cheaper
By Tim Gibson · 17 Feb 2026
Australia’s free trade agreement with the European Union (EU) appears to be only a matter of time, according to reports and it could have some serious implications for the domestic car industry. The Luxury Car Tax (LCT), which has been in place for more than 25 years, has been one of many key points of discussion in negotiations with the EU. A new car imported from another country that exceeds a fuel efficiency of 3.5L/100km is subject to a 33 per cent tax on every dollar more than $80,567 in price. For vehicles with fuel efficiency 3.5L/100km or less, the tax does not kick in until $91,387. While European luxury vehicles are impacted by many other factors that contribute to their higher prices, such as import costs to Australia and other fees and taxes, the LCT is a significant component of its price. European luxury cars in Australia are priced at a significantly higher point compared to other markets. Removal of the LCT could increase the affordability of cars from major manufacturers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, as well as many models under the Volkswagen banner.The LCT was originally designed to protect Australia’s domestic car manufacturing industry from imported alternatives, but Australia stopped producing cars in 2017.It is worth more than $1 billion to the Federal Government each year, with European manufacturers a large contributor, meaning its abolition for Europe brands would need to be enticing.Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell and the EU commissioner's joint statement said talks were “constructive and positive”, allowing “the two sides to converge positions on a range of issues.”"Good progress was achieved in narrowing gaps on a small number of outstanding matters," the statement read. Whether the future of the LCT was one of those issues is unknown but the continued rumours regarding the potential for its abolition indicate the agreement is working towards that end. 
Read the article
Cars that cause road rage | Opinion
By Laura Berry · 16 Feb 2026
Road rage is such an ugly part of driving, but the type of car you own could be a magnet for bullies. Having driven thousands of cars over 15 years of testing, here are three of the best cars I think will help you avoid the wrath of other drivers and three that might attract more hate when on the road.Your guess is as good as mine as to why whenever I drive a D-Max ute I get treated with so much respect despite probably doing things that’d get me honked at in other cars. Honestly, all utes command respect, patience and better treatment from other motorists, but maybe it’s the less glitzy and more down to earth rural appeal of the D-Max that makes it one of the best cars to drive if you want others to cut you a bit more slack.On the flip side its ute drivers I find to be the most aggressive out there — this is all anecdotal of course, but I’m sure there are many out there who will back me up. So perhaps a wariness of utes drivers and not a respect for hardworking tradies is why they’re treated better.Perhaps it's because police forces all over Australia use the Kia Sorento to chase baddies or it could be that this large SUV just looks tough. Whatever the reason, if you want other drivers to let you merge into their lane this is your car.The Sorento is large and pretty menacing looking from the front and back. But then so too are lots of SUVs, but what I think what wins over other drivers is the Kia badge. It's a brand that’s established itself at a grass roots level in Australian sport and community. It’s more aspirational than Toyota, but still not pretentious.I should point out that Toyota Klugers also command respect, so too do other large SUVs, like the Mazda CX-90 and the Ford Everest.  The Volkswagen Multivan looks like a toaster, only five metres long and two metres tall. And while the sheer size of it makes other road users think twice about cutting one off in traffic, it's more than that. I think it's actually connected to the iconic Kombi van and the good feelings that van conjures. You know we grow up excited to see Kombis as kids, which still hits us with a sense of “awww” even now as adults when we see a van with a VW badge. The good treatment isn’t restricted to Volkswagen Multivans, all vans are treated incredibly well despite many of them carrying out manoeuvres that defy logic, like double parking, spontaneous U-turns and driving slow while searching for an address. And that’s because we know most vans are delivery trucks on a mission and the bad driving is not down to incompetence … most of the time.I’ve picked the Porsche 911 mainly because it’s one of the cars I’ve received the worst treatment in continually but I’ve found this goes for any high-end sports car.Perhaps it’s the sight of an expensive sports car that brings out some jealousy in other drivers but I’ve never been tailgated more by other drivers than when in an expensive sports car. As for being let into traffic — that’s also a problem.This behaviour, like all road rage, is dangerous and does nothing more than reduce safety and cause stress, unnecessarily.The Suzuki Swift is great in many ways — just not how some people treat you when you’re driving it. This seems to be a problem with most small cars and I can’t help but think that there are some drivers who assume the person in the Swift is young and inexperienced. Yep there is definitely some kind of automotive pecking order out there on the road and I can be in a ute I’m testing and then move into a small car and suddenly be honked for not moving the instant a traffic light turns green.If other motorists are ‘punching down’ on young drivers then this is a huge concern that could put the inexperienced under too much pressure and lead to a life-threatening mistake.Car reviewers joke that the answer to, “what car should I buy?”, is always “Toyota Camry’ because the value for money, reliability and comfort equation is almost impossible to match. But when behind the wheel of a Camry I’ve found I’m treated in much the same way as a small car, with other drivers seemingly becoming impatient and wanting to overtake rather than sit behind me.I can only speculate as to the reason but perhaps other drivers might think Camry drivers are older and in less of a hurry, or maybe that the person behind the wheel is a rideshare driver that could stop suddenly to let a fare out.Whatever the reason, road ragers should beware that  Australia’s police forces use unmarked Camrys and so the next one you bully, could land you a ticket.   
Read the article
Best premium medium SUV under $130K announced
By Byron Mathioudakis · 06 Feb 2026
With so many new and updated premium medium-sized SUVs starting from under $130K in Australia nowadays, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer choice available.And that goes for the judges here at CarsGuide as well as potential buyers, because even though our shortlist included models as varied and intriguing as the all-electric Audi Q4 e-tron from Germany, South Korea’s Genesis GV70 in turbo and EV guises, and petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid Lexus NX from Japan, our shortlist proved to be a hotly-contested and surprisingly-emotional process. There is so much that’s great in this category!Here, then, are the finalists in alphabetical order, followed by our number one, because there can be only one winner.The latest, and highly impressive, BMW X3 has ended up as a runner up for CarsGuide’s best premium medium SUV under $130K.Four generations in, the X3 has shaped up as a winner, both in the eyes of the judges as well as on the sales charts.It’s easy to see why, with surprisingly sharp pricing – particularly at the lower end of the range – reflecting the edgy yet attractive styling inside and out.Of course, the panel also responded to the X3’s interesting array of hybridised petrol and diesel options, along with the very in-vogue plug-in hybrid (PHEV) choice. Whichever you choose, the driving experience is equally on-point.As one of its core sellers, BMW has given its mid-sized SUV the best-possible chance of success on our market. As Jack Quick put it: “Number one for me by far is the X3. I friggin’ love it… it stands out as a winner.”The latest Macan looks like its super-successful predecessor, is electric only and costs more than most people can afford, but the Porsche’s sheer excellence cannot be ignored.“Genuinely rewrites the formula for Porsche SUVs… it’s a really big swing for the fences.”In a nutshell, this comment from CarsGuide Contributing Journalist Andrew Chesterton neatly sums up what may well be the greatest luxury-branded SUV on the planet right now.Even putting aside the Macan’s obvious controversial aspects, there is so much that will resonate with luxury car buyers, meaning that Porsche has exceeded the brief in most areas.Bold, sculptured design, bank-vault build quality, a deeply sensory-enhancing cabin environment and, not least of all, tremendous dynamic capabilities that simultaneously calm and excite are all part of the latest version’s electrifying experience.Boasting cutting-edge technologies, underpinned by a super-advanced, 800-volt architecture for ultra-fast charging, no other electric SUV feels quite like the latest Macan.The judges certainly see it. But, can enough buyers look past the lack of internal combustion engine choice (for now) and substantially higher pricing compared to before? The jury’s still out on those ones.“From top to bottom it’s an excellent range. I’ve had every car in that line-up. The thing that makes it special is the N. When you've got Porsche chasing you down trying to replicate you, that means a lot.”CarsGuide's News Editor Dom Tripolone sure knows a great headline as well as a great car when he sees one, providing the fitting words for what remains one of the defining models of the 2020s, the Ioniq 5.Recent price hikes that have accompanied technological boosts only serve to highlight the outstanding engineering quality emanating from the Hyundai, particularly when it has already spent half a decade setting class standards. This is a rare example of something that was priced too cheaply for what it can deliver.Timelessly chic, the retro-inspired styling seems to live in a bubble of its own, underplaying a shockingly accommodating interior that has inspired scores of imitators over the intervening years.Yet it is the way the Ioniq 5 drives and feels that truly keeps it fresh. Benign when required, the chassis steps up with impressive agility and control, while retaining the sort of calm and composure expected but often lacking in luxury SUVs costing thrice the price.And, in keeping with its flagship status, the high-performance Ioniq 5 N adds a sizzling new chapter in the book of scorching-hot hatches. As our News Editor so adroitly observed. A worthy winner in the sub-$130K medium SUV segment.
Read the article