In a story we posted earlier this week -- it was a Dan Neil automotive review -- we noticed something else lurking in the story we had to address.
Not only did Neil really point out how pointless diesel autos have become in the domestic, U.S. market, due to diesel technology's higher price point and the price premium on diesel fuel, but he made an interesting point in his story:
Read the earlier story here.
My biggest problem with the Cayenne Diesel is its provenance. I think a diesel SUV with 240 hp, sharing its powertrain in most respects with corporate cousins Audi Q7 and VW Touareg TDI, is below the line for Porsche, brand-wise. Such a vehicle lacks authenticity, and the performance lacks the minimal frisson one must associate with Porsche. In its quest to become the world's largest car company, VW Group must not allow Porsche to be drawn into the badge-engineering vortex.
But this leaves the Agents in a bit of a quandary:
Do buyer's REALLY care about the vehicle's internals OR the vehicle's badge?
Considering the sales of entry-level, V6 Porsche Cayennes over the years, I think it's pretty obvious that consumer's aren't overly concerned with where the powertrain is sourced. They want the look, driving dynamics and sweet Panamera-inspired interior.
What say you, Spies?