In model year 2003, Porsche launched its first fully offroad vehicle – the Porsche Cayenne. Initially, the Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo were the only model variants available.

The standard SUV bodyshell was made of fully galvanized sheet steel. Four large doors made it possible to easily access the five seats. Around 19 cubic feet (540 liters) of luggage could be stowed in the SUV. With the rear seats folded down, the loading volume could be extended to up to 41 cubic feet (1,170 liters).