Porsche Cayenne Diesel vs BMW X6

A sporty SUV sounds like a bit of a contradiction in terms – but that hasn’t stopped the concept from becoming a huge success. The very idea of a Porsche off-roader got enthusiasts hot under the collar when the Cayenne first arrived in 2002, yet mixing the genes of a sports car with an SUV turned out to be a master stroke.

Despite its 911-on-stilts styling, the Cayenne proved a sales smash. That was seven years ago, and with emissions-based taxation, high fuel prices and environmental concerns, bosses have prepared yet another shock for die-hard fans of the famous brand. Will a diesel Porsche push the purists over the limit?

For its first-ever oil-burner, the firm has played it relatively safe by using the proven 3.0-litre V6 TDI found in the VW Touareg and Audi Q7. When it comes to blending diesel power with sporty driving, however, one manufacturer reigns supreme: BMW. Oil-burning engines power some of its most desirable models, including this bold X6.

While the more conventional X5 is the practical choice, the coupé-shaped 4x4 has the stand-out desirability to draw customers into showrooms. We put the two models side-by-side to see if Porsche has got the diesel formula right first time...