Originally Posted by WFBlue

Configuration:
2012 Cayenne S:
-Classic Silver Metallic – Standard Interior in Black
-Air Suspension with PASM
-19” Turbo Wheel
-Panorama Roof System
-Premium Package Plus (with all the goodies that go with)
-Bose Audio Package
-LED Rear Lights Tinted Black with adaptive break lights
-Deletion of model designation
-Compass Display on Instrument Panel
-Voice Control
-Exterior Package in high gloss black
-Porsche entry and Drive
-Heated Three Spoke MF Wheel
***
MSRP: $84,695
Paid: Invoice plus $5,000. Should be in the $80k range
Delivery: build should be complete just before Porsche’s August production closing; I believe they call it “going on holiday” across the pond. Might have it mid September unless the difficulties in Japan affect the rear camera production.

Notes:
-Attempted to add black headlights, but you cannot do this without buying each individual item of the packages separately since the black headlights are in the Convenience Package (first package). To get everything in the PP Plus would be almost double the cost. Thanks Porsche.
-Elected not to wait for the Sport Design Package (available for order in August), because I could not justify paying Porsche $5K to paint a few additional sections of the vehicle ( every man has his limits). I might have it done later myself if I can’t live with the black plastic.
-Decided against the white dials because they looked quite busy in person; all of the lighted notifications are visible at all times.
-Considered full leather option (W00t’s photos/description tempted me severely), but decided that you have to stop somewhere.
-Also tempted by the 18 way seats, but too nervous about the bolsters getting in the way and wear issues.

For those who have PM’d me about pricing in NC, my SA told me that Porsche has proscribed the out of state sale of Cayenne’s (and only Cayenne’s) because of the overseas exportation problem. Apparently, the profit is so high that there is a thriving export business; there have been instances of individuals driving up the east coast and attempting to buy Cayenne’s at each dealership for ultimate sale in China, etc. The profit is apparently (or allegedly, take your pick) over $30K per vehicle. I asked whether the prohibition is in effect for other states than NC, and he confirmed that it is, but you might want to check with your local dealer. I am not sure what to make of it, but there it is.

Others vehicles considered:
-BMW X5 50i: perfectly nice vehicle. Good performance, nice engine sound. Interior is a major let down, even with all the electronic goodies, including some the CS doesn’t have (top down camera, etc). Moreover, I own a 335 hard-top convertible and loathe the idrive system even in its updated configuration.
-Mercedes ML550: already own a GL (will be wife’s) and I find the interior “meh” (or maybe I am bored with it). I also didn’t think the performance was comparable.
-Audi Q5: not event in the same league as the CS in terms of interior and finish quality, though I acknowledge not equally priced as well. You do generally get what you pay for.
-Audi A7: This was a close call. Beautiful vehicle, inside and out and a great performance from a v6 engine (I believe). I thought both the front and rear seats were not very comfortable, however, and ultimately decided I wanted to stay in an SUV, though the CS is much more than that.

To those who have come before, thank you for your invaluable information which helped me to make many complicated choices. To those yet to come, I am happy to share any details of the ordering process, pricing, etc. Now the wait begins.