Buying a brand-new Cayenne means shelling out some big bucks. But the Porsche SUV is significantly more affordable once you start browsing the used market. And not only do you save some cash, but a used Porsche Cayenne is more capable—and reliable—than some people realize. The 2013 Porsche Cayenne currently listed on Cars & Bids, though, offers something else: a manual.

The 958 Porsche Cayenne kept the luxury SUV’s manual alive

You heard right: once upon a time, the Porsche Cayenne offered a manual transmission. Although the current third-gen model is automatic-only, the first two Cayenne generations had stick-shift options. However, it was a significantly rarer option on the second-gen ‘958’ model, Autotrader explains. That’s because while the first-gen ‘955/957’ Porsche Cayenne offered the manual with the V6 or V8, the 958 manual was V6-only.

Still, although down on power, the 958 Porsche Cayenne manual is part of the generation that won MotorTrend’s 2011 SUV of the Year. Compared to the first-gen Cayenne, the 958 is lighter and handles better without giving up much capability. And despite its corner-carving competency, it’s still comfortable enough to use on the daily.

Plus, a 958 Porsche Cayenne manual isn’t necessarily slow. Under its hood is a 3.6-liter V6 rated at 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque linked to a standard AWD system. While the automatic version makes identical power, the six-speed manual is faster. The 2013 Porsche Cayenne manual goes 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds, roughly 0.5 seconds faster than the automatic, Driving.ca notes.

In addition, while the 958 Porsche Cayenne manual was the base model, it still offered some luxury and performance features, MT reports. Standard features include four-wheel disc brakes, a climate-controlled glovebox, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, heated side mirrors, and a power tailgate. And even without optional extras, the interior “feels worthy of every penny you pay for it,” Driving.ca says.

There’s a 2013 model available on Cars & Bids

The 2013 Porsche Cayenne manual currently listed on Cars & Bids has quite a few more features than that, though. It has a Bose audio system, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and rain-sensing wipers. Plus, it has the Convenience Package, which bundles adaptive bi-xenon headlights, navigation, a sunroof, and auto-dimming mirrors.

This 2013 Porsche Cayenne manual is also fairly stock. The only modifications are 19” Cayenne Turbo wheels with Pirelli tires. However, the seller indicates they will provide the stock 18” wheels with the sale. And the SUV has just under 88,200 miles on the clock.

Admittedly, this 2013 Porsche Cayenne isn’t perfect. It has some scratches, scuffs, and creases scattered around the exterior and interior. And the Carfax report states it suffered some “’very minor damage’” to the rear bumper, which was repainted. Plus, the 19” wheels don’t have TPMS sensors, so the TPMS dash light is currently illuminated. But it does have service records and recently underwent an oil change and multi-point inspection.

A used Porsche Cayenne V6 manual is a true bargain reliable luxury SUV rarity

As of this writing, this 2013 Porsche Cayenne is listed on Cars & Bids at $18,500 with three days left in the auction. Considering its condition and rarity, that’s a below-average price. The cheapest sub-100,000-mile example found on Autotrader as of this writing cost over $8000 more.

To be fair, some affordable used Porsche Cayennes can become expensive nightmares. However, most Cayenne issues stem from first-gen and V8-equipped cars. This 2013 example falls into neither category; and, it lacks both complicated electronics and air suspension. Plus, the 3.6-liter VR6 V6 is one of the most reliable used Porsche engines.

In short, this 2013 Cayenne has the potential to be a rare reliable sporty luxury SUV bargain.

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