Porsche has announced changes to the Cayenne SUV range with a new GTS model and a new entry-level version both scheduled to debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show.
The Porsche Cayenne GTS runs a high performance version of the bi-turbo 3.6-litre V6 engine which, with 328kW/600Nm, is up by 15kW/85Nm on the outgoing naturally-aspirated V8 but more fuel efficient by up to 0.9l/100kms.
It’s also faster zero to 100km/h than the V8 (5.1 seconds with Sport Chrono package or 5.2 seconds in standard form).
Sure the V8 burble is gone, but a sports exhaust ensures the new Porsche Cayenne GTS sound the part.
On the styling front the Porsche Cayenne GTS runs the front-end from the Turbo model (complete with large air intakes), the Sport Design package (flared wheel arches and more contoured side sills), roof spoiler and lots of black highlights – including the 20-inch RS Spyder design wheels.
Inside is the GTS package including instruments, sports seats in leather/Alcantara and contrast-colour seat belts.
Underneath the Porsche Cayenne GTS sits 24mm lower in standard form (20mm lower if fitted with air suspension) and runs the Porsche Active Suspension management (PASM) dampers and the brakes from the Turbo model.
At the other end of the scale, the new entry-level Porsche Cayenne runs a 223kW naturally-aspirated 3.6-litre V6 engine driving through a new eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission.
So, for zero to 100km/h you can chalk-up 7.7 seconds for the standard model or 7.6 seconds if fitted with the Sport Chrono package –aorunf 0.2 seconds faster than the superseded model.
And with combined cycle fuel consumption rated at 9.2l/100kms, the new Porsche Cayenne is also more efficient than its predecessor.
No word yet from Porsche Cars Australia on local plans – or when www.carshowroom.com.au will be driving the latest Cayenne models!
