Porsche is introducing the third generation of the brand’s successful SUV. A completely new development from the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer, the Cayenne combines typical Porsche performance with excellent everyday practicality. Powerful turbo engines, a new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox and new chassis systems, alongside innovative display and control concept with increased connectivity take both sportiness and comfort to a next level. At market launch, there are two newly developed six-cylinder engines to choose from: The Cayenne’s 340 hp (250-kW), three-litre turbo engine delivers 40 hp (29 kW) more than the previous model. The 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine in the Cayenne S, which reaches speeds of up to 265 km/h, brings it up to 440 hp (324 kW) – an increase of 20 hp (15 kW). Equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the new Cayenne S accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in less than five seconds.
Based on the iconic 911 sports car, the brand’s SUV has been enhanced visually and features mixed tyres, as well as rear-axle steering for the first time. On-road capabilities of the model are also further improved thanks to active all-wheel drive as standard, Porsche 4D Chassis Control, three-chamber air suspension and the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) electronic roll stabilisation system. Despite its significantly extended range of standard equipment, the Cayenne S weighs up to 65 kilograms less than its predecessor and remains perfectly suited to off-road use.
Dynamic design language: firmer design and larger wheels
The appearance of the Cayenne has been further enhanced in line with the Porsche Design DNA. The enlarged air intakes at the front are clear indicators of the increased performance. Meanwhile, the new horizontal light edges result in the SUV appearing wider and more athletic, even when stationary. The vehicle’s exterior length has increased by 63 millimetres, without any change to the wheelbase (2,895 millimetres). Whereas, the roof height has been reduced by nine millimetres (compared to its predecessor). The Cayenne is 4,918 millimetres in length and 1,983 millimetres in width (excluding mirrors), creating a noticeably enhanced elegant and streamlined silhouette. The luggage compartment volume has been increased by 100 litres and now offers 770 litres capacity. The wheels are one inch larger in diameter, with wider tyres on the rear axle for the first time, emphasising the improved driving dynamics. The iconic Porsche lettering spans across the redesigned rear lights, which feature a three-dimensional design and end-to-end narrow strip of LEDs.
As standard, every Cayenne is fitted with LED headlights, combined with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). This offers a variety of light modes such as cornering light and motorway light. LED main headlights with matrix beam including PDLS Plus, is the new top system available as an option. With this system, variable light distribution and intensity are enabled by 84 individually activated light-emitting diodes. This results in the Cayenne offering new functions such as high beam that does not glare opposing traffic, as well as adaptive sign glare control.
Cayenne and Cayenne S market launch
The new Porsche SUV is launching in two variants: Firstly, the Cayenne with a six-cylinder turbo engine and displacement of three litres, delivers 340 hp (250 kW) as well as developing 450 Nm of torque. This all results in a zero to 100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds (5.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package) and a top speed of 245 km/h. The second model to launch is the Cayenne S. Driven by a newly developed 2.9-litre V6 engine with twin turbocharging, this model delivers 440 hp (324 kW) – 20 hp (15 kW) more than its predecessor. The vehicle achieves 550 Nm of torque and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds (4.9 seconds with Sport Chrono Package) and has a maximum speed of 265 km/h.
Faster on the road, even more impressive on rough terrain: Tiptronic S and PTM
The Cayenne’s expanded range of improved performance and comfort, is due in no small part to the new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox. Shorter response times and sportier ratios in the lower gears enhance both on-road performance and off-road capability. At the other end of the spectrum, the long-transmission eighth gear ensures low torques, optimised fuel consumption and relaxed driving.
On rough terrain, off-road modes make it easy for the driver to select the right setup for their journey. The SUV’s default setting is the Onroad programme, however, four other modes activate the conditioning for mild off-road terrain: Mud, Gravel, Sand or Rocks. The drive, chassis and differential locks can be selected to adapt to the relevant scenario. For power distribution, Porsche utilises the active all-wheel drive in all Cayenne models. The intelligent, fully variable Porsche Traction Management (PTM) distributes the driving force between the drive axles. Its hang-on concept is a key principle for the excellent sporting performance of the Cayenne. At the same time, it fulfils all requirements for extensive traction on non-tarmac terrain.
Following the 911: lightweight chassis with mixed tyres
The new Cayenne combines three chassis concepts in one new design: sports car, off-roader and touring car. To achieve this, Porsche developed a new lightweight chassis base, with a front axle featuring a separated link design and a multi-link rear axle. Mixed tyres which are now on wheels of at least 19 inches, are a characteristic sports car feature applied to the new models – improving stability and driving dynamics on bends. Porsche offers wheel sizes of up to 21 inches as an option for the Cayenne.
New developments: rear-axle steering, air suspension, roll stabilisation
Providing the optimal basis for the active chassis systems, which are analysed and synchronised is the integrated Porsche 4D Chassis Control system. The system works in real time, optimising handling even further. With the exception of the active PASM damper system (as standard with the Cayenne S), all other chassis systems are new developments. For the first time, the Cayenne is available with electric rear-axle steering – a system tried and tested both in the 911 and the Panamera – improving agility on bends and stability when changing lanes at high speeds. The reduced turning circle also makes every day handling of the SUV easier.
The adaptive air suspension (standard in the Cayenne S) with new three-chamber technology significantly increases the spread between a sporty, firm connection and the driving comfort expected of a touring car. Just as before, the system enables adjustments to the ground clearance on rough terrain. With the optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilisation, sporty drivers benefit by changing from a hydraulic to an electric system. This switch is made possible by a powerful 48-volt vehicle electrical system. Shorter response times enable even more precision in the driving dynamics – and even more comfort on moderate drives.
World première: Porsche Surface Coated Brake with tungsten-carbide layer
With its innovative Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB), the sports car manufacturer is once again assuming a pioneering role in the development of high-performance brakes. This world first is available as an option for all Cayenne models and consists of a cast-iron disc with a tungsten-carbide coating. This finish increases the friction values, whilst reducing brake dust and wear. Exclusive to Porsche, the brakes are also visually impressive, with callipers painted in white, while the surface of the discs develops a unique gloss level after bedding-in. The PSCB is only available in combination with the 20-inch or 21-inch wheels, meanwhile PCCB ceramic brakes remain the top system in the range.
New Sport Chrono Package with PSM Sport
The new Cayenne offers even more potential when it comes to sporty performance. Porsche has redeveloped the Sport Chrono Package based on the model of the sports car, with the Mode button on the steering wheel, a clear indicator of this approach. As well as the Normal, Sport and Sport Plus driving modes, the driver can select an individually configurable mode. Pressing the Sport Response button in the centre activates the engine and transmission maps, which are calibrated for maximum performance. The Sport Chrono Package also includes a separate PSM Sport mode, in which the driver can utilise the new Cayenne’s full driving dynamics.
Reduced weight means lower fuel consumption and even more driving pleasure
Sports cars need a lightweight construction, so similarly to the 911 and the Panamera, the new body of the Cayenne also uses an intelligent combination of alloy and steel. The exterior is made entirely of aluminium, the floorpan assembly, front section and virtually all the chassis components are manufactured from alloy. One particular technical highlight is the innovative lithium-ion polymer starter battery, which alone accounts for a weight saving of 10 kilograms over the predecessor model. In total, the weight of the Cayenne when empty has been reduced from 2,040 to 1,985 kilograms – in spite of the significantly extended range of standard equipment such as LED main headlights with PDLS, larger wheels, ParkAssist (front and rear), an LTE telephone module, Porsche Connect services and anticipatory pedestrian protection.
Digital evolution: Porsche Advanced Cockpit and new PCM
With this new generation, the Cayenne is writing the next chapter in the relationship between driver and vehicle. The Porsche Advanced Cockpit is fully integrated into the sporty, luxurious atmosphere. At the heart of the new display and control concept is a 12.3-inch full-HD touchscreen from the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM), launched last year with the new Panamera. A range of digital functions can be operated intuitively – including by voice control. The standard Porsche Connect Plus allows access to online services and the Internet, as well as navigation.
The analogue controls on the new centre console are focused on the main functions of the vehicle. Other buttons are harmoniously integrated into the smartphone-like touch surface, which produces acoustic and haptic feedback when operated. In typical Porsche style, the driver has a central analogue tachometer, flanked by two 7-inch full-HD displays. They present relevant driving data plus additional information selected using the multi-function steering wheel. Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera is one of the most important assistance systems, along with Lane Change Assist and ParkAssist with Surround View.
Your personal Cayenne – more customisation, more online services
The new PCM introduces an enhanced level of interaction. Alongside the start screen and main menu being adjustable to the driver’s needs, up to six individual profiles can also be configured. As well as a large number of interior settings, a preference data is stored on specifications for lights, driving programmes and assistance systems. Depending on the equipment, the driver can also apply their own adjustments to the new sound systems from Bose® and Burmester®. Additionally, the new Cayenne is always online if the driver needs it to be, thanks the expanded Connect Plus services which are available through the integrated LTE-enabled SIM card. The Offroad Precision App, specially developed for Porsche’s SUV, is now also available as part of the new standard package. It allows rough-terrain drives to be documented in detail, helping the driver to improve their own skills using video recordings.
The third generation of Porsche’s SUV models are available to order now, with first deliveries arriving in January 2018. Basic retail prices in Qatar are as follows:
Cayenne QAR 296,600
Cayenne S QAR 361,200