Updated Cayenne available from $140K

WITH a completely new, generation four Cayenne in the pipeline, Porsche has released what will be the last iteration of the current model. complete with all the bells and whistles.

This ‘final fling’ generation three Cayenne is heavily overhauled with comprehensive changes to the powertrain, chassis, design, and equipment.

Pricing for the new Cayenne jumps between $2100 and $14,300 and starts at $140,200 (Coupé from $148,200) including taxes and country-specific equipment. The new Cayenne E-Hybrid starts at $155,900 (Coupé from $161,600) and the new Cayenne S starts at $181,000 (Coupé from $190,000).

At the top of the range, the new Cayenne Turbo GT starts at $366,200. The new models are available to order now with deliveries starting from Q3, 2023.

In the latest variant, engineers and designers have been able to extend the family-sized SUV’s on- and off-road performance credentials while embellishing its everyday luxury credentials.

In essence, the ‘comprehensive upgrade’ includes Porsche Driver Experience with a new control concept and digital cockpit, significant changes to the exterior design, innovative HD Matrix LED headlights, chassis optimisation with new two-valve suspension and best of all, more power in all engine variants.

Drilling down, we find Aussie spec’ Cayenne comes with three different engine versions… an extensive refinement of the 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo petrol engine developed by Porsche replaces the previous V6 engine in the new Cayenne S.

With a maximum output of 349KW and 600Nm torque – an increase of 25kW and 50Nm over its predecessor – both the SUV and the SUV Coupé accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. 

Entry into the Cayenne family comes with an ‘optimised’ 3.0-litre V6 turbo engine that kicks out 260kW and 500 Nm, up 10kW and 50Nm.

The six-pot donk forms the basis for the Cayenne E-Hybrid powertrain working in combination with a new electric motor that has been improved by 30kW to 130kW for a combined output increase to 346kW.

The capacity of the high-voltage battery has increased from 17.9kWh to 25.9kWh. 

A new 11kW on-board charger shortens charging time regardless of the bigger capacity battery and is augmented on the move by e-hybrid driving modes.

The Turbo GT model is a sealed road blaster designed for maximum performance and remains the top-model Cayenne. It is only available as a coupé and scores all the optimisations and innovations of the model series.

Additionally, the output of the four-litre V8 bi-turbo engine in the Turbo GT is increased by 14kW to 485kW empowering the model to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.3 seconds. 

Inside, Porsche has integrated a completely revised display and control concept into the latest Cayenne centred on the Porsche Driver Experience that was first introduced in the Porsche Taycan. It places a focus on the driver's axis and optimises operation. 

Functions that the driver uses frequently are located directly on or immediately next to the steering wheel.

Positioning of key controls such as the auto transmission selector are driver centric optimised making room on the centre console for storage compartments and a large air-conditioning controller.

In a departure from the rash of screen driven controls on new cars, the Cayenne has large, easily accessible controls combined with mechanical air-conditioning switches and a haptic volume controller to ensure optimum operability and a refined look. It is a convenient mix of analogue and digital compared to other cars on the market.

The cockpit includes a fully digital 12.6-inch instrument cluster with a so-called curved and free-standing design and variable display options.

There is a head-up display fitted as standard and a standard 12.3- inch central Porsche Communication Management (PCM) display integrates into the new dashboard providing access to all the relevant vehicle functions. Native apps such as Spotify and Apple Music are provided to optimise connectivity with compatible phones in the new Cayenne. 

On the outside, the Cayenne’s look has been tweaked with new lighting technology and what Porsche describes as a ‘particularly expressive appearance thanks to the altered visage, strongly arched wings, a new bonnet and other changes to emphasise the vehicle’s width.

A similar approach is used down the back with three dimensional taillights, uncluttered surfaces beneath and a new rear apron with integrated number plate holder.

More colours are available with three new optional colours, and lightweight sports packages are available to shed up to 33kg from the Cayenne Coupé.

A new range of wheels comprising 20-, 21-, and 22-inch choices is available and matrix LED headlights are now standard on the Cayenne.

The vehicle uses predictive navigation data to detect approaching tunnel entrances and automatically activates air recirculation. An optional air quality system uses a sensor to detect the level of fine dust particles in the air and can pass it through the fine dust filter multiple times if necessary.

Porsche equips the Cayenne ex-factory with steel spring suspension inclusive of Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). New shock absorbers with two-valve technology provide specific rebound and compression stages to allow optimised performance in all driving situations.

The driving experience can be enhanced with the new adaptive air suspension with two-chamber, two-valve technology.

“The latest Cayenne boasts a highly digitalised display and control concept, new chassis technology and innovative high-tech features. It’s one of the most extensive product upgrades in the history of Porsche,” said Cayenne product line vice president Michael Schatzle.

“With its extensively upgraded design and more powerful engine range, the Cayenne emphasises its claim to be one of the sportiest cars in its segment.”

2023 Porsche Cayenne pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.