20 Jul 2018
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Porsche introduced its third-generation Cayenne large SUV in June 2018, with the all-new model highlighted by upgraded powertrains and new-age technologies.
The entry-level Cayenne was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine that produced 250kW of power and 450Nm of torque. It claimed sprint from standstill to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds – or 5.9s with the optional Sports Chrono package – while on the way to a top speed of 245km/h.
Meanwhile, the S employed a smaller 2.9-litre unit but picked up a second turbocharger to boost outputs to 324kW and 550Nm, resulting in a 5.2s triple-figure sprint – or 4.9s with Sports Chrono. Its terminal velocity was 265km/h.
The Turbo upped the ante further with its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that pumped out 404kW and 770Nm. It could dash to 100km/h in 4.1s – or 3.9s with Sports Chrono – and maxed out at 286km/h.
The E-Hybrid combined the regular variant’s bent six with a 100kW/400Nm electric motor for combined outputs of 340kW and 700Nm. The plug-in hybrid could hit triple figures in 5.0s while moving towards its top speed of 253km/h.
All four powertrains were exclusively paired with an eight-speed ZF torque-convertor automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring.
Claimed fuel consumption on the combined cycle test ranged from 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres in the regular variant to 11.7L/100km, while the S and E-Hybrid check in at 9.2L/100km and 3.4L/100km respectively.
The Cayenne had four off-road – Mud, Gravel, Sand and Rocks – and three on-road – Individual, Normal and Sport – driving modes, while Sport Plus was added to the latter when the Sports Chrono package was optioned.
Measuring in at 4918mm long, 1983mm wide and 1696mm tall, the range-opening Cayenne was 63mm longer, 44mm wider and 6mm shorter than its predecessor, while its 2895mm wheelbase was 100mm shorter.
In the regular variant and S, cargo capacity was up 100L, to 770L, but could be expanded to 1710L with the 40:20:40 split-fold second row stowed.
Thanks to the addition of the new modular MLB Evo platform shared with other Volkswagen Group products, such as the Audi Q7 and Bentley Bentayga, the Cayenne was 65 kilograms lighter in entry-level form due to the stringent use of aluminium and lightweight steel.
