Cayenne Turbo

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【Summary】The new Porsche Cayenne Turbo is quicker, more efficient, and larger than its predecessor. It offers all the benefits of a full-size 4x4, with a supple ride, elevated seating position, and ample space. The Turbo version is as fast as a 911 Carrera 4S and has a 185kg weight saving and a 31% boost in economy. The updated 4.8-litre twin-turbo engine delivers 493bhp and can go from 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds.

FutureCar Staff Aug 31, 2023 5:29 PM PT

The all-new Porsche Cayenne has arrived on UK roads, and it is bigger, more efficient, and more stylish than its predecessor. Despite its longer wheelbase, the new Cayenne appears smaller in person due to its taut body and sharper front end.

The Cayenne is Porsche's best-selling model, generating significant revenue that allows for the production of limited-run specials like the GT2 RS. The top-spec Turbo variant, which we had the opportunity to test drive, is the fastest 4x4 in the world.

At first glance, the Cayenne Turbo may seem expensive, excessively quick, and irrelevant to most buyers. However, a closer look reveals the extraordinary achievements of Porsche with this car. It offers the benefits of a full-size 4x4, including a comfortable ride, elevated seating position, and ample space in the back. But that's just scratching the surface of the Turbo's capabilities. It can match the speed of a 911 Carrera 4S in a straight line and is nearly as quick through corners. Additionally, it has shed 185kg in weight compared to its predecessor and boasts a 31% improvement in fuel economy, thanks to stop-start technology. The styling overhaul inside and out is the icing on the cake.

Inside the Cayenne, significant changes have been made, with a Panamera-style rising center console that gives the driver a cockpit-like experience. The build quality is exceptional, with sturdy metal and stitched leather covering most surfaces.

In line with Porsche's Intelligent Performance mantra, the new Cayenne is 185kg lighter than before, and stop-start technology is now standard on models equipped with the efficient eight-speed Tiptronic auto transmission. These improvements result in a 31% increase in fuel economy, reaching 24.6mpg, and a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions, now at 270g/km.

Despite the weight reduction, the updated 4.8-liter twin-turbo engine still delivers an impressive 493bhp. The SUV can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 4.7 seconds, which is four-tenths faster than the previous Cayenne and on par with the 911 Carrera 4S. The quad exhausts emit a muted gargle, adding to the exhilarating driving experience.

Behind the wheel of the Cayenne, the driver sits in a lofty position within a well-insulated interior. The car feels composed at any speed, making it easy to lose track of how fast you're traveling. The laser-like steering allows for precise control, and the optional carbon ceramic discs provide excellent braking performance and resistance to fade.

In corners, the Cayenne defies expectations by exhibiting minimal body roll. Porsche's Dynamic Chassis Control, three-mode PASM suspension, and Torque Vectoring Plus system, which optimizes grip by distributing power between the rear wheels, allow the Cayenne to corner flat and fast, outperforming any rival. It can be thought of as a sports car on stilts.

The Range Rover Supercharged, with its 510bhp supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, remains the top choice for ultimate luxury and comfort. While it may not match the Cayenne in terms of performance, it still offers a powerful driving experience, especially in off-road conditions.