Australian specifications and pricing have been announced for the 2018 Porsche Cayenne, the initial three model range is due to arrive mid-year priced from $116,300 plus on-road costs.
The new-generation Cayenne doesn’t look far removed from its predecessor. The rear is where the updated model is most noticeable with new rear lights that incorporate a three-dimensional light design.
Dimensionally, the new Cayenne is slightly longer, an increase of 63mm takes the total length to 4918mm. Despite the increase, there has been no growth in the wheelbase measurement, it remains at 2895mm. The extra space is found in the boot, the luggage compartment volume is now 770 litres – an increase of 100 litres.
While the Cayenne does its best to stick to Porsche’s design language, its proportions make it difficult.
At launch, the Cayenne and Cayenne S will be available with petrol engines. The first, a 3.0-litre turbo V6 offering 250kW of power and 450Nm of torque that can move the car from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds (5.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package) with a top speed of 245km/h.
The Cayenne S gets a 2.9-litre V6 engine with twin turbocharging that produces 324kW/550Nm and can get you from 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds (4.9 if the Sport Chrono pack is optioned). With this engine under the hood, the top speed rises to 265km/h.
The range-topping Cayenne Turbo gets a thumping twin-turbo V8 developing 404kW/770Nm which can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (or 3.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package) on its way to a top speed of 286km/h.
All models will be matched with a new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels.
For the first time, buyers can option rear-axle steering. At speeds of up to approximately 80km/h, the axles steer in opposite directions to deliver improved agility. At higher speeds, both axles steer in the same direction, resulting in even greater stability. Porsche claims this system allows the Cayenne to take on the “driving dynamics of a premium sports car.” A very optimistic statement. The system does reduce the car’s turning circle from 12.1 metres to 11.5 metres.
Porsche Australia is yet to release any details about diesel or e-Hybrid variants, however, announcements are expected to be made in due course.
2018 Porsche Cayenne pricing (excludes on-road costs):
Cayenne - $116,300
Cayenne S - $155,100
Cayenne Turbo - $239,400
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