Porsche expands its Cayenne lineup with the introduction of the new Cayenne GTS and Cayenne GTS Coupé models, blending robust V8 performance with sophisticated chassis technology and distinctive GTS design elements. These models reaffirm the GTS lineage – Gran Turismo Sport – signifying enhanced dynamism and long-distance touring capability, perfectly positioned for drivers who demand both thrilling performance and everyday usability in their SUV.
At its core, the Porsche Cayenne has always been a versatile vehicle, adept at both high-performance driving and all-terrain adventures. However, the GTS variant traditionally sharpens this focus towards on-road excellence. The latest Cayenne GTS models continue this tradition, delivering a potent driving experience, precise handling, and exclusive aesthetics, all while maintaining the practicality expected from a Cayenne.
Advanced Chassis Technology Inherited from the Cayenne Turbo GT
The new Cayenne GTS distinguishes itself with a meticulously engineered, GTS-specific chassis setup and a lowered ride height, sitting 10 millimeters closer to the road compared to the standard Cayenne. A significant upgrade is the inclusion of adaptive air suspension as standard equipment. This system incorporates Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which actively and continuously adjusts damping force based on road conditions and driving style, enhancing both comfort and handling. Furthermore, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) is also standard, enhancing vehicle dynamics and stability by varying torque distribution to the rear wheels.
All chassis components and control systems, including Porsche Traction Management (PTM) for all-wheel drive, and the optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) – an active roll stabilization system – are specifically calibrated to optimize on-road performance. The GTS models benefit from two-valve damper technology, providing rapid responsiveness to changing road surfaces and driver inputs. The two-chamber air suspension not only allows for a broad spectrum between sporty firmness and comfortable compliance but also contributes to dynamic spring rates.
A notable feature adopted from the high-performance Cayenne Turbo GT (unavailable in Europe) is the front axle pivot bearings. These bearings increase the wheels’ negative camber by 0.58 degrees compared to other Cayenne models. This seemingly small change yields a significant improvement in cornering agility and overall handling sharpness, allowing for more confident and dynamic driving.
Potent V8 Biturbo Engine Under the Hood
Powering the Cayenne GTS is Porsche’s charismatic 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, developed and manufactured in Zuffenhausen. This engine has undergone substantial revisions, resulting in improved efficiency and a notable increase in power output. The updated V8 now delivers 500 PS (368 kW), a 40 PS (30 kW) increase over its predecessor. Torque has also been boosted to 660 Nm, an increase of 40 Nm, providing even more robust acceleration and mid-range responsiveness.
The engine is paired with a refined eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission, which has been tuned for quicker response and reduced shift times, particularly noticeable in Sport and Sport Plus driving modes. This combination of enhanced engine power and optimized transmission contributes to the Cayenne GTS’s exhilarating performance.
The performance figures are truly impressive for a vehicle in this class. The new Cayenne GTS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 275 km/h. Further enhancing its performance and durability, the transfer box for the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system now features an independent water cooling circuit, another technology derived from the Cayenne Turbo GT. This advanced cooling system stabilizes the continuous load capacity, proving beneficial during demanding driving scenarios such as track days or spirited driving on mountain roads.
Exclusive GTS Design and Premium Equipment
Staying true to Porsche’s GTS lineage, the new Cayenne GTS models feature distinctive sporty design cues. These include black ‘GTS’ lettering on the sides and rear, a unique front fascia with enlarged cooling air intakes to emphasize its performance intent, darkened-tinted headlights and taillights, and signature red brake calipers. These elements combine to create an instantly recognizable Porsche GTS aesthetic, further refined with subtle yet impactful updates.
Body attachments that are part of the standard Sport Design package, such as the side skirts, front inlays, side window trims, and wheel arch extensions, are now finished in High-Gloss Black. This is a departure from previous GTS models where some of these parts were body-colored, adding a more aggressive and unified visual theme. Conversely, the sport exhaust system tailpipes, previously black, now sport a distinctive dark bronze finish, providing a subtle yet unique contrast. Completing the exterior enhancements are 21-inch RS Spyder-design wheels, finished in anthracite grey, further enhancing the GTS’s dynamic stance.
Inside, the Cayenne GTS cabin is appointed with a heated GT sports steering wheel as standard. Race-Tex, a high-quality, suede-like material, is extensively used throughout the interior, covering the roof lining, armrests, door panels, and the center panels of the eight-way adjustable sports seats. The side bolsters of the seats have been raised to provide even greater lateral support during spirited cornering. For further personalization, Porsche offers two optional GTS-specific interior packages in Carmine Red or Slate Grey Neo (available at a later date), allowing owners to tailor the interior to their individual preferences.
Enhanced Driver Experience and Technology
The new Cayenne GTS models benefit from the latest Cayenne product upgrade, featuring the innovative Porsche Driver Experience with a curved digital instrument cluster as standard, and the option for an integrated passenger display. In addition to the Sport Design package, darkened HD matrix LED headlights, and air suspension, the GTS models also come standard with a Bose® surround sound system and ambient lighting, enhancing both entertainment and cabin ambiance.
The Cayenne GTS Coupé further distinguishes itself with a standard fixed panoramic glass roof and an adaptive extending rear spoiler. For those seeking an even more dynamic driving experience in the Coupé, an optional sports exhaust system with centrally positioned tailpipes in dark bronze is available as part of three different lightweight sports packages. These packages also include a lightweight roof, a carbon rear diffuser, and reduced sound insulation, collectively reducing vehicle weight by up to 25 kilograms depending on the chosen equipment.
Both the Porsche Cayenne Gts and Cayenne GTS Coupé are available to order now, with European deliveries commencing in Summer 2024. These models represent a compelling blend of Porsche’s performance DNA and the Cayenne’s inherent versatility, making them a highly desirable choice in the performance SUV segment.
