Just two weeks after unveiling its completely redesigned 2019 Cayenne in standard and S model series, Porsche used the 2017 International Auto Show in Frankfurt to reveal the line-topping Cayenne Turbo, which Porsche claims will be faster than the outgoing 2018 Cayenne Turbo S.
As has always been true, the new Turbo takes what is great about the standard Cayenne, and makes it better.
Hunkered down and expressing extra attitude, the redesigned 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo is more powerful and faster than ever.
(Porsche)
Starting under the hood, the 2019 Cayenne Turbo is endowed with a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V8 engine that is mounted lower in the vehicle for a reduced center of gravity and better handling characteristics. It churns 550 horsepower and 567 lb.-ft. of torque, gains of 30 horsepower and 14 lb.-ft., respectively.
Power is delivered to all four wheels through the same 8-speed automatic used in other Cayenne models, while Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus technology ensures best use of the prodigious oomph. Acceleration to 60 mph takes just 3.9 seconds, or 3.7 seconds if you upgrade to the Sport Chrono Package. Top speed is 177 mph, just what every SUV needs.
The new Cayenne Turbo looks terrific, thanks to staggered width 21-inch wheels filling its wells, quad-outlet exhaust, and subtly aggressive rear diffuser and roof spoiler elements.
(Porsche)
Porsche plants the new Cayenne Turbo atop a 3-chamber air suspension featuring Porsche Active Suspension Management active shock absorbers that simultaneously improve both ride comfort and handling athleticism. Staggered tire sizes measure 285/40 in front and 315/35 in rear, and the performance-oriented rubber is wrapped around exclusive 21-inch aluminum wheels.
Optional for other Cayenne models, Porsche Surface Coated Brakes are standard for the Turbo, featuring cast-iron discs dipped in tungsten carbide for improved braking performance, better resistance to wear, and reduced brake dust. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes are optional, maximizing stopping power.
Equip the 2019 Cayenne Turbo with its optional rear axle steering and electric roll stabilization upgrades, and Porsche promises that this SUV “achieves the driving dynamics of a sports car.” Nevertheless, it also retains true off-roading capabilities thanks to six suspension height settings, four off-road terrain settings, and differential locks.
Acceleration to 60 mph takes as little as 3.7 seconds, and thanks to its adaptive rear spoiler, the 2019 Cayenne Turbo comes to a stop from 155 mph a full 79 inches sooner.
(Porsche)
Exclusive front styling and lighting treatments, including a standard Porsche Dynamic Light System, ensure that the Cayenne Turbo won’t be mistaken for less powerful and less expensive variants of the SUV. Additional styling highlights include widened wheel arches and twin rear exhaust outlets.
An adaptive rear roof spoiler serves three different functions, depending on how the Cayenne Turbo is driven. At typical highway speeds, it enhances aerodynamic efficiency. At higher velocities, it adjusts to add rear downforce. Stab the brakes, and it transforms into an air brake to help haul the SUV down from triple digit speeds.
Does it work? Porsche says so, claiming that when braking from 155 mph, the spoiler brings the Cayenne Turbo to a stop 79 inches sooner.
Cayenne Turbo models have more standard equipment than other versions of Porsche’s SUV, but you can easily inflate the $125,650 starting price by adding extras.
(Porsche)
Among the interior highlights, the Cayenne Turbo is equipped with a standard Bose surround sound audio system, 18-way power adjustable sport seats, heated front and rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. As is true of any Porsche, buyers have a wide range of colors, materials, and equipment from which to choose, tailoring the SUV to specific preferences.
If you’re in love with the new Porsche Cayenne Turbo, you can place your order in December of 2017, but you’ll need to wait until the fall of 2018 to take delivery. Prices start at $125,650 including the shipping and handling fee. That’s nearly double the window sticker affixed to a base Cayenne.
Nobody said maximum performance and prestige came cheap.
