Serving as one of many highlights at last years Dubai International Motor Show, the all-new Porsche Cayenne lineup is officially on sale in the UAE. Available in no less than three guises, from die-hard Porsche fans to parents who prefer to take their children to school in something a bit more luxurious, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Exterior
Entering its third generation, the performance derived SUV ushers in a fresh new look. Sitting lower and longer compared to the previous models; larger air intakes, a sculpted bonnet and redesigned headlight housing not only give the Cayenne a fresh face but improve driving dynamics.
Furthermore, slimmer side mirrors flank either side, while a refreshed rear wing sits above the widened rear end with an integrated light strip and larger alloys showcase its sporty heritage.
Underneath its bold new looks lies a new lightweight chassis. Built from scratch, Porsche has managed to reduce the overall weight by 65 kilos despite adding a wide range of new equipment. Aside from the active PASM damper system, additional chassis control systems are new including an adaptive three-chamber air suspension and electric roll stabilisation.
Additionally, each model is fitted with a new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox which allows for faster gear shifts thanks to quicker response times and sportier ratios in lower gears.
Interior
The new Porsche Cayenne offers an enlarged cabin plus multiple comfort and convenience features. With an additional 100 litres of cargo space, meanwhile, drivers can enjoy an Advanced Cockpit, a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface with Porsche’s Communication Management (PCM) system. Owners can configure up to six unique profiles via PCM to store a multitude of settings including lights, assistance systems and driving programmes.
Drivers can select between five pre-programmed drive and chassis modes that can be activated through the PCM to tackle various terrains. Depending on what mode is selected, the enhanced system relays information to the chassis, engine and gearbox to ensure optimal performance wherever the Porsche happens to travel.
For the first time, the new Cayenne family is available with rear-axle steering as an option as well as a mixed tyre configuration. Borrowed from the 911 series; agility, safety and stability improve with these additions and allow for a tighter turning circle for increased practicality.
Third Generation Porsche Cayenne price guide
| Porsche Cayenne | AED 313,200 |
| Porsche Cayenne S | AED 381,300 |
| Porsche Cayenne Turbo | AED 582,000 |
Cayenne
Of the three models on offer, the regular Cayenne serves as an “entry-level” model to the family. Driving each corner is a 340 horsepower six-cylinder petrol engine. Benefitting from a 40 horsepower increase, the “baby” model launches from 0-100 km/h in a comfortable 6.2 seconds before hitting a top speed of 245 km/h.
Cayenne S
Cayenne S models draw power from a 2.9-litre biturbo V6 motor churning out a respectable 440 horses (a 20 hp increase) and 550 Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, the Cayenne S boasts a top speed of 265 km/h.
Cayenne Turbo
Those who seek peak performance from an SUV need to look no further as the Turbo variant leads the trio. Equipped with an adaptive roof spoiler similar to the 911 Turbo. As the vehicle is in motion, the spoiler adapts the downforce and aerodynamics to better suit the driving conditions.
To differentiate the Turbo from other Cayenne SUV’s, there are a few things to look out for. 21-inch Turbo wheels finished in dark titanium, enlarged air intakes, unique twin exhaust pipes and double-row front-light units to illuminate the road ahead.
Inside, drivers benefit from adaptive sports seats with 18-way adjustment options, exclusive stitching patterns and a premium BOSE Surround Sound System for passengers and drivers to enjoy.
Cosmetic and aerodynamic additions paired with a biturbo V8 pushing out 550 horsepower complete the package. With a 30 hp increase, the latest Cayenne Turbo blasts from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 286 Km/h. Equip the optional Sports Chrono Package, and the German SUV launches to 100 in 3.9 seconds.
All three models are available across select Emirates of the UAE as of writing.
