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Third generation of the Porsche Cayenne revealedNew engines, new chassis, innovative control concept and more connectivity

Australia. Porsche is introducing the third generation of the Cayenne. This successful model from the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer is a completely new design and combines even more typical Porsche performance with excellent everyday practicality.

Its powerful turbo engines, new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox, new chassis systems and innovative display and control concept with total connectivity take both sport and comfort to the next level.

Initially, two newly developed six-cylinder engines will be available. The three-litre turbo in the entry Cayenne developing 250 kW (340 hp), some 29 kW (40 hp) more than the previous model. Then the Cayenne S with its 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine producing 324 kW (440 hp), an increase of 15 kW (20 hp) over its predecessor and with a top speed of 265 km/h. Equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the new Cayenne S accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in less than five seconds.

The Cayenne is based heavily on the concept of the iconic 911 sports car: The third edition of the SUV, which has also been enhanced visually, now has mixed tyre sizes and rear-axle steering for the first time.

In addition to these typical sports car features, on-road capabilities are further improved by active all-wheel drive as standard, Porsche 4D Chassis Control, three-chamber air suspension and the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) electronic roll stabilisation system. Despite a significantly higher level of standard equipment, the Cayenne weighs up to 65 kilograms less than its predecessor and remains perfectly suited to off-road use.

Dynamic design language: firmer design and larger wheels

Sporty and precise with a clear design – new and yet familiar: The appearance of the Cayenne is enhanced in the style that runs through the Porsche Design DNA. The enlarged air intakes at the front are clear indicators of the increased performance. The new horizontal light edges makes the SUV appear wider and more athletic, even when stationary.

The elegant, streamlined silhouette of the Cayenne – which is 4,918 millimetres long and 1,983 millimetres wide (excluding mirrors) – has been noticeably enhanced, with exterior length increased by 63 millimetres without any change to the wheelbase (2,895 millimetres) while roof height is reduced by nine millimetres.

The luggage compartment volume is now 770 litres – an increase of 100 litres. The wheels are one inch larger in diameter, with larger wheels and tyres on the rear axle for the first time, emphasising the enhanced driving dynamics. The distinctive, three-dimensional Porsche logo spans the redesigned rear lights with three-dimensional light design and end-to-end narrow strip of LEDs.

Porsche is offering a new three-stage lighting concept for the headlights: Every Cayenne is fitted with LED headlights as standard. Next up is the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) which can be selected as an option, offering a variety of light modes such as cornering light and motorway light. The new LED main headlights with matrix beam including PDLS Plus are the best system available. Fully variable light distribution and intensity is enabled by 84 individually activated light-emitting diodes. This means the Cayenne can offer new functions such as high beam that does not glare opposing traffic, as well as adaptive sign glare control.

Cayenne and Cayenne S market launch

The new Porsche SUV is launching in two variants: The Cayenne with its six-cylinder turbo engine and displacement of three litres delivers 250 kW (340 hp) and maximum torque of 450 Nm. That means that even the standard model achieves outstanding driving performance: accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds (5.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package). Maximum speed is 245 km/h. The second model to launch is the Cayenne S. It is powered by a 2.9-litre V6 engine with twin turbocharging. This engine, which has also been newly developed, delivers 324 kW (440 hp), which is 15 kW (20 hp) more than its predecessor. Maximum torque is 550 Nm. Accordingly, the S accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds (with Sport Chrono Package: 4.9 seconds). Maximum speed is 265 km/h.

Faster on the road, even more impressive on rough terrain: Tiptronic S and PTM

The Cayenne’s expanded performance, improving both sportiness and comfort, is due in no small part to the new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox. Shorter response times and sportier ratios in the lower gears enhance both on-road performance and off-road capability. At the other end of the expanded spread between comfort and sportiness, the overdrive eighth gear ensures optimised fuel consumption and relaxed highway driving.

Even on rough terrain, the Cayenne provides straightforward driving enjoyment. Programmed off-road modes make it easy for the driver to select the right setup for the task. The default setting is the Onroad programme. Four other modes activate the conditioning for mild off-road terrain: Mud, Gravel, Sand or Rocks. The drive, chassis and differential locks can be adapted to the relevant scenario. For power distribution, Porsche utilises active all-wheel drive in all Cayenne models. The intelligent, fully variable Porsche Traction Management (PTM) distributes the driving force between the drive axles. Its ‘hang-on’ concept is a key principle for the excellent sporting performance of the Cayenne. At the same time, it fulfils all requirements for extensive traction on rough terrain.

Following the 911: lightweight chassis with mixed tyre sizes

The new Cayenne combines three chassis concepts in one new design: sports car, off-roader and touring car. This involved developing a new lightweight chassis base with a front axle featuring a separated link design and a multi-link rear axle. A typical sports car feature is the new mixed tyre sizes, which are now on wheels of at least 19 inch. The mixed tyre sizes improve stability and driving dynamics on bends. Wheels up to 21 inch are available as an option.

New developments: rear-axle steering, air suspension, roll stabilisation

This combination provides the optimal basis for the active chassis systems, which are analysed and synchronised by the integrated Porsche 4D Chassis Control system. The system works in real time, optimising handling even further. With the exception of the active PASM damper system all other chassis systems are new developments.

For the first time, the Cayenne is available with electric rear-axle steering. The system, tried and tested both in the 911 and the Panamera, improves agility around bends and stability when changing lanes at high speeds. The reduced turning circle also makes everyday handling easier.

The adaptive air suspension with new three-chamber technology significantly increases the spread between a sporty, firm connection and the driving comfort expected of a touring car. Just as before, the system enables adjustments to the ground clearance on rough terrain. With the optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilisation, sporty drivers benefit by changing from a hydraulic to an electric system. This switch is made possible by a powerful 48-volt vehicle electrical system. Shorter response times enable even more precision in the driving dynamics – and even more comfort on moderate drives.

World première: Porsche Surface Coated Brake with tungsten-carbide layer

With the innovative Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB), the sports car manufacturer is once again assuming a pioneering role in the development of high-performance brakes. This world first is available as an option for all Cayenne models and consists of a cast-iron disc with a tungsten-carbide coating. This finish increases friction values while wear and brake dust are reduced. The brake, exclusive to Porsche, is also visually impressive: The brake callipers are painted white, while the surface of the discs develop a unique gloss after bedding-in. The PSCB is only available in combination with the 20-inch and 21-inch wheels. The PCCB ceramic brakes remain the top choice in the range.

New Sport Chrono Package with PSM Sport

The new Cayenne offers even more potential when it comes to sporty performance. Porsche has redeveloped the Sport Chrono Package to be based on its traditional sports cars. The Mode button on the steering wheel is one clear indicator of this approach. As well as Normal, Sport and Sport Plus driving modes, the driver can select an individually configurable mode. Pressing the Sport Response button in the centre activates the engine and transmission maps, which are calibrated for maximum performance. The Sport Chrono Package also includes a separate PSM Sport mode, where the driver can utilise the new Cayenne’s full driving dynamics.

Reduced weight means lower fuel consumption and even more driving pleasure

Sports cars need a lightweight construction. Following the 911 and the Panamera, the new body of the Cayenne also uses an intelligent combination of alloy and steel. The exterior is made entirely of aluminium. The floorpan assembly, front section and virtually all the chassis components are also manufactured from alloy.

One particular technical highlight is the innovative lithium-ion polymer starter battery, which alone accounts for a weight saving of 10 kg over the predecessor. In total, the weight of the Cayenne when empty has been reduced from 2,040 to 1,985 kilograms – even in spite of the significantly extended standard equipment, which now includes LED main headlights, larger wheels, ParkAssist (front and rear), an LTE telephone module including a WiFi hotspot, Porsche Connect services and anticipatory pedestrian protection.

Digital evolution: Porsche Advanced Cockpit and new PCM

With this new generation, the Cayenne is writing a new chapter in the relationship between driver and car: The Porsche Advanced Cockpit is fully integrated into the sporty, luxurious atmosphere. At the heart of the new display and control concept from Porsche is the 12.3-inch full-HD touchscreen from the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM), launched last year with the new Panamera. A range of digital functions can be operated intuitively – including by voice control.

The standard Porsche Connect Plus allows access to online services and the Internet. This includes the standard online navigation with real-time traffic information. The analogue controls on the new centre console are focused on the main functions of the vehicle. Other buttons are harmoniously integrated into the smartphone-like, glass-look touch surface, giving acoustic and haptic feedback when operated.

In typical Porsche style, the driver has a central analogue tachometer to view. This is flanked by two 7-inch full-HD displays, which display all other relevant driving data plus additional information selected using the multi-function steering wheel. Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera is one of the most important assistance systems, along with Lane Change Assist, Lane Keeping Assist including traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, ParkAssist including Surround View and Porsche InnoDrive including adaptive cruise control.

Your personal Cayenne – more customisation, more online services

At the same time, the new PCM brings the next level of customisation. It is not only the start screen and main menu that can be adjusted to the driver’s needs. Up to six individual profiles can also be configured. As well as a large number of interior settings, a profile is used to store settings for lights, driving programmes and assistance systems. Depending on the equipment, the driver can also apply their own settings to the new sound systems from Bose® and Burmester®.

Plus, the new Cayenne is always online if the driver needs it to be – the expanded Connect Plus services are available through the integrated LTE-enabled SIM card. The engine-independent heating, for example, can be programmed remotely via smartphone. In addition, the Offroad Precision App, specially developed for the Porsche Cayenne, is now also available as part of the new standard package. It allows rough-terrain drives to be documented in detail, helping the driver to improve their own skills using video recordings.

The new Cayenne for Australia

The third generation of the Porsche Cayenne is available to order now in Europe. Information contained in this press release relates to European models only. Pricing and specification for the Cayenne and Cayenne S for Australia have not been finalised and therefore will not be announced until early in 2018. Australian deliveries will begin from mid 2018.

Fuel consumption and emissions 1)

Cayenne: combined fuel consumption 9.2 L / 100 km; CO2 emissions 209 g/km

Cayenne S: combined fuel consumption 9.4 L / 100 km; CO2 emissions 213 g/km

1) Range depends on the tyres used

* Fuel Consumption

Consumption figures are not reflective of real world driving conditions. Consumption figures are per the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test cycle ) in accordance with the Euro 5 and Euro 6 (715/2007/EC and 692/2008/EC) measurement method and should be used for comparative purposes only. The figures do not refer to an individual vehicle nor do they constitute part of the offer. Higher equipment levels may affect consumption and performance.

30/8/2017