The latest Porsche Cayenne boasts significantly enhanced convenience thanks to cutting-edge electronic equipment, while also improving quietness and driving performance.
This new Cayenne took to the roads around the Yongin Speed Way circuit on the 13th, as part of the Porsche World Roadshow. The Porsche World Roadshow is a popular program that has allowed over 47,000 participants to experience driving in 55 countries around the globe.
Launched as the first five-seater Porsche in 2002, the Cayenne has firmly established itself in the luxury SUV market with over 300,000 units sold worldwide. As of August this year, it achieved a sales volume of 3,646 units, accounting for 43.98% of Porsche’s total sales of 8,290 units, solidifying its pivotal role in the brand’s performance. The Cayenne, a vital member of Porsche globally, makes its grand entrance into the domestic market with its third-generation facelift.
The face remains unchanged. The Cayenne, inheriting Porsche’s design genes, presents a refined appearance that has evolved with the times. The dynamic roof line stretched from the A to the D pillar proves that it is an SUV but definitely possesses sports car credentials. The straight lamps at the rear give it a polished and neat impression, reminiscent of an agent from the National Intelligence Service.
The new Cayenne embraces digitization, with cutting-edge electronic equipment further enhanced. A 10.9-inch monitor has been exclusively installed for the passenger seat, allowing occupants to comfortably enjoy various contents provided by the Porsche infotainment system.
A 12.9-inch touch-screen center monitor captures your attention, providing a wealth of information inside the vehicle. Additionally, the traditional gear knob has been relocated next to the center monitor, similar to the Taycan. The dashboard and doors are finished with natural leather, emphasizing the luxury distinctive to Porsche. The lock-to-lock steering ratio is 2.4 turns, with steering response being slightly lighter.
With a maximum output of 360 horsepower and a peak torque of 51.0 kg.m, the Cayenne is paired with a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine and an 8-speed DCT. During urban driving, marked by stops and starts, you hardly feel the subtle vibrations from the road, offering an unbelievable level of comfort for a high-performance SUV.
Equipped with adaptive cruise control, it emphasizes living at your own speed while maintaining pace with the flow of traffic. In a busy everyday life, seamlessly aligning with the rhythm of the vehicles ahead feels quite pleasant. However, it’s worth noting that while the Cayenne includes lane departure warnings, it does not have lane-keeping assist. This aligns with Porsche’s philosophy that emphasizes “the driver should take charge of their own driving,” unlike most automakers that equip their vehicles with driving assistance technologies.
On the circuit, the Cayenne showcases its athletic capabilities. A well-dressed gentleman sheds his suit and shoes, approaching in workout gear and sneakers.
An impressive Cayenne S sits on the circuit, a model not available for sale domestically. The Cayenne S features a maximum output of 474 horsepower and peak torque of 61.2 kg.m, powered by a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, improving 34 horsepower and 6.1 kg.m torque over previous models.
The Cayenne S displays a smoother and more skilled performance than the Cayenne. Both models maintain stability even when swaying left and right on the circuit, resulting in a reduction of discomfort for passengers.
The secret lies within the new shock absorbers. With 2-valve technology, rebound and compression stages are separated, creating optimal driving conditions. The adaptive air suspension, equipped with 2-chamber 2-valve technology as standard, has become significantly smoother compared to previous models. This allows for easier handling and improves driving precision, minimizing vehicle movement. Thanks to these enhancements, the new Cayenne exhibits remarkably reduced roll and pitch during dynamic driving compared to earlier versions.
In hairpin sections where lateral jolts could be felt, the Cayenne effortlessly escapes, thanks to its improved air suspension akin to a fish in water. Moreover, each time the driving mode shifts between Normal, Sport, and Sport Plus, a more solid and exhilarating ride is added, with steering responses becoming increasingly robust at higher settings.
The new Cayenne has received a digital baptism, significantly enhancing convenience. At the same time, strengthened adaptive air suspension reduces discomfort and further improves ride quality.
This third-generation facelift of the Cayenne is set to be the last with an internal combustion engine. It proves superiority over the previous generation in every aspect, leaving many in awe. Anticipation builds for the all-electric Cayenne expected to debut in 2025.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr