The 2018 Porsche Cayenne Turbo makes its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show 2017 (IAA 2017). The Cayenne Turbo is the range topping variant of the third generation of the SUV.
Under the hood lurks a 4.0 L V8 biturbo petrol that 550 hp and 770 Nm representing an increment of 30 hp and 20 Nm respectively over its predecessor. An 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission sends power to all wheels via the Porsche Traction Management system. The 2018 Porsche Cayenne Turbo can hit the 100 km/h mark from a standstill in 4.1 seconds in standard form. The optional Sport Chrono Package brings this down to 3.9 seconds, which is the same as the Porsche 911 GT3 with the Touring Package.
The turbochargers are placed in such a way that it has shortened the exhaust paths. This aids engine responsiveness and power delivery. Also, the compact construction of the engine, as a result, helped engineers position it lower thereby lowering the centre of gravity and aiding vehicle dynamics. Porsche also offers the Cayenne Turbo with rear wheel steering and a new three-chamber air suspension. In a first for any SUV in the world, the 2018 Porsche Cayenne Turbo gets an adaptive roof spoiler. Its position varies to optimise efficiency, increase downforce on the rear axle and, in the airbrake position, shorten the braking distance. The company claims the vehicle now needs 2 metres less to come to complete stop from a speed of 250 km/h.
Visually, there are subtle differences between the Turbo and the standard variants. At the front, the Cayenne Turbo gets a sharper nose with larger air intakes and double-row front light modules. The wheel arch trims and the rear bumper are painted to match the exterior colour. Other changes include a quad pipe setup at the back and 21-inch 5 split-spoke alloy wheels. Keeping in line with the SUV's sporty intentions, the cabin gets an all black treatment along with integrated headrests for the seats. Heated seats and steering wheel are standard fitments.