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Porsche Reveals The New Cayenne

BY Sean Loo

The new Porsche Cayenne debuts with a new digitised cockpit, a new chassis system and innovative high-tech features.

Porsche has recently updated its Cayenne lineup, bestowing the model with a tech refresh as well as improvements to its handling and performance. “It’s one of the most extensive product upgrades in the history of Porsche,” says Michael Schätzle, Vice President, Cayenne Product Line.

A Driver-focused Experience

To make drivers feel more engaged while at the wheel, Porsche has integrated a completely revised display and control concept into the new Cayenne. Dubbed the latest iteration of the Porsche Driver Experience, this was first introduced in the Porsche Taycan, and focuses on streamlining driver functionality in the vehicle.

Functions that a driver may potentially use frequently are located directly on or immediately next to the steering wheel. This enables key controls to be within easy reach, while also making room on the new centre console for storage compartments and a larger HVAC controller. I really appreciate the mechanical switches and dials, as opposed to clumping every little function onto a screen.

This is actually a key feature of the new Porsche Driver Experience, where designers are targeting the right balance between digital and analogue elements.

The driver’s instrument cluster is now a fully digital 12.6-inch curved display, with a head-up display available as an add-on option. For infotainment and other settings, a 12.3-inch Porsche Communication Management (PCM) display now blends seamlessly into the new dashboard. Native apps such as Spotify® and Apple Music® are provided to optimise connectivity in the new Cayenne.

If two screens aren’t enough for you, a new 10.9-inch display is now available for the passenger side. Performance driving data can be displayed here, or it can provide separate access to the infotainment system controls and, depending on the market, the option of streaming video content on the road. A special foil ensures that the driver cannot see this display, so no peeking whilst you are driving.

Porsche has also introduced an air quality system in the new Cayenne. With the standard fittings, the vehicle uses predictive navigation data to detect approaching tunnel entrances and automatically activates air recirculation.

Optionally, an additional sensor detects the level of fine dust particles in the air and passes it through a fine dust filter multiple times if necessary. Furthermore, an ioniser works in tandem to remove germs and pollutants from the air. If you live in densely populated areas, this might be a good option to add.

The Cayenne also now comes with a comprehensive range of new and optimised assistance systems. Drivers can utilise the active speed limiter, swerve assist, cornering assist, and the improved Porsche InnoDrive as part of the adaptive cruise control suite. Perfect should you encounter jams while on your journey.

Park Assist is also on hand to aid drivers with parking. The system includes a reversing camera alongside front and rear sensors as standard.

Refined Exterior

The new Porsche Cayenne has also received some exterior updates. A new front end design with arched wings, bonnet and standard Matrix LED headlights give the car some much needed muscle appeal. The rear end is now cleaner overall too, thanks to three-dimensional designed tail lights, a new rear apron and an uncluttered rear diffuser zone.

Customers can also opt for three new colours, optional lightweight sports packages, and a new extensive range of 20, 21, and 22-inch wheels, so you can be sure your new Cayenne will be unique to you.

Packs a punch when you want it to

Porsche now equips the Cayenne with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, enabling optimised performance in all driving situations.

For those who yearn for more, an optional adaptive air suspension with 2-chamber, 2-valve technology can be specified, improving the overall driving experience. The adaptive air suspension improves driving precision and performance, reducing body movements in dynamic driving situations.

Did someone say more power?

The new Cayenne will arrive with three different engine variants. The base model comes with a 3-litre V6 turbo engine that pumps out 348bhp and 500Nm of torque.

The 6-cylinder heart also forms the petrol base for the powertrain of the Cayenne E-Hybrid. Working in tandem with a new electric motor that has been improved to pump out 174bhp, the combined output has now increased to 463bhp. A new 25.9 kWh battery offers up to 90 kilometres of electric range (WLTP). Plus, a new 11 kW on-board charger now shortens charging time to less than two and a half hours despite the bigger battery capacity.

Instead of downsizing, a refinement of the 4-litre V8 bi-turbo engine now replaces the previous V6 configuration in the Cayenne S. With a maximum output of 468bhp and 600Nm of torque, it can complete the century sprint in just 4.7 seconds, rocking up all the way to 273 km/h.