New 3rd Generation 2017 Cayenne SUV revealed

New engines, new chassis, innovative control concept and more connectivity

Third generation of the Porsche Cayenne unveiled

Great Britain. Today, Porsche is proud to introduce the third generation of the Cayenne, the sports car among sports utility vehicles. This latest edition of the successful all-wheel drive four door sports car from the Stuttgart marque is a completely new development, and combines typical Porsche performance with everyday versatility.

Powerful turbocharged engines, a new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic gearbox, new chassis systems and an innovative display and control concept with total connectivity combine to raise sport and comfort to a new level.

At launch, there are two newly-developed six-cylinder petrol engines to choose from. The Cayenne is powered by a 340 hp (250 kW), three-litre V6 engine with a single turbocharger delivering 40 hp (29 kW) more than the prior model. The 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo engine in the Cayenne S develops 440 hp (324 kW) – an increase of 20 hp (15 kW). Equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the new Cayenne S accelerates from zero to 62 mph in less than five seconds.

The Cayenne draws heavily on inspiration from the iconic 911 sports car, notably in its technology and more subtly in design cues. For instance, the new model features mixed tyres (wider at the rear than the front) and the option of rear-axle steering for the first time. In addition, the on-road capabilities are further broadened by the active all-wheel drive fitted as standard. On top, three-chamber air suspension and the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) electronic roll stabilisation system can be specified to raise dynamic responses, as well as comfort, further still. Through ingenious design, the Cayenne weighs up to 65 kg less than its predecessor despite the higher level of standard equipment; and also remains perfectly suited to off-road use.

Dynamic design language
Sporting and precise with a clear design – new and yet familiar: the appearance of the new Cayenne reflects the style that runs through the Porsche Design DNA. The enlarged air intakes at the front are clear statements of the increased performance. The new horizontal light edges create a wider and more athletic impression, even when stationary. The overall elegance and streamlining of the Cayenne is notably enhanced by an increase in overall length of 63 mm and a 9 mm lower roof height compared with its predecessor; without any change to the overall wheelbase (2,895 mm). Total length is 4,918 mm and width (excluding mirrors) is 1,983 mm.

The luggage compartment volume is now 770 litres – an increase of 100 litres. The wheels are one inch larger in diameter, with wider 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, which feature a three-dimensional design and narrow LED strips.

Every Cayenne is fitted with LED headlights as standard, and from here a new three-stage headlight concept is available. In the next upgrade, the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) can be selected as an option, offering a variety of light modes such as cornering lights and motorway lights. The new LED main headlights with matrix beam including PDLS Plus are the ultimate system available. Fully variable light distribution and intensity are enabled by 84 individually activated light-emitting diodes; this means that the Cayenne can offer new functions such as high beam that does not glare opposing traffic, as well as adaptive road sign glare control.

Faster on the road, even more impressive on the rough: Tiptronic S and PTM
The expanded performance range of the Cayenne, broadening both sportiness and comfort, is due in no small part to the new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic 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 taller eighth gear ensures lower revs, optimised fuel consumption and relaxed cruising.

Even on rough terrain, the Cayenne provides straightforward driving pleasure. Programmed off-road modes make it easy for the driver to select the right set-up for their drive. The default setting is the on-road 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 selected to adapt to the relevant scenario. For power distribution, Porsche utilises the active all-wheel drive in every Cayenne. The intelligent, fully variable Porsche Traction Management (PTM) distributes the torque between the driven 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 tyres
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 tyres, which ride on wheels of at least 19 inches diameter. The mixed tyres improve cornering stability and driving dynamics. Wheel sizes up to 21 inches are available as an option.

New developments: rear-axle steering, air suspension, roll stabilisation
This format 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 Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) damper system (standard with the Cayenne S), all other chassis systems are new. For the first time, the Cayenne is available with the option of electric rear-axle steering – a unique attribute in the segment. The system, tried and tested both in the 911 and the Panamera, improves agility in bends and high speed lane-change stability. The reduced turning circle also makes for easier manoeuvring day to day.

The optional adaptive air suspension with new three-chamber technology significantly increases the spread between a sporting and assured connection with the road and the driving comfort expected of a touring car. As before, the system enables adjustments to the ground clearance on rough terrain. With the optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilisation, drivers benefit by changing from a hydraulic to a new electrically operated system. This upgrade is made possible by a powerful 48 volt vehicle electrical system. The consequent shorter response times enable even more precision in the driving dynamics – and even more comfort overall.

World premià¨re: 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 the friction values, and wear and brake dust are reduced. The brake, exclusive to Porsche, is also visually impressive; the brake calipers are painted white, while the surface of the discs develops a unique shine appearance after bedding-in. The PSCB is only available in combination with the 20" and 21" diameter wheels. The PCCB ceramic brakes remain the top system in the range.

New Sport Chrono Package with PSM Sport
The new Cayenne offers even more potential when it comes to sporting performance. Porsche has redeveloped the Sport Chrono Package based on the model of the sports car. The Mode switch on the steering wheel is one clear hint of this approach. As well as the 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, in which the driver can utilise the new breadth of driving dynamics the Cayenne offers.

Reduced weight = lower fuel consumption and more driving pleasure
Sports cars need a lightweight construction. Following the principles of 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 floor pan 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 model. In total, the weight of the Cayenne when empty has been reduced from 2,040 to 1,985 kilograms – even considering the high level of standard equipment, which includes LED main headlights, larger wheels, ParkAssist (front and rear), digital radio and satellite navigation, an LTE telephone module including a WiFi hotspot, Porsche Connect services and anticipatory pedestrian protection.

Digital evolution: Porsche Advanced Cockpit and new PCM
With the new generation, the Cayenne is writing a fresh chapter in the relationship between driver and vehicle. The Porsche Advanced Cockpit is fully integrated into the sporting, luxurious ambience. At the heart of the new display and control concept is the 12 inch full-HD touchscreen of the latest generation 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 optional 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
The new PCM also introduces 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 specifications for lighting, driving programmes and assistance systems. Depending on the equipment, the driver can also apply their own settings to the new sound system options 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 optional 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.

Cayenne and Cayenne S market launch
The new generation Porsche Cayenne is launching in two variants, each distinguished by their outstanding driving performance. The Cayenne with a six-cylinder turbo engine and displacement of three litres delivers 340 hp (250 kW), and develops torque of 450 Nm. It accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 6.2 seconds (5.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package). The maximum speed is 152 mph.

The second model to launch is the Cayenne S. It is driven by a 2.9-litre V6 engine with twin-turbocharging. This engine, which has also been newly developed, delivers 440 hp (324 kW), plus torque of 550 Nm. Accordingly, the vehicle accelerates from zero to 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds (with Sport Chrono Package: 4.9 seconds). The maximum speed is 164 mph.

The third generation of the Porsche Cayenne is available to order from today. The Cayenne is priced from £55,965 inc VAT RRP, and for the Cayenne S from £68,330 inc VAT RRP. First deliveries to Porsche Centres will be from April 2018.

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