The announcement of the new Cayenne GTS marks not only the return of a more driver-focussed variant to Porsche’s large-SUV line-up, but also the reintroduction of V8 power to a lesser model than the range-topping Turbo.
Available with either regular five-door or fastback Coupe bodywork, the Cayenne GTS now boasts a 4-litre biturbo V8 beneath its bonnet, whose 454bhp offers a significant performance advantage over the previous generation’s blown 3.6-litre V6. When fitted with the optional Sport Chrono package, 0-100km/h acceleration is cut to 4.5 seconds (compared with 5.1), with the maximum speed raised to 270. Hunkered down some 20mm on its lowered suspension and with various bodywork modifications, it looks meaner than the standard Cayenne, too.
A newly designed and more tuneful exhaust system with twin oval tailpipes is also part of the GTS package, as well as eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission that’s been optimised to match the V8 power unit’s characteristics. It also gets active suspension management and enhanced torque vectoring as standard equipment.
On the inside, special Sport Design and GTS accents enhance the car’s exclusivity, along with the use of Alcantara on roof lining, seat inserts, door panels and armrests. Eight-way sports seats are also standard, with colour-accented GTS inscriptions on the headrests and matched decorative stitching.
Although European deliveries are expected to begin next month, there’s no word yet on when the new GTS models will reach this part of the world. The beginning of 2021 would be the most likely guess, however.
