Here at MHH International, over the last year or so, we have reported on the latest hybrid news from the mighty Porsche empire as engine capacity gets smaller and electric power gets, well, more powerful. Now there’s another new Cayenne variant on the books, the Turbo E-Hybrid, and it is the most impressive model yet.
On The Outside
The Porsche Cayenne has long been a favourite in the prestige SUV sector. This latest version is available in two formats; regular and coupé. The range-topping nature of the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) and Coupé is demonstrated by the styling of the two models. Both body variants can be recognised by the distinctive nose reserved for Turbo models, with enlarged cooling air intakes accented by gloss black air-blades. The wheel arch trims and exterior-colour rear bumper further underscore the performance-focused character of the models.
The innovative, high-resolution HD-Matrix LED headlights, fitted as standard equipment, offer greater comfort and safety in the dark. Other distinguishing features of the Turbo E-Hybrid models include two twin tailpipes in brushed stainless steel. Red brake callipers round off the new features.
On The Inside
From behind the wheel, aluminium inlays in the dashboard and the door panel trims highlight the heightened focus on performance. The roof lining is trimmed in ‘Race-Tex’ fabric. The standard equipment includes a heated GT sports steering wheel, a mode switch for fast and direct selection of the desired driving mode and 18-way adjustable leather sports seats. Alternatively, 14-way adjustable leather comfort seats are available if sports seats are just too hardcore.
The new Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid also benefits from all the new features introduced in the basic model upgrade presented in early 2023. These include a new cockpit with an all-digital instrument cluster in a curved and free-standing design with variable display options, a redesigned centre console and an optional passenger display.
On The Road
Despite the fact that a big SUV can’t possibly rival the handling prowess of a 911 sports car, the German brand has, through some form of automotive magic, managed to make it a close run thing. Porsche Cayenne owners will no doubt be familiar with all the attributes of this great SUV but here’s a rundown of the latest improvements to the drive-train and ride.
An electric motor with 130kW (173bhp / 176 PS equivalent) of power supplements the extensively reworked 591bhp (599 PS / 441 kW), 4.0 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Together, the two power units deliver a combined power output of 729 bhp (739 PS / 544 kW) and a maximum torque of 950 Nm.
The performance of the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid therefore more than justifies its billing as the top of the line. The variant completes the sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 183 mph where permitted.
Compared to its predecessor, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid offers considerably greater electric range and shorter charging times. With an increased capacity of 25.9 kWh, the high-voltage battery installed beneath the load compartment floor enables an electric range of up to 82 kilometres. The new 11kW on-board charger shortens the charging time at a suitable wall charger or charging station to under two-and-a-half hours despite the increase in battery capacity.
The Turbo E-Hybrid models feature adaptive air suspension as standard, offering new two-chamber, two-valve technology. This makes it possible to adjust the rebound and compression stages of the suspension’s operation separately, hence the above reference to handling. This technology enhances comfort and safety in equal measure while offering an even wider spectrum between the Comfort and Sport Plus suspension settings.
The suspension combines confident handling in dynamic cornering with comfort-focused characteristics in slow driving situations and maximum suppression of pitch and roll, often an issue with ‘ordinary’ SUV’s. Porsche ‘Torque Vectoring Plus’ is also standard in the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) and rear-axle steering are available as ‘must-have’ options for the full experience.
Then things get even better: The optional GT Package sets a more sporting tone. It brings to the hybrid selected performance features from the normally-aspirated Cayenne Turbo GT, which is sadly being phased out in some markets. All chassis and control systems, including the air suspension, are specifically tuned for the new model.
The body sits 10 millimetres lower. GT-specific pivot bearings increase the camber on the front axle by -0.58 degrees and in combination with wider front wheels enable an even more dynamic steering response in corners, higher overall steering precision and notably enhanced cornering grip. High-performance Porsche ‘Ceramic Composite Brakes’ also come as standard in the GT Package. The dynamic qualities can be further enhanced with performance tyres for the standard 22-inch GT Design wheels, PDCC and rear-axle steering.
Porsche & MHH International
It’s fair to say now that Porsche have pretty much all corners of the premium car market covered. From famous sports cars, through saloons and small smaller SUV models to the model featured here, there is something for everyone.
MHH International export cars from the UK to various international right-hand-drive markets like New Zealand, Ireland, Kenya and the Caribbean. Find out about the availability of Porsche cars by browsing our website and by getting in touch to find out how we can help you on your way to a dream drive.