Injecting more sport into the SUV.
The ‘GTS’ moniker has played an important role in Porsche’s history and started with the iconic 1963 904 Carrera GTS. For years, the three letters had been absent from the lineup, until they were brought back in 2007 for the Cayenne GTS. The model gave drivers a more sport-oriented option without dropping the cash for a Turbo variant. Since then, the acronym has extended into the rest of the Porsche lineup and now it’s back with the Cayenne for the second time.
The first Porsche Cayenne GTS was so successful that it made up 11-percent of the model range, and that success has translated into other Porsche vehicles. The newest Cayenne GTS looks to build on that even more and keep its title of being the most successful model in Porsche’s lineup.
Instead of the naturally-aspirated V-8 found in the first-generation model, the new Porsche Cayenne GTS utilizes a factory-tuned version of the 3.6-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 found in the Cayenne S. In GTS form, the engine pounds out a healthy 440 horsepower and 442.5 lb-ft. of torque, all while using less fuel and spitting out fewer emissions than the previous-generation model. That’s enough to propel the 4,652-lb. SUV to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds or 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package. Top speed is also pushed back to 163 mph as the standard sport exhaust system roars.
The Porsche Cayenne GTS is more than just a powerful engine; the chassis has been tuned to handle the twisties and throw a smile on the driver’s face. The standard steel-spring suspension lowers the ride height by 24 mm while the optional air suspension drops by 20 mm, both working alongside with the sportier Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system. Also coming as standard are the 390 mm front and 358 mm rear brake discs with red-painted calipers from the Cayenne Turbo for better stopping power.
The exterior of the Porsche Cayenne GTS also differentiates itself from the rest of the lineup and borrows styling cues from the more hardcore variants. A Turbo front fascia incorporating the Sport Design package stares ahead with a more rugged, sport-oriented appearance. Broader side sills and extended fenders emphasize power and performance along with the roof spoiler and dynamic lower rear fascia. Large 20-inch RS Spyder wheels in black match the black exhaust tailpipes, inner housings of the bi-xenon headlights, tinted LED taillights, and black GTS lettering across the lower portion of the front doors.
The commitment to sport is evident inside the Porsche Cayenne GTS. Two eight-way adjustable GTS sport seats cradle driver and passenger with soft leather and alcantara, and GTS headrest lettering. The cabin is generously outfitted with alcantara just like many of Porsche’s performance-oriented vehicles. Owners can choose from either carmine red or rhodium silver colors that include the tachometer, stitching, headrest lettering, and seat belts in a contrasting color.
The new Porsche Cayenne GTS will make its global debut on November 19th at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show alongside the new Cayenne with naturally-aspirated V-6 engine. Pricing and release dates for North America have not been released.
Porsche Cayenne GTS Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 3.6 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-6
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Maximum Horsepower: 440 at 6,000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 442.5 lb-ft.
Transmission:
Type: Eight-speed Tiptronic S
Drive: All-wheel
Performance:
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds (4.8 seconds with Sport Chrono)
Top Speed: 163 mph
Porsche Cayenne GTS Gallery
Source: Porsche
Is the Porsche Cayenne GTS the sportiest option in the luxury SUV segment?
