The Porsche Cayenne entered the market with mixed anticipation. However, it soon proved that it was the performance vehicle among SUV's and was praised for its excellent handling and powerful engines.[2] The lineup initially consisted of the V8-powered Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo. Later in the model cycle, VR6 and diesel-powered versions joined the lineup.
The base model is powered by a 3.2-L VR6 engine producing 250 PS (184 kW); modifications in the exhaust manifold allow power to peak at 6700 rpm. This is the same motor found on the Volkswagen Touareg and Volkswagen Golf R32. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (97 km) is 7.5 seconds with manual transmission and 8.1 seconds with the Tiptronic S.
The first-generation Cayenne Turbo had 450 PS (331 kW), and accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.3 seconds.[3] A Turbo S version was built in 2006 to compete with the Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG. The Cayenne Turbo S included a low-range case, a locking differential, and the height-adjustable, off-road suspension also standard on the regular Turbo model. It was powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.5-L V8 that produced 521 PS (383 kW) and 720 N·m (530 lb·ft) of torque. Acceleration from 0–60 mph (96 km/h) was 5.0 seconds and the top speed was 171 miles per hour. It featured a six-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission.
A new Turbo model, featuring a larger 4.8-L engine, was revealed at the 2008 Beijing auto show. It produced 50 PS (37 kW) more power, and now accelerated from 0–60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.9 seconds.[5] Also revealed with the new Turbo was a new 550-horsepower (410 kW) Turbo S. Acceleration from 0–60 mph is 4.7 seconds and it has optional ceramic composite brakes.