CAYENNE is a very hot pepper and Porsche has given the E-Hybrid version of its SUV a liberal dose to make it even faster – and more comfortable.
Powered by three litres of turbo-V6 with 250kW on tap, it combines with a 100kW electric motor to generate system power of 340kW and torque of 700Nm, making it capable of sprints to 100km/h in a scant 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 253km/h.
That’s 5kW up on the previous model, but with a 43 per cent boost in torque.
The E-Hybrid’s battery pack has 30 per cent more capacity and gives the vehicle a driving range of 441km with up to 135 km/h on electricity alone.
Porsche is also expanding its range of comfort and assistance systems for the entire Cayenne series with options such as a new head-up display, massage seats and 22-inch light metal wheels.
The extent of boost support and battery charging depends on the driving mode.
In Sport and Sport Plus, virtually all of the battery’s energy can be used for boost and the other modes are aimed at maximum efficiency.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid’s 8-speed Tiptronic S drivetrain has been newly developed and now comprises a highly-integrated combination of electric engine and separate clutch for faster reaction, compared to the previous electro-hydraulic system.
You’ll probably never want to drag a trailer behind your Cayenne, but if you really want to, it will drag loads of up to 3.5 tonnes.
Australian spec Cayenne E-Hybrids will be pretty much the complete package, with Surround View, Privacy Glass, Auto-dimming exterior and interior mirrors, rear side airbags, Lane Change Assist, Comfort Memory Package and DAB+ digital radio as standard.
However, there will, of course, be many more options so you can make yours that bit more smartass than the next.
They’ll cost from $135,600 and be available in just a few months.
