According to Porsche, the emerging markets of Eastern Europe and Asia are very keen on ‘exclusive sports-style SUVs with top-quality physical handling dynamics’. That’ll be the Cayenne, then. And perhaps the new markets’ hunger for ultimate performance is why the German marque has re-introduced the top-of-the-range Turbo S to its refreshed Cayenne range.

The 4.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 in the Turbo S delivers 542bhp, and 750Nm of torque, to thrust the Cayenne’s hefty 2355kg bulk to 62mph in 4.8 seconds. The combined fuel economy of 18.1mpg (with emissions of 358g/km) is, while not exactly ‘green’, at least no less efficient than the regular Turbo model, which has ‘just’ 493bhp – and 50Nm less torque.



Styling-wise, the Turbo S is differentiated by its 21-inch SportPlus alloy wheels and four aluminium exhaust tail-pipes. The air-intake grilles and wheelarches are body-coloured, while the new ‘Lava Gray Metallic’ paint option is exclusive to the Turbo S.

Air suspension and ride-height control are standard, along with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), and Servotronic speed-sensitive variable power steering. Carbonfibre ceramic composite brakes – 410mm at the front, 370mm at the rear – are an option.



The Turbo S will be introduced to the market from August 2008, at an international base price (ex-taxes) of 111,400 euros.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Porsche