Porsche Cayenne Turbo
Published: 24th October 2002
Performance normally offered only by a thoroughbred sports
car
The Cayenne Turbo opens up a new dimension in the segment,
combining truly outstanding performance with dynamic power
and an equally muscular response throughout the entire rev
range. In practical terms, this translates into sprinting
qualities quite unique in the segment: the Cayenne Turbo accelerates
from 0-62 mph in just 5.6 seconds and boasts a top speed of
165 mph (266 km/h). The newly developed V8 power unit displacing
4.5 litres, incorporating two exhaust gas turbochargers and
intercooler technology, generates a maximum output of 450
bhp (331 kW) at 6000 rpm. Maximum torque is 457 lb-ft (620
Nm) all the way from 2250 to 4750 rpm. At the same time the
engine offers excellent offroad qualities, running smoothly
and consistently even at extreme angles.
Brand-new six-speed Tiptronic S
The six-speed Tiptronic S transmission, featured as standard
on the Turbo, is a brand-new development smoothly handling
the immense torque and power of the turbocharged engine. Applying
Porsche's usual philosophy, gears can be shifted manually
via toggle switches on the steering wheel or changed simply
by briefly moving the gear selector with an extended range
of options serving to provide a safe and smooth gearshift
under offroad driving conditions.
Sophisticated chassis technology with air suspension
Porsche has developed a chassis concept ensuring outstanding
agility both in sports motoring and under tough offroad conditions.
This is based on a new axle concept, with an extra-large double-track
control arm axle resting on a subframe at the front. The rear
axle, in turn, is an elaborate multi-arm configuration with
long spring travel for even the toughest offroad driving conditions.
Air suspension comes as standard on the Cayenne Turbo and automatically lowers the entire vehicle as speed increases to provide maximum driving pleasure combined with a high level of active safety. This in conjunction with Porsche Traction Management, also fitted as standard, featuring permanent four-wheel drive and, if necessary, using a reduction gear in the torque distribution unit as well as a 100 per cent front-to-rear differential lock, makes the Cayenne Turbo a truly exceptional offroader. Ground clearance in the special offroad mode is 273 mm or 10.75”, enough for even steep ramps and extremely jagged crests. The Cayenne Turbo is equally capable when crossing bodies of water, able to handle a depth of up to 555 mm or 21.85”. Another standard feature is the newly developed Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), a variable damper system which comes in combination with air suspension. As a function of road conditions and the driver's style of motoring, PASM controls damper forces continuously through its electronic “brain”.
The Cayenne successfully passes the Porsche fade test
The Cayenne, like all other Porsche cars, fulfils all of Porsch
e's self-imposed safety standards including the brakes. Both
models have successfully passed the famous Porsche fade test,
although this is certainly not easy for a vehicle like the
Cayenne Turbo with a maximum permissible weight of 3080 kilos
and a top speed of 165 mph (266 km/h). This is precisely why
the front wheels come with an 18-inch brake system, featuring
internally ventilated 350-millimetre (13.78”) brake
discs with six-piston monobloc aluminium fixed callipers.
The rear wheels come with a 17-inch brake system, also equipped
with internally ventilated brake discs measuring 330 mm or
13.00” in diameter and four-piston monobloc fixed callipers.
Light in the bend
As well as bi-xenon headlights with automatic, dynamic headlight
range adjustment and headlight cleaning, Porsche is also introducing
controlled direction adjustment of the headlights in bends
as a world-first achievement in the Cayenne Turbo. Using sensors
measuring the steering angle and road speed, this new light
system calculates the dynamic motion of the headlights in
a bend, ensuring improved illumination of the road ahead.
Light-alloy wheels up to 20 inches in size
The Cayenne runs on specially developed aluminium wheels reducing
weight to a minimum. In standard trim the Turbo features 8J
x 18 wheels in Turbo design running on 255/55 R 18 tyres.
Larger wheels measuring 19 and even 20 inches are also available
as an option. An entirely new family of tyres for these wheels
has been developed and stringently tested for their qualities
at very high speeds. As a result, the Cayenne comes on Y summer
tyres approved for a top speed of up to 186 mph (300 km/h).
Leather and aluminium throughout the interior
The Cayenne Turbo offers a wide range of standard features.
As well as technology highlights such as air suspension and
bi-xenon headlights with curve-following control, standard
equipment includes an electrically adjustable and heated steering
wheel, electrically adjustable comfort seats at the front
with memory function, heated front and rear seats, Porsche
ParkAssistant, Porsche Communication Management complete with
a navigation module and a BOSE surround sound system. Metallic
paint is also standard, as are extensive leather finishes
and features such as the door and instrument panel trim being
finished in aluminium.
