ROTIMI ASHER
New generation of Porsche’s most successful SUV model line was on Thursday launched into the Nigerian market.
Held at Porsche Centre Lagos (the premium vehicle division of Stallion Motors Limited), the colourful event, which was witnessed by the nation’s motoring journalists, revealed a completely redesigned first off-road variant from the German automaker.
Styling
The new Cayenne comes with bold design, which delivers a more streamlined, athletic impression to complement an increased length and lower height.
Underlining its improved driving dynamics from the front are pronounced bonnet, redesigned headlight contour and trademark large air intakes. The car’s narrower side windows, a redesigned rear wing, wide rear end with integrated light strip and wider alloy wheels further enhance and emphasise its sports car genes.
Comfort and Space
The new Cayenne offers a spacious cabin, with several comfort and convenience features throughout.
Its luggage compartment has been increased by 100 litres, just as the Porsche Advanced Cockpit concept brings the vehicle and the occupants closer through increased connectivity and intuitive controls.
Equipment& Safety
The centre console with Direct Touch Control and a new 12.3-inch touch display for the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) act as the driver’s interface to all vehicle functions.
PCM can be configured for up to six individual profiles to store a large number of interior settings, as well as specifications for lights, driving programmes and assistance systems.
Powerful turbocharged engines, enhanced chassis systems, a range off-road modes and a sharper design underpin the model’s credentials as a true sports car in its segment.
Additional enhancements to the latest generation also include intelligent assistance systems and more connectivity features aimed at offering improved driver and passenger comfort.
The new lightweight chassis of the Cayenne has been completely redesigned from scratch to deliver the optimum balance between sporty performance and comfort, and contributes to an overall weight saving of up to 65 kilograms despite an extended range of standard equipment.
With the exception of the active PASM damper system, all chassis systems are new, including the adaptive three-chamber air suspension and electric roll stabilization.
The 4D Chassis Control connects all the systems to add to the enhanced driving dynamics of the range. The Porsche Surface Coated Brakes, which come as standard in the Turbo, make a global debut and offer improved responsiveness as well as an up to 30% longer service life.
For the first time, the Cayenne is available with rear-axle steering as an option, and a mixed tyre configuration. The tyres are also larger than before, ranging from 19 to 21 inches. Both developments are derived from the 911 to improve agility, stability and safety, whilst rear-axle steering also reduces the turning circle by 0.6 metres for even greater practicality.
A true all-rounder, five pre-programmed drive and chassis modes can be activated in accordance to the terrain via the PCM.
For example, drivers can choose between Mud, Gravel, Sand and Rocks settings to adapt to the relevant conditions.
Depending on the selection made, the control unit optimally conditions the engine and chassis systems including the new Tiptronic S, the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel system and the PSM stabilisation programme. The air suspension, PASM damper system, PDCC rolling-motion compensation and the rear axle steering are also activated if the options are fitted.
General Manager Porsche Centre Lagos, Anurag Shah, said: “Since its initial launch, the Cayenne has been one of the most popular models in Nigeria, and I have no doubt that the third generation, which offers even more sports car performance and practicality, will continue this success story.
“For me, the new Cayenne’s versatility is truly unique. It is at home on any road, but it is equally ready to explore new terrain. It enjoys a short sprint as much as a long road trip, and the commute to work as much as a lap on the track. It is capable of producing a superb drive experience virtually anywhere, and that is really what sets the Cayenne apart from any other SUV. We’re very excited to be welcoming it to Nigeria today.”
Performance-Driven Engines
The third generation model range combines powerful and efficient engines with a new, responsive eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox which enhances capabilities, thanks to shorter response times and sportier ratios in the lower gears.
The six-cylinder turbo engine of the Cayenne delivers 450 Nm of torque and 340 hp, a 40 hp increase on its predecessor. It reaches 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, or just 5.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package, and has a top speed of 245 km/h.
The Cayenne S is powered by a 2.9-litre, biturbo-charged V6 engine with 440 hp (an increase of 20 hp) and 550 Nm of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds (4.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package) and boasts a top speed of 265 km/h.
With its 550 hp bi-turbo eight-cylinder engine, the Cayenne Turbo is the top model in the new generation and exceeds the engine of its predecessor by 30 hp, while the maximum torque of 770 Nm represents an increase of 20 Nm. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (or 3.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package), and achieves a top speed of 286 km/h.
Cayenne Turbo: top of the range
The Cayenne Turbo sets itself apart as the leader of the new generation. It is the first SUV to have an adaptive roof spoiler as part of its active aerodynamics.
Similar to the 911 Turbo, the spoiler adapts the aerodynamics and downforce to suit the driving conditions.
The Turbo is easily identifiable by its distinctive twin tailpipes, enlarged air intakes, double-row front-light modules and 21-inch Turbo wheels in dark titanium emblazoned with the coloured Porsche crest. The rear apron, exterior mirrors and door side trims are finished in the vehicle colour.
Adaptive sports seats with 18-way adjustment, unique stitching and raised side bolsters come as standard in the top-of-the-range model. The Turbo comes equipped with a BOSE® Surround Sound System to deliver true clarity of sound to all five seats for even more drive enjoyment.
The new Porsche Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo are now available at the Porsche Centre Lagos.
Beginning from N46,302,700 for the base model, prices of customized versions vary with the Cayenne S priced at N53,231,700 and Cayenne Turbo priced at N87,551,800.
