The Porsche Cayenne II (facelift, produced from 2014 to 2017) represents a significant mid-cycle refresh of Porsche’s popular luxury SUV. Among the various engine and drivetrain configurations offered, the 3.6-liter V6 producing 300 horsepower paired with the Tiptronic S eight-speed automatic transmission occupied a crucial position in the lineup. This variant aimed to balance performance with everyday usability and fuel efficiency, appealing to a broader customer base than the more powerful Cayenne S or Turbo models. It served as a step up from the base V6, offering a noticeable increase in power and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne II (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (300 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 215 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CEYA |
| Engine displacement | 3598 cm3 (219.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96.4 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.65:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.2 l (13.95 US qt | 11.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2810 kg (6194.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 770 kg (1697.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 670 l (23.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1780 l (62.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 4855 mm (191.14 in.) |
| Width | 1939 mm (76.34 in.) |
| Height | 1705 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2895 mm (113.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1669 mm (65.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cayenne variant is the 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, designated as the CEYA engine code. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (DFI) to deliver fuel directly into the combustion chambers, improving efficiency and power output. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a variable valve timing system, optimizing performance across the rev range. The 300 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque are respectable figures for a naturally aspirated V6 of this displacement. The Tiptronic S eight-speed automatic transmission is a key component, offering smooth and responsive shifts. ‘Tiptronic’ allows the driver to manually select gears, providing a degree of control, while the ‘S’ designation indicates a sportier calibration with quicker shift times. The transmission is designed to work seamlessly with the engine’s power delivery, providing adequate acceleration and cruising ability.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L V6 Tiptronic Cayenne delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the Cayenne S or Turbo, it provides ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.3 seconds, which is competitive for its class. The eight-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, contributing to responsive performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the Tiptronic offers greater convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban environments. However, some driving enthusiasts might find the automatic transmission slightly less engaging than a manual. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 Tiptronic Cayenne typically came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included features like adaptive air suspension, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine/transmission combination was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base Cayenne and the higher-performance models. Interior color options were extensive, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne II utilizes a robust chassis with a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 3.6L V6 models typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability, rather than outright sportiness, although optional air suspension could significantly alter the ride quality and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.6L V6 Tiptronic Cayenne was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and adequate performance. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and weight, averaging around 25.6 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Cayenne S, the 3.6L V6 offered a lower price point and better fuel economy, but with less overall performance. The 3.6L V6 was also a more sensible choice than the diesel variants for buyers concerned about long-term maintenance costs and potential emissions regulations.
Legacy
The CEYA engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to certain issues, including oil leaks and potential for scoring of the cylinder walls if oil changes are neglected. The Tiptronic S transmission is also relatively robust, but regular fluid changes are crucial for maintaining its longevity. Today, well-maintained examples of the 2014-2017 Cayenne 3.6L V6 Tiptronic can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. They represent a good value for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV with a proven track record. However, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.
