The Porsche Cayenne GTS 4.8 V8 Tiptronic S, produced from 2008 to 2010, represents a performance-oriented variant within the 955 facelift generation of Porsche’s popular SUV. Positioned above the base Cayenne and Cayenne S models, the GTS aimed to bridge the gap between luxury and outright sportiness, offering a more engaging driving experience without the extreme price tag of the Cayenne Turbo. This model year saw a mid-cycle refresh of the 955 platform, incorporating styling updates and refined interior appointments. The GTS, with its naturally aspirated V8 engine and advanced Tiptronic S transmission, became a favored choice for enthusiasts seeking a dynamic and capable SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne (955, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | GTS 4.8 V8 (405 Hp) AWD Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 20.6 l/100 km (11.4 US mpg, 13.7 UK mpg, 4.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg, 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 332 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 251 km/h (155.96 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 180.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 405 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 3500 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6700 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M48.01 |
| Engine displacement | 4806 cm3 (293.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt, 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 18 l (19.02 US qt, 15.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2245 kg (4949.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3080 kg (6790.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 835 kg (1840.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1749 l (61.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal, 22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1957 mm (77.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2200 mm (86.61 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2855 mm (112.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 194 mm (7.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Approach angle | 25.6° |
| Departure angle | 21.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.2° |
| Wading depth | 476 mm (18.74 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×28 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 295/35 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 10J x 21 |
INTRODUCTION
The Porsche Cayenne GTS 4.8 V8 Tiptronic S, launched in 2008 as part of the 955 facelift, was designed to offer a more focused driving experience than the standard Cayenne models. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s PL71 platform (internally known as the 955), the Cayenne GTS aimed to deliver the performance characteristics of a sports car within the body of a luxury SUV. The “GTS” designation, historically used by Porsche for Gran Turismo Sport models, signified a commitment to enhanced handling and driver engagement. The Tiptronic S transmission, a sophisticated six-speed automatic, was a key component in delivering this experience. This variant occupied a middle ground in the Cayenne lineup, offering a substantial performance upgrade over the base and S models, but without the higher cost and complexity of the Turbo.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cayenne GTS lies the M48.01 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a member of Porsche’s V8 family, features direct fuel injection (DFI) and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The DFI system optimizes combustion efficiency and contributes to the engine’s impressive power output. The engine produces 405 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. The Tiptronic S transmission is a six-speed automatic with a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to select gears for greater control. This transmission features adaptive shift programming, adjusting shift points based on driving style and road conditions. The transmission is designed to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine and provide smooth, responsive gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The Cayenne GTS Tiptronic S delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience compared to the standard Cayenne. While the Tiptronic S transmission offers convenience, it’s tuned for quicker shifts and a more direct feel than the standard Cayenne’s automatic. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.2 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 155.96 mph. The GTS’s suspension is also tuned for performance, with stiffer springs and dampers that reduce body roll and improve handling. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions. Compared to the manual transmission equipped GTS, the Tiptronic S offers slightly reduced acceleration due to the inherent losses in the torque converter, but provides a more comfortable and accessible driving experience for a wider range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cayenne GTS came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. Exterior features included unique GTS styling cues, such as a distinctive front fascia, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included adaptive air suspension, which further enhanced ride comfort and handling, as well as a panoramic sunroof, upgraded interior trim materials, and a rear seat entertainment system. The interior typically featured sport seats with enhanced bolstering, providing greater support during spirited driving.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne GTS utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The GTS is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Front brakes measure 350×34 mm, while rear brakes are 330×28 mm. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The GTS typically featured a slightly thicker stabilizer bar compared to the base Cayenne, further reducing body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cayenne GTS was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It was often lauded as the “sweet spot” in the Cayenne lineup, offering a significant performance upgrade over the base models without the added cost and complexity of the Turbo. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, with the V8 engine consuming a considerable amount of fuel. Compared to the Cayenne S, the GTS offered a noticeable power increase and more aggressive styling. Compared to the Cayenne Turbo, the GTS provided a similar level of driving enjoyment at a lower price point, although the Turbo offered even greater performance and more luxurious features.
Legacy
The Cayenne GTS 4.8 V8 Tiptronic S has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, although maintenance costs can be high due to the complexity of the Porsche drivetrain. The naturally aspirated V8 engine is generally considered robust, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial. The Tiptronic S transmission, while sophisticated, can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Today, the Cayenne GTS represents a compelling option in the used SUV market for enthusiasts seeking a performance-oriented vehicle with Porsche pedigree. Its combination of power, handling, and luxury continues to appeal to buyers looking for a versatile and engaging driving experience.
