The Porsche Cayenne S 4.8 V8 Tiptronic S, produced from 2007 to 2010, represents a significant iteration of the first-generation (955) Cayenne, benefitting from the 2007 facelift. This variant occupied a key position in the Cayenne lineup, serving as the performance-oriented mid-range model, bridging the gap between the base V6 and the range-topping Cayenne Turbo. It aimed to deliver a blend of Porsche’s renowned driving dynamics with the practicality of a luxury SUV, appealing to buyers seeking both performance and everyday usability. The “Tiptronic S” designation refers to the advanced automatic transmission with manual shift capability, a defining feature of this specific configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne (955, facelift 2007) |
| Type | S 4.8 V8 (385 Hp) AWD Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 20.2 l/100 km (11.6 US mpg, 14 UK mpg, 5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 329 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 171.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.1 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 capacity | 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 (min) | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 1770 l (62.51 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4798 mm (188.9 in.) |
| Width | 1928 mm (75.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2200 mm (86.61 in.) |
| Height | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2855 mm (112.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Rear track | 1662 mm (65.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Approach angle | 28.6° |
| Departure angle | 22.8° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20.4° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cayenne S 4.8 Tiptronic S lies Porsche’s naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the M48.01. This engine is a significant departure from the earlier, smaller displacement engines offered in the Cayenne. It features direct fuel injection (DFI), a technology that improves both power and fuel efficiency by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased performance. The 4.8L V8 produces 385 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and all-wheel-drive configuration contribute to balanced handling. Paired with the engine is the Tiptronic S six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection. The Tiptronic S features quicker shift times compared to the standard Tiptronic, enhancing the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Cayenne S 4.8 Tiptronic S delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the base V6 models. The higher horsepower and torque figures translate to quicker acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. While not as brutally fast as the Cayenne Turbo, the S model provides ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The Tiptronic S transmission, while smooth in automatic mode, allows for more spirited driving when shifted manually. The gear ratios are tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy, but the emphasis is clearly on performance. Compared to the manual transmission equipped S models, the Tiptronic S offers a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic, but sacrifices some of the direct connection and engagement favored by driving enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cayenne S 4.8 Tiptronic S came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its position as a mid-range luxury SUV. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Bose audio system, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their Cayenne. Popular options included adaptive air suspension, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, rear seat entertainment, and various interior trim packages. The interior design was characterized by Porsche’s typically high build quality and attention to detail, with a focus on functionality and driver comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne S 4.8 Tiptronic S features a robust chassis designed to handle the increased power output. It utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and performance, offering a good compromise between the two. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control. The Cayenne S typically featured a slightly thicker stabilizer bar compared to the base models, further improving handling stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cayenne S 4.8 Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was relatively poor, especially considering the vehicle’s size and weight. Compared to the base V6 Cayenne, the S model offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for buyers prioritizing driving dynamics. Against the Cayenne Turbo, the S model represented a more sensible option for those who didn’t require the ultimate in performance. The 1.8L and 1.9 TDI versions of the smaller Cayennes were aimed at a different market segment, prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs over outright performance.
Legacy
The Porsche Cayenne S 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 engine and drivetrain. The V8 engine is generally considered robust, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial. The Tiptronic S transmission, while generally reliable, can be susceptible to issues if not properly maintained. Today, well-maintained examples of the Cayenne S 4.8 are sought after by Porsche enthusiasts and collectors, offering a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. The vehicle represents a pivotal moment in Porsche’s history, demonstrating the brand’s ability to successfully enter the luxury SUV market.
