The Porsche Cayenne (955) S 4.5 V8 Tiptronic S, produced from 2002 to 2006, represented Porsche’s initial foray into the luxury SUV market. This variant occupied a mid-to-high position within the 955 generation Cayenne lineup, offering a significant step up in performance and refinement compared to the base V6 models. It was positioned below the range-topping Cayenne Turbo, catering to buyers seeking a blend of Porsche driving dynamics and SUV practicality. The 955 generation, built on the Volkswagen Group’s PL71 platform (shared with the Volkswagen Touareg and Audi Q7), aimed to deliver a sporting experience previously unheard of in the SUV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne (955) |
| Type (Engine) | S 4.5 V8 (340 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.9 l/100 km (11.3 US mpg, 13.5 UK mpg, 4.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 361 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 242 km/h (150.37 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2500 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M48.00 |
| Engine displacement | 4511 cm3 (275.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold 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 | 1770 l (62.51 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 4782 mm (188.27 in.) |
| Width | 1928 mm (75.91 in.) |
| Height | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2855 mm (112.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1662 mm (65.43 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.39 |
| 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 mm |
| 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 109Y |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cayenne S was the M48.00, a 4.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, derived from Porsche’s successful motorsport experience, featured a 90-degree V-angle for optimal balance and smoothness. It utilized a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and high-rpm performance. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering. The engine produced 340 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. Paired with this engine was the Tiptronic S six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection. The Tiptronic S featured quicker shift times compared to the standard Tiptronic, enhancing the sporty driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Cayenne S 4.5 V8 Tiptronic S delivered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the base V6 models. While not as brutally quick as the Turbo, the V8 provided ample power for confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 6.8 seconds, and the vehicle could reach a top speed of 150.37 mph. The Tiptronic S transmission, while smooth, wasn’t always the quickest to respond, especially in automatic mode. However, utilizing the manual shift function allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various conditions, contributing to the Cayenne’s surefooted handling. The suspension, tuned for a balance between comfort and control, offered a relatively compliant ride without sacrificing stability during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cayenne S came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their preferences. Popular options included a sunroof, navigation system, heated seats, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design was typically Porsche – functional, well-built, and focused on the driver. The dashboard layout was relatively straightforward, with clearly labeled controls and a prominent central display screen.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne S utilized a robust chassis designed to handle the V8 engine’s power and the vehicle’s weight. The suspension featured double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measured 350mm in diameter, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cayenne S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted the relatively high fuel consumption and the somewhat sluggish response of the Tiptronic S transmission in automatic mode. Compared to the base V6 Cayenne, the S offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Against the Cayenne Turbo, the S represented a more sensible option for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in performance. The V6 models offered better fuel economy, but lacked the V8’s power and refinement.
Legacy
The M48.00 V8 engine proved to be a reliable powerplant, with many examples still running strong today. However, like all complex vehicles, the Cayenne S is not without its potential maintenance issues. Common concerns include cooling system leaks, air suspension problems, and occasional electrical glitches. The Tiptronic S transmission, while generally durable, can require expensive repairs if not properly maintained. Despite these potential issues, the Cayenne S remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a Porsche SUV with a proven track record and a relatively affordable price point. Its introduction marked a pivotal moment for Porsche, expanding the brand’s reach and establishing its presence in the burgeoning luxury SUV segment.
