The Porsche Cayenne II 3.6 V6 Tiptronic, produced from 2010 to 2014, represented a key offering in the second generation (958) of Porsche’s popular luxury SUV. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Cayenne lineup, it bridged the gap between the base V6 models and the higher-performance V8 variants. This configuration aimed to deliver a balance of performance, comfort, and efficiency for buyers seeking a versatile luxury SUV. It was a significant model for Porsche as it broadened the appeal of the Cayenne beyond the enthusiast market, attracting customers prioritizing practicality and refinement alongside the Porsche driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (300 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 236 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197 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 | M55.02 |
| 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 | 11.7:1 |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800 kg (6172.94 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 | 4846 mm (190.79 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm (8.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Approach angle | 26° |
| Departure angle | 24.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.5° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| 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 | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cayenne II 3.6 V6 Tiptronic is the M55.02 engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (DFI) to enhance efficiency and power output. The DFI system injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for more precise fuel control and a higher compression ratio of 11.7:1. The engine features four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall performance. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and all-wheel-drive configuration are standard Porsche engineering practices, optimizing weight distribution and handling. The “Tiptronic” transmission is a sophisticated 8-speed automatic gearbox. It offers both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to select gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, contributing to a refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.6 V6, coupled with the 8-speed Tiptronic transmission, provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.4 seconds, and top speed was limited to 143 mph. While not as overtly sporty as the Cayenne S or Turbo models, the 3.6 V6 offered sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Tiptronic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency. In automatic mode, the transmission would shift smoothly and proactively, adapting to driving conditions. The manual shift mode allowed for more driver control, enabling precise gear selection for spirited driving or navigating challenging terrain. Compared to the base V6 Cayenne, the 3.6 V6 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more accessible than the higher-end models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cayenne II 3.6 V6 Tiptronic came standard with a comprehensive list 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 depending on the market, but generally offered packages that added cosmetic enhancements, upgraded interior materials, and additional convenience features. The interior design was typical Porsche, emphasizing quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The dashboard featured a prominent center console with intuitive controls, and the seats provided excellent support and comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne II utilized a robust chassis with a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The Cayenne II 3.6 V6 Tiptronic was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The all-wheel-drive system, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction in various driving conditions. The standard tire size was 255/55 R18, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cayenne II 3.6 V6 Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and capable performance. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a luxury SUV of its size, averaging around 24 mpg combined. Compared to the Cayenne S and Turbo models, the 3.6 V6 offered a more affordable entry point into the Cayenne lineup, while still delivering a premium driving experience. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electronic components. The 3.6 V6 offered a compelling alternative to competitors like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.
Legacy
The Porsche Cayenne II 3.6 V6 Tiptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of luxury, performance, and practicality makes it an appealing option for buyers seeking a versatile SUV. The M55.02 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. While the Cayenne II has been superseded by newer generations, the 3.6 V6 Tiptronic continues to be appreciated for its classic Porsche design and driving dynamics. Its position as a mid-range offering broadened the Cayenne’s appeal and helped establish it as a leading player in the luxury SUV segment.
