The Porsche Cayenne II GTS 3.6 V6 Tiptronic, produced from 2014 to 2017, represents a compelling blend of performance and luxury within the second generation of Porsche’s popular SUV. This variant, part of the facelifted “958.2” series, occupied a sweet spot in the Cayenne lineup, offering a significant step up in power and handling from the base models while remaining more accessible than the range-topping Turbo. It was positioned as the driver-focused Cayenne, appealing to enthusiasts who desired a sporty SUV experience without sacrificing the practicality and refinement expected from the Porsche brand. The GTS utilized a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with Porsche’s eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, creating a vehicle capable of both spirited driving and comfortable long-distance cruising.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne II (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | GTS 3.6 V6 (440 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) | 13.2 – 12.9 l/100 km (17.8 – 18.2 US mpg, 21.4 – 21.9 UK mpg, 7.6 – 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 – 8.1 l/100 km (28.3 – 29 US mpg, 34 – 34.9 UK mpg, 12 – 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.0 – 9.8 l/100 km (23.5 – 24 US mpg, 28.2 – 28.8 UK mpg, 10 – 10.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 234 – 228 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 262 km/h (162.8 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 208.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 284.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 440 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1600-5000 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1600-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CXZA |
| Engine displacement | 3604 cm3 (219.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2865 kg (6316.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 755 kg (1664.49 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 | 1954 mm (76.93 in.) |
| Height | 1688 mm (66.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2895 mm (113.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1678 mm (66.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| 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 | 275/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cayenne GTS is the 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, designated the CXZA. This engine represents a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated V6 found in lower Cayenne trims. Utilizing direct fuel injection and variable valve timing, the CXZA produces 440 horsepower at 6000 rpm and a robust 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1600 rpm all the way to 5000 rpm. The twin-turbocharger setup provides minimal turbo lag, delivering a responsive and linear power delivery. The engine’s architecture is a 60-degree V-configuration, contributing to its smooth operation and relatively compact size. Paired with the engine is Porsche’s eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles, allowing drivers to select gears for more engaging driving. The Tiptronic S is known for its quick and precise shifts, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Cayenne GTS 3.6 V6 Tiptronic delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than its base-model counterparts. The twin-turbo V6 provides ample power for confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.9 seconds, and the vehicle boasts a top speed of 162.8 mph. The Tiptronic S transmission contributes to this performance with its rapid gear changes. While not as raw or visceral as a manual transmission, the Tiptronic S offers a good balance of convenience and control. The Cayenne’s standard Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system further enhances handling by adjusting damper settings in real-time to optimize ride comfort and body control. Compared to the Cayenne Turbo, the GTS offers a slightly firmer ride and more direct steering feel, prioritizing driver engagement over outright luxury.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cayenne GTS came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a panoramic sunroof. Exterior styling cues included unique front and rear fascias, blacked-out exterior trim, and larger exhaust outlets. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and various customization options through Porsche’s “Personalization Plus” program. Interior color choices were extensive, allowing buyers to tailor the cabin to their preferences. The GTS trim generally avoided the more opulent features of the Turbo model, focusing instead on sporty aesthetics and performance-oriented equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne GTS utilizes a fully independent suspension system, with double wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides excellent ride quality and handling characteristics. The GTS also benefits from a slightly lowered ride height compared to other Cayenne models, further enhancing its stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Porsche’s Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) were available as an option for even greater braking performance. The Cayenne’s all-wheel-drive system, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed to maximize traction in all conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cayenne GTS 3.6 V6 Tiptronic was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Reviewers consistently highlighted the engine’s strong power delivery and the transmission’s responsiveness. Fuel economy, while not exceptional for an SUV of this size, was considered reasonable for the performance on offer. Compared to the base Cayenne, the GTS offered a significant upgrade in driving dynamics and overall refinement. Against the Cayenne Turbo, the GTS provided a more focused driving experience at a lower price point. Reliability reports suggest that the CXZA engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the turbochargers and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Cayenne GTS 3.6 V6 Tiptronic has established itself as a desirable used SUV, appreciated for its performance, build quality, and Porsche pedigree. The CXZA engine, while requiring diligent maintenance, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly cared for. Today, these Cayennes represent a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a sporty and luxurious SUV without the higher price tag of newer models. The combination of a powerful engine, capable chassis, and well-appointed interior ensures that the Cayenne GTS remains a relevant and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.
