The Porsche Cayenne III Coupe S 4.0 V8 Tiptronic S, introduced in July 2023 as part of the facelift for the third-generation Cayenne, represents a high-performance iteration of Porsche’s luxury SUV. Positioned as a premium offering within the Cayenne lineup, it combines a potent twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Porsche’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. This variant caters to buyers seeking a blend of sporting dynamics, luxurious appointments, and the practicality of an SUV, while offering a more coupe-like silhouette than the standard Cayenne. It builds upon the foundation of the 9YA platform (Cayenne III) with enhancements focused on refinement and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayenne |
| Generation | Cayenne III (facelift 2023) Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | S 4.0 V8 (474 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 21.9 l/100 km (10.7 US mpg, 12.9 UK mpg, 4.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 12.5-13.4 l/100 km (18.8 – 17.6 US mpg, 22.6 – 21.1 UK mpg, 8 – 7.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 283-304 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 18.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 273 km/h (169.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 216.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 274 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 474 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 118.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 2000-5000 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 2000-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3996 cm3 (243.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2910 kg (6415.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 554 l (19.56 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1502 l (53.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4930 mm (194.09 in.) |
| Width | 1983 mm (78.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2194 mm (86.38 in.) |
| Height | 1678 mm (66.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2895 mm (113.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 192 mm (7.56 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 23.4° |
| Departure angle | 20.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.2° |
| Wading depth | 475 mm (18.7 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | Front wheel tires: 255/55 ZR20 Rear wheel tires: 295/45 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9J x 20 Rear wheel rims: 10.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cayenne Coupe S lies Porsche’s 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, internally designated as the M178. This engine is a significant departure from earlier Porsche engines, utilizing a hot-vee configuration where the turbochargers are located within the V of the engine block. This design minimizes exhaust gas routing, improving responsiveness. The engine employs direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves to optimize performance and efficiency. The Tiptronic S eight-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, offering smooth and rapid gear changes. It features a wider gear spread than previous iterations, contributing to both acceleration and fuel economy. Porsche’s active all-wheel-drive system, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), continuously distributes torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The Cayenne Coupe S 4.0 V8 Tiptronic S delivers a compelling driving experience. The twin-turbo V8 provides substantial torque from low engine speeds, resulting in strong acceleration. The Tiptronic S transmission is well-tuned, providing quick and seamless shifts in both automatic and manual modes. While not as overtly sporty as the Cayenne Turbo, the S model offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence in various driving conditions. Compared to the base Cayenne with the V6 engine, the V8 offers a noticeable increase in power and a more refined driving experience. Against the Cayenne E-Hybrid, the V8 prioritizes raw power and a traditional engine sound, while the hybrid focuses on efficiency and electric range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cayenne Coupe S comes standard with a comprehensive array of features, including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which adjusts the damping characteristics of the suspension. Interior appointments include leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a premium sound system. Optional extras include adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and massaging front seats, and a variety of interior trim options. The Sport Chrono Package, a popular option, adds a Sport Response button for temporary performance boosts and a lap timer.
Chassis & Braking
The Cayenne Coupe S utilizes a lightweight, multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles. This design provides a comfortable ride while maintaining precise handling. The standard brakes consist of ventilated discs on all four wheels. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are available as an option, offering superior stopping power and fade resistance. The steering system is a power-assisted rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle’s electronic stability control system (PSM) works in conjunction with the all-wheel-drive system to maintain stability and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cayenne Coupe S 4.0 V8 Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. The combination of performance and practicality was also highlighted as a key strength. Compared to competitors such as the BMW X6 M and Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 AMG Coupe, the Cayenne Coupe S was often noted for its superior handling and more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary focus, was considered acceptable for a vehicle of this type. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although the complexity of the engine and drivetrain may result in higher maintenance costs compared to simpler models.
Legacy
The Cayenne Coupe S 4.0 V8 Tiptronic S represents a significant step forward in Porsche’s SUV offerings. The engine’s robust design and the transmission’s reliability suggest long-term durability. As these vehicles enter the used car market, they are likely to hold their value well due to their performance, luxury, and the Porsche brand reputation. The combination of a powerful V8 engine, sophisticated technology, and a stylish coupe-like design ensures that the Cayenne Coupe S will remain a desirable and sought-after SUV for years to come.
