The first generation Porsche Cayenne was arguably the best of SUV of the three brainchilded by Ferdinand Piech. The second generation model, however, was even better, lighter, sportier and faster than its predecessor and most of its competitors.
But the Porsche brand has made incremental improvements since the Cayenne was launched, which will have to be added added to the SUV. In Shanghai this Spring, they revealed a new Panamera, a sister car to this one, and this is where most of the technology will come from.
For the 2015 model year, the Cayenne SUV will be new, adopting many of the changes seen on the Panamera. This spy video shot in Spain shows the car undergoing testing.
For example, all non-GTS Panamera models have replaced their 4.8-liter V8 engine with a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. The same engine will likely be fitted to the Cayenne. Unfortunately, the basic 3.6-liter petrol engine isn't getting changed, but the diesel is, with a new 300 PS unit that's just as efficient but dramatically improves performance.
Porsche has also introduced a new plug-in hybrid version of the Panamera called the S E-Hybrid, which has been rumored to be offered on the Cayenne as well next year.
It's not just about engine technology. Have you ever wondered which is better, freely coasting with the gearbox in neutral or using the engine brake in a long gear and burning no fuel at all? The new Panamera is the first car to do a bit of both, cutting off the engine while you are coasting to a stop.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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