Will plug the gap between the base E-Hybrid and top-spec Turbo E-Hybrid.
Porsche has introduced a new mid-table $178,300 Cayenne S E-Hybrid model in its electrified Cayenne range, adding one more derivative to the recently refreshed luxury SUV range. Featuring an uprated V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain, the new model will sit neatly between the existing E-Hybrid and Turbo E-Hybrid.
Core to the new S E-Hybrid is its powertrain, which utilises a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and an e-motor to create a maximum 382kW and 750Nm of torque – around 30kW and 100Nm above the standard E-Hybrid. This allows it to break the 5.0-second barrier to 100km/h with a time of 4.9 seconds, or 4.7 if fitted with the optional Sport Chrono package.
As per all hybrid Cayenne models, a major upgrade was made to the lithium-ion battery pack during a recent update, with the new version now packing a more substantial 25.9kWh capacity. Electric range has grown to around 85km, which – also thanks to the more powerful e-motor in this latest Cayenne – means most day-to-day journeys can easily be made using only battery power.
On top of the upgrades under the new bonnet, the S also has more standard equipment than the base hybrid including 20-inch wheels, quad silver exhaust outlets and Matrix LED headlights. Inside, the updated interior is as per other new Cayennes with its curved digital dial pack and redesigned centre console. Leather trim on 8-way power adjustable seats is standard on the Cayenne S, but like all Porsches there is a substantial options list that allows customers to personalise their Cayenne to an almost obscene level.
With the hybrid powertrains now finished, the new Cayenne range is only missing one more variant in the shape of the Cayenne GTS model, which will be the most powerful non-electrified version in lieu of the previous Turbo which will not be renewed. The new Cayenne S E-Hybrid is on sale now, with production already underway.