2008 Porsche Cayenne

Our test Cayenne S’s 4.8-liter V-8 generates a healthy 385 hp and 369 lb.-ft., meets ULEV (ultra low-emissions vehicle) numbers and delivers 13 mpg EPA city and 19 highway. With its six-speed Tiptronic S transmission, it can hit 60 mph in 6.4 sec. and 155 mph top end. The GTS’ enhanced 4.8-liter V-8 uses a larger, better-breathing intake system to boost its output to 405 hp. The Turbo’s twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V-8 pumps out 500 hp and 516 lb.-ft. to propel it from 0 to 60 in 4.9 sec., and to a top speed of 171 mph.


Both base Cayenne and GTS offer a choice of standard six-speed manual (the GTS is the first North American Porsche to pair a V-8 with a six-speed manual) or optional Tiptronic S automatic transmission, while the S and Turbo get the Tiptronic S as standard. Manual trans models have a Porsche Drive-Off Assistant (PDOA) feature that applies the brakes to prevent rolling back when the clutch is disengaged on an uphill slope, and the automatic offers similar roll-back prevention with a Hill-Holder function.

Sleeker New Look

The new Cayenne front end has a more swept-back shape with headlights moved to the outside and covered by clear glass. Its wheel openings, outside mirrors and rear roof spoiler are reshaped to improve both appearance and aerodynamics. Its drag coefficient—hugely important to highway fuel economy—is 0.35 vs. 0.38 to 0.39 for previous models.


The interior offers a near-perfect blend of luxury, sport and function with large, readable gauges and supportive 12-way adjustable leather front buckets. The leather-covered steering wheel offers easy to use shift paddles for its Tiptronic S transmission and excellent audio controls on its spokes. A set of serious-looking rockers on the center console order up all-wheel-drive, ride height and ride control settings. Porschephiles will be pleased with the ignition switch located, as always, left of the steering wheel (others less so). Other complaints: narrow cup holders, no “Aux” input for the high-zoot audio, and rear seat headrests that must be removed to fold the seats down flat.

New Technologies

Cayenne V-8s get VarioCam-Plus variable valve control for 2008, and new optional Dynamic Curve Lights (standard on Turbo) enhance the night view in curves. Standard Porsche Stability Management (PSM)—which communicates continuously with Traction Management but intervenes only when the tires reach their traction limit—now includes Trailer Stability Control, off-road ABS and brake pre-loading when needed. The available Dynamic Chassis Control’s active anti-roll bars counteract body roll in turns to improve on-road comfort, handling and safety and off-pavement traction.