Cayenne Series 2

PORSCHE pulled a rabbit out of a hat by building a bigger and stiffer yet lighter, more fuel efficient and smaller-appearing second-generation Cayenne SUV.

Weight saving technologies including new “active and extra-light” all-wheel drive system reduced total weight on the mid-range Cayenne S by 180kg “despite the improvement of product substance and an even higher standard of safety”, improving efficiency as well as performance and handling dynamics.

The debut of a hybrid was complemented by 23 per cent improvements in economy for the naturally-aspirated and turbocharged V8s and a 20 per cent reduction in the entry-level V6’s thirst.

The improved fuel efficiency came from a range of technologies including a new eight-speed transmission, updated engines and the aforementioned weight reduction measures.

The Cayenne received a 40mm increase in wheelbase and a 48mm hike in overall length plus a higher-quality, better packaged and more flexible interior with a rear bench seat that could slide 160mm fore-aft and had a backrest adjustable over three positions.

The entry-level V6 diesel Cayenne could complete the 0-100km/h dash in 7.8 seconds and returned average fuel consumption of 7.8L/100km – bettering the more performance-oriented hybrid’s 8.2L/100km.