Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT is a Record Setting Super SUV

By Ben McKimm - News Published: 2 Jul 2021, Last Updated: 21 Apr 2023

Porsche has a tendency to round out their most successful models with an ‘ultimate’ range-topping variant that ticks all the boxes. Take the latest Cayenne Turbo GT, a super SUV that presents enthusiasts with everything they could ask for in a performance car and more. Carefully set up to perform under situations that call for maximum performance and handling characteristics, this model is a proven performer. Lapping the 20.832 km Nürburgring Nordschleife in a time of 7:38.9 minutes, setting a new official SUV record. Let’s see what makes this beast tick.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT Specifications

Engine: Four-litre biturbo V8
Power: 471 kW / 640 HP
Torque: 850 Nm
Acceleration: 0-100km/h: 3.3 seconds
Top Speed: 300km/h
Price: from AU$336,100

Image: Porsche

To achieve such a feat the powertrain and driveline have all been given a unique set-up with outright performance in mind. The engine has found a power increase to the tune of 471 kW / 640 horsepower from the four-litre Biturbo V8. A remarkable increase with an extra 67 kW / 90 horsepower over the Cayenne Turbo Coupé and maximum torque of 850 Nm (80 Nm+). The most extensive changes were carried out in the areas of the crankshaft drive, turbocharger, direct fuel injection, induction system and intercooler which have all been upgraded to achieve these numbers. Furthermore, the 0-100 km/h sprint is reduced to 3.3 seconds (0.6 s less) and the top speed is now 300 km/h (an increase of 14 km/h).

Sheer power is awesome but not without the chassis dynamics to match. Compared to the Cayenne Turbo Coupé, the Turbo GT rides 17 millimetres lower. As such, both the passive chassis components and active control systems have been re-engineered and optimised for handling and performance. The rear steer has been adapted and the air suspension has upgraded with 15 per cent more rigidity.

Image: Porsche

The turn-in and mid-corner resemble that of a sports coupe thanks to an active roll stabilisation system that now operates with performance-oriented control software. Achieving greater dynamics with even better roll stability and road holding capabilities at higher cornering speeds. Compared to the Turbo Coupé, its front wheels are an inch wider and the negative camber has been increased by 0.45 degrees.

A good super SUV is nothing without an aggressive exterior and aesthetic. Starting with the centre twin exhaust, the new Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT delivers with more carbon fibre and Alcantara than you could poke a stick at. And the aggression doesn’t stop there, a GT-specific front apron graces the front end with a striking spoiler lip and enlarged side cooling air intakes. A contoured carbon roof and black wheel arch extensions, together with 22-inch GT Design wheels in Neodyme, dominate the side view. You find carbon side plates fitted lengthwise to the roof spoiler which is GT-specific, as are the adaptively extendable rear spoiler’s lip, which is 25 mm larger than that fitted to the Turbo increasing downforce by up to 40 kilograms.

Ben McKimm

Ben lives in Sydney, Australia. He has a Bachelor's Degree (Media, Technology and the Law) from Macquarie University (2020). Outside of his studies, he has spent the last decade heavily involved in the automotive, technology and fashion world. Turning his passion and expertise into a Journalist position at Man of Many where he continues to write about everything that interests the modern man. Conducting car reviews on both the road and track, hands-on reviews of cutting-edge technology and employing a vast knowledge in the space of fashion and sneakers to his work. One day he hopes to own his own brand.

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