Overview
Boasting lofty horsepower ratings and prices that could be mistaken for mortgages, the Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S are two SUVs reserved for the rich and famous. While their bulky proportions and raised ride heights place them at the opposite end of the spectrum from the sports cars prized by Porsche purists, these Cayenne siblings nonetheless embody the company’s trademark design elements and thrilling driving character. Their herculean V-8 powertrains provide both astonishing acceleration and substantial towing capacity. Inside, each version treats occupants to opulent surroundings and seemingly endless personalization options. These excessive crossovers are mostly unattainable; they please the affluent and tease the rest of us.
What’s New for 2018?
With an all-new Cayenne Turbo making its debut for 2019, Porsche skips updating the current-generation models for 2018, their final production year. Still, buyers can expect the same premium quality and incredible performance that cemented the 520-hp Cayenne Turbo and 570-hp Turbo S near the top of the ultra-luxury crossover pyramid back before such vehicles were in vogue.
Pricing
2018 MSRP:
- Turbo AWD: $119,150
- Turbo S AWD: $162,650
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Despite their size and height disadvantage, these ridiculously powerful crossovers will devour smaller sports cars at the drag strip and—more likely—on family road trips. Each Cayenne Turbo model makes ungodly power from a force-fed V-8 mated to a terrific eight-speed automatic transmission. What’s even crazier? These Porsche siblings aren’t even the quickest of their kind. The 2018 Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S have the same engine and transmission as they did before. But the next-generation Cayenne Turbo arrives in 2019, with all-new powertrain choices that could potentially include a hi-po hybrid. With shocking straight-line acceleration and impressive cornering capabilities, the Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S are hard-core family haulers. Their supercar-worthy powertrains and fantastic chassis allow them to simultaneously serve as elegant daily drivers and spontaneous thrill rides.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Porsche spared no expense when crafting the Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S interiors with luxurious details and opulent options. While these high-end Cayennes pamper their passengers, more options should be standard at this price, and adding too many makes them absurdly expensive. While both Cayenne Turbo models pack a lot of horsepower, they can’t pack as many small items or as much luggage as more commodious alternatives. On the other hand, purists who crave the Porsche badge and more cargo and storage space than any 911 model can offer will be satisfied.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S includes a responsive touchscreen with user-friendly controls. However, personalization options are minimal, and the most desirable feature, such as a rear-seat entertainment system and a 1000-watt Burmester stereo, will drain your piggy bank even faster. Although the all-new 2019 Cayenne Turbo will include more standard features such as Apple CarPlay and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, the 2018 version uses the same system and offers the same features as in 2017.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Porsche Cayenne Turbo / Turbo S’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer’s CPO program.
