Porsche’s Latest Cayenne Considers Itself a 911 GTS | Carscoops

      The refreshed combustion SUV is incorporating adaptive cooling vents from the new hybrid sports car.

      Porsche Cayenne prototypes with a facelift are currently undergoing testing.

      The upgraded gasoline-powered SUV features a front grille filled with vertical cooling slats.

      An electric version of the Cayenne will be introduced next year, but internal combustion engine (ICE) models will remain available beyond 2030.

      Next year, Porsche will expand its electric vehicle lineup with the launch of the Cayenne Electric, marking the first battery-operated variant of its top-selling model. To maintain the Cayenne's leading position in sales and avoid a drastic decline, Porsche is ensuring the continuation of the combustion model through a well-known facelift.

      Additionally, Porsche is Testing the Cayenne EV with two different levels of spiciness.

      The Cayenne received a significant update for 2024, and while the visual modifications may not have been immediately noticeable, the technical enhancements were considerable, including the reintroduction of V8 power for the mid-tier S model and a significant upgrade in interior technology. This update is part of Porsche's strategy to keep the Cayenne competitive even after the electric version starts hitting dealerships, and another facelift is the logical next move.

      Design Elements Inspired by the 911

      This time, Porsche's design team has drawn inspiration from the latest 911, incorporating similar vertical cooling slots on the outer sections of the front bumper that were first seen in the 2024 GTS hybrid 911. If they operate like those on the 911, these electronically-controlled slots will automatically close to enhance aerodynamics or open to provide cooling air to the radiators during high engine performance.

      The horizontal bars in front of these slots on this prototype are merely part of the camouflage and will not be included in the final production version of the Cayenne. This is why the typically horizontally arranged daytime running light strip is now positioned vertically on the bumper. It’s important to note that this bumper design may be exclusive to specific trims, with lower-tier Cayennes possibly featuring a different appearance.

      Some elements introduced in the 2024 update, like the more angular headlights, will carry over, and it is unlikely that Porsche will make many alterations to the interior either. The current dashboard already reflects the modern Porsche design, thanks to the last refresh that included a toggle gear shifter, a fully digital instrument cluster, and an optional infotainment touchscreen for the passenger side.

      Improved Performance and More Choices

      The refreshed Cayenne and Cayenne Coupe are expected to debut for the 2027 model year with an engine lineup similar to the current SUV but with slightly more power and additional range for the hybrid versions. By that time, Porsche will have also revealed the Cayenne Electric, providing buyers of its best-selling nameplate with more options than ever before.