New Porsche Cayenne Coupe Turbo GT range-topper arrives

Porsche has unveiled a new £144,000, range-topping model for its large SUV line-up called the Cayenne Turbo GT. Available only in four-seat Cayenne Coupe form, the new Turbo GT variant hits back at high-performance rivals such as the Lamborghini Urus thanks to a tuned version of Porsche’s 4.0-litre V8 which now produces 631bhp and 850Nm of torque - increases of 89bhp and 50Nm respectively over what was the most potent ICE version in the line-up, the Cayenne Turbo.

Using the upgraded engine combined with a recalibrated eight-speed automatic gearbox that now shifts quicker, four-wheel drive and launch control, the Turbo GT sprints from 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds and will hit a top speed of 186mph.

However, there is more to the new halo model than straight-line performance. The engine breathes through a new titanium sports exhaust with twin central-exit tailpipes, giving a fruitier sound. The new material and the omission of a centre silencer helps save weight, and combined with a tuned chassis set-up, it makes this Turbo GT the most agile Cayenne in the line-up, according to Porsche.

The retuned three-chamber adaptive air suspension system means the Turbo GT sits up to 17mm lower than the regular Cayenne Coupe Turbo, while the system’s calibration has been tweaked to improve handling.

The suspension is also up to 15 per cent more rigid than its sibling’s set-up, while the Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management’s adjustable dampers feature reprofiled settings. These have been tuned together with the electronic power steering set-up and the Turbo GT’s recalibrated rear-axle steering to optimise the SUV’s handling.

This is also true of Porsche’s Dynamic Chassis Control, which has been tweaked for even more stability and turn-in grip, while the Porsche Torque Vectoring tech is now more aggressive to further boost traction and agility.

The Turbo GT features 22-inch alloy wheels, which are one-inch wider than those fitted to the Cayenne Turbo. The new wheels are wrapped in bespoke Pirelli P Zero Corsa performance tyres, while the front suspension has just under half a degree more negative camber to improve grip. Porsche’s ceramic-composite brakes are fitted as standard.

A new, subtly enhanced body kit with many carbon fibre trim parts and a 25mm larger deployable rear spoiler helps to generate up to 40kg more downforce at top speed compared with the regular Cayenne Coupe Turbo.

Modifications inside continue to set the Turbo GT apart from the rest of the range with extended Alcantara trim, electrically adjustable sports seats and a pair of bucket seats in the rear (all upholstered in GT-specific trim with ‘turbo GT lettering on the headrests), meaning the Turbo GT is a four-seater only.

Porsche’s latest infotainment updates have been applied, so the new Cayenne model features Porsche Communication Management 6.0, which supports Apple CarPlay but now also Android Auto too. The Cayenne Coupe Turbo GT is on sale now with prices starting from £143,910. Deliveries begin in autumn.

Click here for our prototype drive of the facelifted Porsche Cayenne Coupe...