New Porsche Cayenne GTS for order

The top-shelf Cayenne GTS introduced in 2007 will be replaced with a new version this year.

Expected on Porsche's stand at this year's Auto China show in Beijing late April, the second-generation Cayenne GTS is scheduled for local showrooms in September. Pricing will start at $164,900 making it the second-most expensive Cayenne under the Turbo model, at $245K, and slightly above the Hybrid at $160,800.

The new Cayenne GTS is more powerful with 309kW from the naturally-aspirated 4.8-litre V8, compared to the previous version's 294kW. Torque output is also higher, at 515Nm from 3500 revs. The Tiptronic six-speed transmission has been replaced for the new Tiptronic S eight-speed auto, with paddle-shift.

Fuel consumption is rated at 10.7L/100km; a significant improvement on the previous model's 13.9 and helped in part to the implementation of a stop-start system; fitted as standard.

According to Porsche, the engine and transmission have been "specially calibrated to provide instant bursts of speed." The 0-100km/h sprint takes 5.7sec and top speed is 261km/h.

Like the first-generation Cayenne GTS, the new model boasts Porsche's suspension management system which can lower the ride height by 24mm (compared to the Cayenne S model) for "extra composure and agility", and PTM (for Porsche Traction Management) permanent all-wheel-drive system.

The GTS is distinct from the 'lesser' Cayennes by its wider wheelarches and 'twin deck' rear roof spoiler. Expect a choice among designs of 21-inch wheels and standout exterior colours from Porsche's new Tequipment range.

New Cayenne GTS is available for order from Porsche dealers now, with deliveries expected from September.

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