4 Reasons Why The Porsche Cayenne GTS Stands out

1. Almost as capable as the Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid, in the real world

Now, I am not suggesting that the non-hybrid Cayenne GTS can challenge the Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid in terms of performance. That said, the mid-level Porsche Cayenne does offer what is, often, considered the perfect amount of usable power relative to the SUV’s weight in the real world. Similar to the heavyweight Porsche Panamera Turbo E Hybrid (and its recently-announced Turbo S E Hybrid counterpart), the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid’s tech makes it a lot heavier than the non-hybrid variants. Porsche’s GT Package for the Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid does make some necessary changes, but the hybrid Porsche SUV is still a heavy hitter at 5,721 pounds. Interestingly enough, the Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid Coupe is slightly heavier than the traditional SUV’s 5,666 pounds.

Regardless, here’s how the Porsche Cayenne GTS and Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid stack up in terms of numbers:

2. The most driver-centric Porsche Cayenne

Less weight means more fun and the Cayenne GTS is a perfect example of something that shouldn’t feel as light as it does Aside from the 900-pound weight difference between the lighter Cayenne GTS and the heavyweight Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid, there are other things that the GTS benefits from. Actually, much of the Turbo E Hybrid’s performance goodies transition nicely into the lightweight (by comparison) GTS model.

The Cayenne GTS is not just a straight-line cruise missile. Cornering is its forte thanks to Porsche’s Active Ride suspension, which was also made available on the new Panamera. The innovative suspension, which features adaptive dampers, comes standard on the GTS, regardless of whether you have chosen the steel spring or air suspension. The ride height is also lowered by 0.4 inches compared to other Cayenne variants, equipped with air suspension. The Porsche Cayenne GTS also gets front-axle bearings from the range-topping Cayenne Turbo GT, which increases the negative camber for sharper, more responsive steering.

3. Aggressive new looks, but more restrained than the Turbo GT

Every GTS model in Porsche’s lineup features distinctive styling, both, exterior and interior-wise. The GTS visual treatment for the Cayenne is more or less the same as any other Porsche GTS. You get a new front fascia with larger air intakes, tinted lights front and rear, and lots of gloss-black accents around the exterior. This includes black GTS lettering, specific to the model. The Cayenne GTS also comes standard with the Sport Design package, adding high-gloss black rocker panels, window trim, wheel arches, and front apron. Red brake calipers are standard unless you go for the optional, composite or carbon-ceramic brakes. Also, as standard, you get the 21-inch Spyder RS wheels, finished in Anthracite Gray (other finish options are available), as well as the black exhaust tips of the Sport exhaust.

The Porsche Cayenne GTS’ interior stands out with the comprehensive use of Race Tex material, which is Alcantara in Porsche speak. It can be found on the roof liner, centerpieces of the sports seats, heated steering wheel, armrest, and door panels. Aside from that, it’s business as usual here as you get the same basic layout of other Cayenne variants, after the 2024 update, including the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and the optional passenger screen ($1,490). For 2025, Cayenne not only gets a new GTS trim but also makes some formerly optional equipment standard. This includes ambient lighting, soft-close doors, a Surround view with active parking support, and an improved PM 2.5 cabin filter.

4. The best value for money Porsche Cayenne?

Price is a key aspect to consider with any new (or used) car purchase. In that respect, the GTS occupies the middle of the Cayenne’s lineup. For 2025, the Porsche Cayenne starts at $86,695 while the range-topping Turbo E Hybrid starts at $158,995. The Cayenne GTS sits in the middle of the range, with a price of $126,895 (including destination and handling fee). If you want the Cayenne GTS in coupe format, you’re looking at $131,800. Listed prices are without optional equipment, but there are a couple of optional extras for the Cayenne that are worth ticking in the configurator. All things said and done, a well-spec’d range-topping Cayenne can easily surpass the $200,000 barrier, making the GTS look like great value for what it offers.

The Cayenne GTS can best be described as the Gentleman’s Porsche SUV. Its looks aren’t as shouty as the Cayenne Turbo GT, but at the same time, the GTS still lets you know it has teeth. The only significant downside to the GTS compared to the Turbo E Hybrid in my opinion, is that it lacks the capability of driving only on electricity. That said, you also don’t get the price tag that comes with it. The Cayenne Turbo E Hybrid can drive up to 45 miles on electric power alone. At the end of the day, considering Porsche’s aspirations for a mostly-electrified lineup by 2030, the Cayenne GTS is one of the best surprises in the SUV world and an adequately priced one at that.