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The latest GTS gets a significant engine upgrade with an additional 40 hp and 30 lb-ft of torque while boasting updated exterior and interior enhancements and handling upgrades from the flagship Turbo GT
by MotorheadOne on July 5, 2024, 19:30Porsche’s Cayenne is a high-performance, mid-size luxury SUV that debuted in 2003. It’s now in its third generation, which arrived in 2019. One year later, the GTS variant was unveiled, positioning itself between the S and Turbo models. For 2025, the GTS gets better than ever, thanks to an exterior facelift, new tech, handling, and power upgrades.
While the Cayenne is already recognized as one of the sportiest SUVs on the market, the GTS takes things up a notch with its potent engine. Compared to the previous model, the 2025 Cayenne GTS delivers an additional 40 horsepower and 30 pound-feet of torque from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, which also powers the Cayenne S model.
Despite its size, the Cayenne GTS isn’t only capable of impressing in a straight line. It also features a sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, massive brakes, and available rear-axle steering for impressive handling. Inside, occupants are treated to a driver-focused cabin with premium materials, supportive front seats, and cutting-edge infotainment and driver assistance technologies.
Of course, all this performance and luxury doesn’t come cheap. Available in both SUV and coupe body styles, the 2025 Cayenne GTS starts at $124,900, which puts it in the same league as high-powered German SUV rivals such as the BMW X5 M60i, Audi SQ8, and Mercedes-AMG GLE 53. So, is the 2025 Cayenne GTS, with its slight bump in power and torque and a few technological upgrades, worth the hype? Let’s find out.
- What's new?
- Aggressive styling enhancements underscore the GTS's performance focus
- Improved twin-turbo V8 now pushes out more power and torque
- Advanced suspension delivers a refined ride
- The classy interior blends tech and sporty touches
- What's it like to drive?
- How's the warranty and reliability?
- Pricing and availability
- How does the 2025 Cayenne GTS stack up against the competition?
- Conclusion
What’s new?
Exterior updates include a redesigned front fascia with larger air intakes and new 21-inch wheel designs. Tinted taillights add a unique touch, complemented by an adaptive rear spoiler, while the red-painted brake calipers provide a striking contrast.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find an updated curved glass instrument cluster, with a new generation of Porsche’s infotainment system and available GTS interior packages with bold carmine red or slate grey color schemes.
In addition to the refreshed design elements, the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine is also upgraded to deliver an additional 40 horsepower and a 30 pound-feet increase in torque, bringing total output to 493 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. Power is transmitted through a standard eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission.
On the handling front, it utilizes an air suspension system with adaptive dampers and rear-axle torque vectoring. These components are meticulously calibrated to suit the GTS performance characteristics and dynamics. Additionally, the front axle pivot bearings enhance wheel camber by 0.58 degrees for improved handling and cornering capabilities, a feature borrowed from the flagship Cayenne Turbo GT.
Aggressive styling enhancements underscore the GTS’s performance focus
The new GTS showcases its performance focus through distinctive styling enhancements. The front fascia boasts larger air intakes. Rear highlights include dark-tinted LED taillights, black chrome quad exhaust tips, and prominent "GTS" badges on the front doors and rear liftgate. A standard panoramic glass roof is complemented by an optional carbon fiber roof for weight reduction.
In a departure from earlier models, the 2025 Cayenne GTS also incorporates gloss black accents on its rocker panels, window surrounds, wheel arch extensions, and front fascia trim.
Buyers can further personalize their SUV with three Lightweight Sport Packages, offering up to 55 pounds in weight savings. These packages include a lightweight roof, carbon fiber rear diffuser, and reduced sound insulation tailored to individual preferences for vehicle enhancement.
The Cayenne rides on standard 21-inch RS spyder design wheels, finished in satin black, with optional 22-inch variants available. Huge red or black brake calipers peek through the spokes to demonstrate the vehicle’s braking capabilities.
Porsche provides an extensive color palette, including two new metallic shades exclusive to the GTS trim: Carmine Red and Moonlight Blue Metallic. Buyers can also select from standard or special colors or opt for a bespoke paint-to-sample finish.
2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS exterior dimensions
| Specifications | 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS | 2024 Audi SQ8 | Mercedes AMG GLE 53 | 2025 BMW X5 M50i |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 194.1 in. | 196.6 in. | 194.4 in. | 194.2 in. |
| Width | 78.1 in. | 78.5 in. | 79.3 in. | 78.9 in. |
| Height | 66.8 in. | 67.2 in. | 70.2 in. | 69.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 114.0 in. | 117.9 in. | 117.9 in. | 117.1 in. |
Improved twin-turbo V8 now pushes out more power and torque
At the heart of the Cayenne GTS is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 493 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant features a hot-V turbocharger layout, with the turbos nestled in the "V" of the engine for compact packaging and reduced turbo lag.
The model comes with an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission as standard this is the same transmission used in the Model S as well. In its most powerful setting, Sport Plus mode, it can accelerate to 60 mph in a reported 4.2 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 171 mph. This increased performance necessitates an independent water-cooling circuit for the Porsche Traction Management computer system borrowed from the Turbo GT. Porsche asserts that this addition enhances the Cayenne GTS’s endurance during spirited drives on curvy roads and racetracks
Despite its impressive performance, the Cayenne GTS remains relatively efficient for a high-powered SUV. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The 23.7-gallon fuel tank allows for a driving range of over 400 miles.
| Specifications | 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS | 2023 Porsche Cayenne GTS |
|---|---|---|
| Engine type | 4.0L, twin turbo V-8 | 4.0L, twin turbo V-8 |
| Power | 493 hp | 453 hp |
| Torque | 487 lb-ft | 457 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 171 mph | 167 mph |
Advanced suspension delivers a refined ride
To keep all that power in check, Porsche equips the Cayenne GTS with a sport-tuned adaptive air suspension that features three-chamber air springs and a 10mm lower ride height compared to other Cayenne models. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) continuously adjusts the damping at each wheel based on road conditions and driving style.
Rear axle steering is available to increase low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. At speeds up to 50 mph, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the fronts for a tighter turning radius. Above 50 mph, they turn in the same direction for enhanced lane change stability.
Massive 15.3-inch front and 14.1-inch rear cast iron brakes with red calipers are standard. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) with yellow calipers are optional, shedding over 40% of the rotors’ unsprung weight.
The classy interior blends tech and sporty touches
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a driver-focused interior with premium materials and cutting-edge tech. Both the driver and front passenger are greeted by an expansive array of digital displays that span the entire width of the dashboard.
A dedicated 12.6-inch screen resides behind the steering wheel, providing the driver with crucial information such as vehicle speed, tachometer readings, trip details, and various other functions. The curved glass display offers multiple configurations with crisp graphics and animations. Night vision assistance with a thermal imaging camera is available.
Positioned centrally is a 12.3-inch touchscreen equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Adjacent to it on the right, an optional 10.9-inch display serves the front passenger, allowing for video streaming capabilities.
A powerful 14-speaker Bose surround sound system with 710 watts comes standard. For the ultimate audio experience, a range-topping 21-speaker, 1,455-watt Burmester 3D High-End Surround Sound System is optional.
The heated multifunction sport steering wheel, door panels, lower dashboard, and seat centers are all wrapped in Race-Tex for a suede-like feel. The headliner is also Race-Tex. Brushed aluminum trim comes standard, with optional carbon fiber.
Seating and Cargo Space
The GTS comes standard with 8-way power-adjustable sport seats. The headrests feature embroidered "GTS" logos. 18-way adaptive sport seats and full leather upholstery are optional. Porsche offers enhanced features like supportive front seats with massage functions and four-zone climate control at an additional cost.
One of the Cayenne’s biggest advantages is its versatility and practicality. The two-row SUV comfortably seats five adults, with plenty of headroom and legroom even for taller passengers in the rear.
The rear seats fold in a 40/20/40 split and recline up to 10 degrees. With the rear seats up, the trunk area offers 22 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold them down, and that expands to nearly 54 cubic feet, enough for multiple large suitcases, outdoor gear, or a serious shopping spree.
The two outboard rear seats have LATCH anchors for securing child seats. The front passenger seat also offers an airbag deactivation sensor for safely installing a rear-facing child seat.
Throughout the cabin, you’ll find convenient storage cubbies, cup holders, door pockets, and a large center console bin. The front armrest opens to reveal two USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad.
What’s it like to drive?
The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8’s 493 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque provide impressive acceleration for its size, with Porsche claiming a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds.
The standard adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and the available rear-axle steering and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) promise a deft blend of agility and comfort. Drivers can tailor the Cayenne GTS’ responses using the steering wheel-mounted drive mode selector, with settings ranging from Normal to Sport Plus.
Inside, occupants will be treated to a sporty yet luxurious environment, with GTS-specific touches like Race-Tex upholstery, aluminum trim, and a thick-rimmed steering wheel. The 18-way adaptive sport seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for longer trips.
Safety and driver assistance features
The 2025 Cayenne GTS offers a comprehensive suite of active safety features and driver aids.
Standard equipment
-
Forward collision warning
-
Automatic emergency braking
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Lane keep assist
-
Blind-spot monitoring
-
Front and rear parking sensors
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Surround-view camera system.
Optional equipment
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Adaptive cruise control
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Lane change assist
-
Traffic jam assist
-
Night vision assist
The Cayenne GTS also features full LED matrix headlights that precisely aim the high beams around oncoming traffic, automatic high beams, and dynamic cornering lights. Porsche’s new Intersection Assist feature can automatically brake the vehicle if it detects an impending collision with crossing traffic when making a left turn.
How’s the warranty and reliability?
| Warranty coverage | Porsche Cayenne GTS |
|---|---|
| Bumper-to-bumper warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Corrosion perforation warranty | 12 years / unlimited miles |
| Complimentary scheduled maintenance | First year or 10,000 miles |
While Porsches tend to have average reliability ratings, the Cayenne has historically been one of the brand’s more dependable models. J.D. Power gives the current-generation Cayenne an above-average predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100.
Pricing and availability
The 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS starts at an MSRP of $124,900, while the GTS Coupe starts at $129,500. Porsche offers an extensive list of options that can quickly increase the price. Expect to see the updated model arrive in US Porsche dealerships in the fall of 2024.
Porsche offers two body styles for the Cayenne GTS model: the standard Cayenne GTS and the sleeker Cayenne GTS Coupe.
Both offer similar features and performance, with the main difference being the Coupe’s more rakish roofline and standard panoramic fixed glass roof. Porsche keeps the trim lineup simple, with the GTS slotting between the S and Turbo models. It comes generously equipped with features like adaptive air suspension, 21-inch wheels, the Sport Chrono Package, and GTS-specific exterior and interior styling elements.
How does the 2025 Cayenne GTS stack up against the competition?
The Cayenne GTS faces stiff competition from several high-performance luxury SUVs:
BMW X5 M60i
The BMW X5 M60i is a formidable rival, packing a 523-horsepower twin-turbo V8 that propels it to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. While it may have a slight edge in straight-line speed, the X5 M60i can’t quite match the Cayenne GTS in the twisties.
The BMW also boasts a lavish interior and a more comfortable ride, making it a better choice for those who prioritize comfort over sportiness.
Mercedes-AMG GLE 53
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 takes a different approach, using a 429-horsepower turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. While it may be down on power compared to the Cayenne GTS, the GLE 53 offers a more high-tech cabin with dual 12.3-inch displays and the MBUX infotainment system. Thanks to its standard air suspension, it also delivers a smoother ride. Pricing undercuts the Porsche by about $15,000.
Audi SQ8
The Audi SQ8 shares its underpinnings with the Cayenne GTS but uses a 500-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Its more understated interior design makes it a good choice for buyers who want a high-performance SUV without drawing too much attention.
The SQ8’s interior is also more spacious than the Cayenne’s, particularly in the rear seat. However, it can’t quite match the Porsche’s performance-focused character. Pricing starts around $90,000, significantly undercutting the Cayenne GTS.
2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS vs Competition
| Specifications | 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS | 2024 Audi SQ8 | 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 | 2025 BMW X5 M60i |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine type | 4.0 L, twin turbo V-8 | 4.0 L, twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8 | 3.0 L, intercooled turbo I-6 | 4.4 L, Twin Turbo V-8 |
| Power | 493 hp | 500 hp | 429 hp | 523 hp |
| Torque | 487 lb-ft | 568 lb-ft | 413 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
Conclusion
The 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS is a true all-rounder, blending impressive performance with the practicality and comfort today’s luxury SUV buyers demand. Its potent twin-turbo V8, agile handling, premium tech, and spacious, well-appointed cabin make it a compelling choice for those who refuse to compromise.
While it may not be the most luxurious or spacious option in its class, the Cayenne remains one of the best choices for driving enthusiasts who need an SUV’s versatility. If you’re shopping for a high-performance luxury SUV that can do it all, the Porsche Cayenne GTS should undoubtedly be a consideration. If you’re after more power, you could also consider opting for the flagship Turbo GT model, but you’ll need to cough up around $80,000 more for the upgrade, which delivers 650 hp.
FAQs
How much horsepower and torque does the Cayenne GTS produce?
The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 cranks out 493 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to propel the Cayenne GTS from 0-60 mph in as little as 4.2 seconds.
How spacious is the Cayenne GTS?
The Cayenne GTS comfortably seats 5 adults. Cargo space is also generous, with 22 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54 cubic feet with them folded. The rear seats have a 40/20/40 split and recline up to 10 degrees.
What are some of the key tech features?
The Cayenne GTS comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen running Porsche’s latest infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, the curved glass Porsche Driver Experience digital gauge cluster, a 14-speaker Bose audio system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A head-up display and 21-speaker Burmester audio sytem are optional.
What active safety and driver assistance features are available?
Standard safety tech includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, front/rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. Adaptive cruise control, lane change assist, traffic jam assist, and night vision assist are optional.
How much does the Cayenne GTS cost?
The 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS starts at $124,900, while the sleeker Cayenne GTS Coupe is $129,500. Porsche offers an extensive options list, so most buyers will spend considerably more. The Premium Package, Lightweight Sport Package, and GTS Interior Package are some notable upgrades.
Precise and dynamic: the new Cayenne GTS models
Porsche is completing its Cayenne model line, which was comprehensively revised in 2023, with the new, particularly dynamic GTS models.
The SUV and Coupé combine a powerful 368 kW (500 PS, Cayenne GTS: Fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 13.3 – 12.6 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 303 – 286 g/km, CO2 class G , Cayenne GTS Coupé: Fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 13.3 – 12.6 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 303 – 287 g/km, CO2 class G ) twin-turbo V8 engine and equally performance-driven chassis systems with everyday practicality, distinctive design elements and enhanced standard equipment.
At Porsche, the GTS abbreviation stands for Gran Turismo Sport – in practice, it means an extra dose of dynamism and long-distance capability. At its core, the Cayenne is both a high-performance sports car and an all-terrain SUV. However, for the GTS models, this balance has traditionally shifted towards improved on-road capability. With a powerful drive system, precise tuning and an exclusive design, the new Cayenne GTS remains true to this principle while remaining suited to everyday use.
Chassis technology from the Cayenne Turbo GT
The precisely honed, GTS-specific chassis and 10-millimetre-lower ride height mark an exciting development for the Cayenne GTS. Looking a little deeper, the car is now equipped with adaptive air suspension as standard, including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus). All chassis components and control systems, such as Porsche Traction Management (PTM) and the optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), are specifically designed for optimal on-road performance.
The GTS’s two-valve damper technology offers impressive responsiveness, and its two-chamber air suspension gives the car a highly dynamic spring rate while simultaneously ensuring driver comfort. The front axle pivot bearings of the Cayenne GTS models originate from the Cayenne Turbo GT (not offered in Europe). They increase the negative camber of the wheels by 0.58 degrees in comparison to other Cayenne models. The result is strikingly agile cornering and exceptional handling dynamics.
Cayenne GTS with V8 biturbo engine
In addition to the finely tuned chassis, the charismatic V8 is another important feature of the Cayenne GTS. The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, developed by Porsche and manufactured in Zuffenhausen, has undergone extensive technical revision. This has resulted in efficiency gains and a significant increase in performance: the engine now produces 368 kW (500 PS) of power – an increase of 30 kW (40 PS) compared to the previous model. The maximum torque is now 660 Nm, an increase of 40 Nm. The revised eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission noticeably improves driving performance through shorter response and shift times in Sport and Sport Plus modes.
In combination, these features give the four-door sports car truly remarkable performance. The new Cayenne GTS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. The top speed is 275 km/h. A further technical innovation is that the transfer box for the all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) features an independent water cooling circuit. This technology is also adopted from the high-performance Turbo GT model. It stabilises the continuous load capacity – for example when tackling track driving or navigating mountain routes.
Exclusive GTS-style design and equipment
All of Porsche’s GTS models are recognisable thanks to their unique, sporty design. On the Cayenne GTS this includes black ‘GTS’ lettering on the sides and rear of the car, a special front end with bigger cooling air intakes, dark-tinted headlights and tail lights, and red brake callipers. Keeping with this classic design DNA gives the car that instantly recognisable Porsche look, but with a few innovations. Body attachments such as the side skirts, front inlays, side window trims and wheel arch extensions, which all form part of the standard Sport Design package, are now manufactured in High-Gloss Black. On previous GTS models, some of these body parts were body coloured. In contrast, the sports exhaust system tailpipes, which previously came in Black, are now finished in a dark bronze tone. To further enhance the design portfolio of the Porsche GTS models, 21-inch RS Spyder-design wheels are fitted and finished in anthracite grey.
The interior of the Cayenne GTS features a heated GT sports steering wheel as standard. The high-quality material Race-Tex can also be found throughout the car. The suede-like fabric covers the roof lining, armrests and door panels, as well as the centre panels of the eight-way-adjustable sports seats. The side bolsters have been further raised to offer even more lateral support when cornering. Two alternative, GTS-specific interior packages in Carmine Red or Slate Grey Neo (not at the start of sales) are also available from Porsche for a more customized look.
New Driver Experience with ambient lighting and surround sound
The new GTS models benefit from the recent comprehensive product upgrade for the Cayenne, which includes the new Porsche Driver Experience with a curved digital instrument cluster as standard and an optional passenger display. In addition to the Sport Design package, dark-tinted HD matrix LED headlights and air suspension, the model also features a Bose® surround sound system and ambient lighting.
The Cayenne GTS Coupé also includes a fixed panoramic roof in glass, as standard, as well as an adaptive extending rear spoiler. If desired, the dynamic feel of the Coupé can be heightened even further with a Sports exhaust system with centrally positioned tailpipes in dark bronze. This is available as part of the three different lightweight sports packages. These also include a lightweight roof and a carbon rear diffuser, as well as reduced insulation. Depending on the equipment, the Lightweight packages can reduce the weight of the vehicle by up to 25 kilograms.
Both models are now available to order. Deliveries in Europe will begin in Summer 2024.
MotorheadOne
MotorheadOne is scouring the internet for the latest content coming from car manufacturers and enthusiasts. Trying to add value and perspective to the marketing and hype bias. Read full bio
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