porsche-cayenne-restyle-e-hybrid-xxl

Until a next-generation 100% electric in 2026, the Porsche Cayenne undergoes a significant spring facelift. On the agenda, an XXL battery that should double its range in zero-emission mode.

What a journey the venerable Porsche Cayenne has made, whose first generation was launched in 2002. At the time, it was a bold gamble. Offering an SUV to primarily appeal to the American market, and breaking away from the image of a small manufacturer specializing in sports cars. The success was there and allowed Porsche to quickly regain strong profitability, a parameter that was sorely lacking at the end of the 1990s. Since then, the Porsche SUV has grown, temporarily shifted to Diesel (new scandal), and now runs on plug-in hybrid to improve its image.

For the facelift of this third generation launched in 2018, Stuttgart’s manufacturer went all out. To the point that this update already gives a significant aging angle to the current model. And for good reason, the technical specifications are transformed. Under the hood of the E-Hybrid version, considered the most “virtuous,” lies a solid V6 3.0 Turbo, combined with an electric motor. The latter gains 30 kW, reaching 130 kW, and a combined thermal + electric power now peaks at 470 hp. But the German engineers did not stop there. The battery capacity is increased from 17.9 to 25.9 kWh! According to Porsche, the electric range of the restyled E-Hybrid Cayenne is now 90 km, compared to just under 50 km before. Finally, an onboard charger of 11 kW now charges the beast in about 2h30.

A more efficient Porsche Cayenne on the road?

The increased power and performance are complemented by revised and corrected road handling. As standard, the PASM adaptive suspension receives reinforcement with new shock absorbers. According to Porsche, driving comfort is improved, as well as sporty driving efficiency with expected enhancements in body roll control. As an option, an air suspension can also be chosen, which would enhance the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.

A bold look

Visually, if it’s not a revolution, it’s clear that the designers’ work has been quite substantial. The front end has benefited from many changes, starting with the hood, bumpers, and fenders which are all new. The rear also features a new tailgate, while the license plate relocates lower. But the highlight concerns the headlights, with the integration of standard matrix lights. According to Porsche, each headlight would contain up to 32,000 pixels. Finally, the Porsche Cayenne now comes with wheels of at least 20 inches.

The interior is also noteworthy. The first thing that jumps out is the new gear lever for the automatic transmission, now located beside the steering column. A nod to American preferences. This also frees up space in the center, with the addition of a refrigerated compartment and a wireless charging pad for smartphones. A new Porsche 911-style steering wheel also makes an appearance, and for the tech-savvy, a third digital screen of 10.9 inches is available as an option on the passenger side.

Prices are soaring!

Interested in the restyled Porsche Cayenne? Brace yourself, as you will have to wait until July 2023 to receive your unit. And, incidentally, shell out a hefty bill, since the E-Hybrid version starts at €105,712 for the standard model and €108,712 for the Cayenne Coupe. Note that the equipment is more comprehensive than before, with features like rearview camera, matrix headlights, 20″ wheels, adaptive suspension, and more, now included as standard.