2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS Arrives With a Twin-turbo V8

The Porsche Cayenne lineup is expanding for 2021. As expected, the automaker is adding a GTS variant of its next-generation midsize SUV, including the Cayenne Coupe. And this time, there are two more cylinders under the hood.

Gone is the twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6; say hello to a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8. The increase in output is not that big, mind you. The new GTS models deliver 453 horsepower (+13) and 457 pound-feet of torque (+14). An eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission and Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive are also included.

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Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is a bit quicker, down from 5.1 to 4.8 seconds—or 4.5 seconds using Performance Start, which is included in the optional Sport Chrono Package (standard on Coupe).

The sound of the engine will be the real difference, of course. All 2021 Cayenne GTS models feature a sport exhaust system. Customers opting for the Cayenne Coupe may also choose a new centrally mounted sport exhaust system with oval-shaped tips. According to Porsche, it delivers an even louder, more emotive auditory experience.

Elsewhere, engineers revised the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) dampers. In combination with the standard three-chamber Air Suspension, this lowers the chassis by 30 millimetres as compared to the Cayenne S.

Aesthetically, the GTS trim stands out with a standard Sport Design package as well as numerous black accents and badges. Among other things, the 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels are finished in satin black, while the LED headlights and continuous LED taillights are tinted.

Inside, look for Alcantara on the headliner, seat centres, door panels and centre console armrests along with black brushed aluminium accents. The standard eight-way sport seats, exclusively reserved for the new GTS models, are said to provide optimum support for dynamic cornering due to the increased height of their side bolsters.

The 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS and Cayenne GTS Coupe will arrive at dealerships this fall. Pricing starts at $120,400 and $126,500, respectively.