Porsche Cayenne Gets Update and New Options for 2005

Currently, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo holds the title as the world's fastest production sport utility vehicle. Although it's

The 2005 Cayenne Turbo offers extra power from its optional Tequipment package, ideal for towing the camp trailer to first place in line at the campsite. (Photo: Porsche Cars North America)

unlikely to be challenged by the current BMW X5 4.8is for top honors, Porsche is preparing for a full-on assault from the next generation Benz ML-Class AMG. The solution to this potential problem comes in the form of a performance package called Tequipment, which is similar to the X50 option available to the 996-generation 911 Turbo. A hike of 50 horsepower, to 500, and a boost of torque from 460 lb-ft to 515, available on a broad plateau between 2,250 and 4,750 rpm, is part of the package. These changes can be traced to a re-programmed ECU chip, optimized turbo intercooler and other engine upgrades.

In terms of performance, this is the hottest of all Cayennes not to mention the hottest of all SUVs, redefining "Sport" in Sport Utility Vehicle. Porsche claims that the powerful SUV can hustle its bulk to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, which is 0.3 seconds quicker than the standard Cayenne Turbo and 0.3 seconds shy of what the new 911 Carrera is capable of, despite the

Open or closed, the new panoramic roof adds an airy feel to the large SUV's interior. (Photo: Porsche Cars North America)

Cayenne Turbo being about a ton heavier. Top speed has also increased to 270 km/h, up 4 km/h from the standard Turbo's 266 km/h upper limit. Porsche claims that the added juice of the Tequipment package hasn't affected the Cayenne Turbo's fuel consumption figures, however, which is a good thing considering it gorges 15.4 liters of premium unleaded per 100 km driven.

To cope with the extra power, Porsche has also improved the standard Turbo brakes. New six-piston aluminum calipers biting down on larger (but not carbon-ceramic) 380 mm ventilated disc brakes up front and 358 mm discs in rear are sure to bring the Cayenne to a stop quicker from higher speeds. Adding to the upgraded driving dynamics are 19-inch wheels, necessarily fitted in order to clear the massive brakes.