The Porsche 2008 Cayenne line-up

Article by Benjamin Hudson

Porsche has released a refined Cayenne line-up for 2008. These include the base, S, and the Turbo. Two of the considered significant changes include the angrier looking, more slated VW headlights and a revised front fascia with ribs cutting across larger vents. The turbo model keeps its signature hood bulges. It will also be differentiated from the other two models by larger turn indicators that resemble the LED strips found on the front of the new 911 Turbo. Base and S models on the other hand, will have smaller, round indicators. It was recently announced that a refined Boxster with increases of five horsepower for each model will go along with the vehicle. With this, some automotive journalists think Porsche will give a similar increase to the Cayenne. All three Cayennes, the base, S, and the Turbo, have the trade mark of larger gill-like front fascias. They also all have new engines and suspension options. The new line of V-6 and V-8 engines all feature direct fuel injection, as Porsche calls it the DFI, for greater power and efficiency. As an option, all three models will also have a new electronic suspension system called Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC). Despite of its impressive performance and record-setting sales, some critics have (and are still) complaining that the first-generation Porsche Cayenne lack in character, and that misfortune continues with the 2008 Cayenne. It has a new face, mildly reworked interiors, and revised engines, but little else feels or looks different. On a brighter side, the Cayenne S and Turbo are even more muscle-bound than before, with power increasing from 340 and 450 hp to 385 and 500 hp, respectively. Porsche says that highway fuel economy is up 15 percent for the Cayenne S and 11 percent for the Turbo – thanks to the new and improved direct injection or the DFI. The base Cayenne was supplied by VW with V-6 power manual-transmission which has been enlarged from 3.2 to 3.6 liters for an additional 43 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque. Active anti roll bars are now available on air-suspended models.Coming standard on all Cayenne models is Porsche’s Stability Management (PSM), with its brake assist function, advanced trailer stabilization system and off-road ABS. These functions improve the brakes’ reaction speed, significantly reduce the yawing which can affect vehicles when towing, and optimize braking performance on loose ground. The static and, for the first time, dynamic bend lighting that come with the bi-xenon headlamps fitted as standard to the Cayenne Turbo likewise increase active safety. The system, which can also be ordered for the Cayenne and Cayenne S, is activated as soon a speed of three kilometers per hour is reached.

About the Author

Benjamin Hudson works as a supervisor at one of the top engineering firms in the business district of Louisiana. He is also a freelance journalist and has passion for anything automotive.

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