When Porsche launched the 2024 Cayenne, its lineup was once again topped by the Turbo GT. Going forward, this high-performance version will have a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 massaged to produce an extra 19 hp (14 kW) for a total of 650 hp (485 kW). Enough muscle for 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h). There’s one problem – you can’t buy it in Europe. Why? Due to stricter emission regulations.
The good news is that Porsche is planning an indirect replacement with a V8 plug-in hybrid model. There is no name yet, so it is unclear whether it will be called the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid again or not. We knew it would be the most powerful Cayenne ever made offering a combined output of over 700 hp. For the sake of clarity, it will have just over 700 PS, which means 690 hp. That’s still about 20 more power bangs than the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid.
As far as torque is concerned, total output will exceed the 900 Nm (664 pound-feet) offered by the old Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid. An ICE will be good for just over 500 hp while an e-motor will produce close to 200 hp. The latter will feed an upgraded battery with more than 30 percent increased capacity and support for faster charging.
Speed is just over 186 mph (300 km/h), or slightly higher than its predecessor (183 mph or 295 km/h). While the 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time isn’t stated, the old one takes 3.8 seconds. One has to wonder if an improved plug-in hybrid setup is in the cards for the upcoming electrified Lamborghini Urus in 2024 given that the two SUVs are linked mechanically by sharing the MLB Evo platform.
Looks like we’ll have to wait a bit until the official announcement. With the Munich IAA set for early September, Porsche may decide to bring the V8 Cayenne plug-in hybrid there to show off the pricey crown jewel of the European variant.
