Porsche has added a second diesel model to its Porsche Cayenne line-up as part of efforts to further boost its sales potential in the face of increased luxury SUV competition.
The new Cayenne S Diesel runs the latest evolution of Audi’s 4.2-litre V8 diesel engine and makes its debut a the Paris motor show.
With twin variable vane turbochargers and the latest in piezo valve guided common rail injection technology, the 90-degree unit kicks out a BMW X6 M50d beating 377bhp and 626lb ft – an increase of 140bhp and 221lb ft on the existing single turbocharged 3.0-ltire V6 diesel engine found in the popular Cayenne Diesel.
According to Porsche’s own performance figures, the added reserves are sufficient to haul the four-wheel drive Cayenne S Diesel from standstill to 62mph in 5.7 seconds and to a top speed of 157mph. They also help extend its towing capacity to 3500kg.
Combined economy is rated at 34.0mpg and CO2 emissions at 218g/km thanks to various fuel-saving technology including stop-start.
As with rival BMW and its new twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine, Porsche says it has worked hard at providing the new V8 diesel, which is also earmarked to join a facelifted Porsche Panamera line-up in 2013, with a distinctive sound, which it likens to its more traditional V8 petrol units.
The strong torque qualities of the big diesel has also led to a unique set-up for the Cayenne’s four-wheel drive system, with torque vectoring set to offered as optional equipment.
