Canadian diesel lovers and Porsche aficionados have recently been blessed with the best of both worlds – the Porsche Cayenne Diesel. The addition of a diesel version of the upscale SUV provides a seventh option of the model. The Cayenne Diesel will feature a powertrain consisting of a 3.0 litre V-6 mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The engine makes 245 horsepower, with a top speed of 220 km/h, and generates 406 lb-ft of torque. Car and diesel enthusiasts will recognize the 3.0 as essentially the same iteration available in the VW Touareg and Audi Q7, with a slight tweak in power.
The Porsche Cayenne Diesel transaxle will be a full-time Porsche Track Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive, and will also include traction control as well as a self-locking differential. Porsche asserts that their 3.0 version will launch this 7,700+ lb SUV from 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds. Fuel economy estimates are 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The Cayenne diesel V-6 comes with a turbocharger that has what is known as Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG), which varies the aspect ratio of the turbo to adjust for changing driving conditions, thus allowing for better boost performance at lower speeds. This is accomplished by the use of electronically adjustable guide vanes.
Of course, this being a Porsche, all manner of creature comforts are featured throughout the Cayenne Diesel, including, lane change assist utilizing radar sensors, rear seat entertainment package for those long family trips; park assist with reversing camera, automatic climate control and Prsche Entry and Drive keyless entry and push-button ignition. Safety features include the Porsche Dynamic Lighting system, which automatically ignites headlights at night, dims high beams when approaching traffic is detected, and change direction with vehicle steering.
Pricing starts at $64,500 for the base model. Add in a Bose audio system, convenience package that includes 18-way adaptive power sport seats; power tilt and moonroof, and your Cayenne Diesel lists at just over $74,000.