2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS Receives Boost in Performance with Upgraded Twin-Turbo V8

Porsche defies electrification trend, boosts Cayenne GTS by 40 horsepower.

Whenever Porsche puts a “GTS” badge on one of its models, whether it’s a hefty Cayenne SUV weighing nearly 5,000 pounds, customers can anticipate a blend of everyday comfort and impressive performance, both on straight roads and winding paths. This fusion of speed and family-friendly practicality is what makes purchasing a 2024 Porsche Cayenne a smart choice. However, with automakers constantly striving to enhance the speed of their vehicles, Porsche cannot afford to become complacent. That’s why, for 2025, the renowned German brand is taking the already remarkably swift and capable Cayenne GTS and making it even more aggressive.

Fast forward to 2024, and now all Porsches, regardless of the Turbo badge, come equipped with turbochargers. However, the term “Turbo” is still reserved for the elite models. Despite this distinction, the GTS should not be underestimated or overlooked as it holds its own as a powerhouse. Let’s analyze it in comparison to the previous GTS model.

Acceleration times have been reduced by 0.3 seconds, while the maximum speed has gone up by 4 miles per hour. The enhanced acceleration mainly comes from the increased power, although Porsche states that the 8-speed Tiptronic S gearbox reacts faster in Sport and Sport Plus modes, helping achieve the quicker time.

Now, pure statistics don’t provide the complete picture and mere measurements can’t determine if a vehicle is enjoyable to drive. Nonetheless, there won’t be any objections to the horsepower reaching close to 500. And indeed, it’s fully powered by internal combustion! There are no hybrid enhancements, just a twin-turbo V8 engine. Keep in mind that an all-electric Cayenne SUV is set to be released in 2026, so savor the power of internal combustion engines while you still can.

The suspension setup of the Porsche Cayenne GTS shares some components with the Turbo GT model, despite the GTS being more of a high-performance SUV than a true supercar. Notably, the GTS benefits from the same front axle pivot bearings found in the Turbo GT, which enables a 0.58-degree increase in negative camber. This adjustment contributes to improved steering accuracy and responsiveness. Additionally, the GTS features a bespoke air suspension system, active dampers, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus technology, and sits 10 mm lower than other Cayennes equipped with air suspension. Buyers of the GTS also have the option to include Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) for enhanced active roll stabilization.

If you’re worried that air suspension might resemble something from Mercedes, fret not. This is Porsche we are talking about. The Cayenne GTS features two-valve dampers and a two-chamber system that guarantees agile spring rates. Since it’s the GTS model, they opted for air suspension to provide a smooth and adaptable ride when needed, yet able to stiffen up for high-speed excitement.

By 2025, a specialized water cooling system will be in place for the Porsche Traction Management system. This technology, originally from the Cayenne Turbo GT, aims to enhance the GTS’s durability during extended high-speed driving sessions. It remains unclear if Porsche’s intention is to allow the GTS more freedom to reach top speeds on the Autobahn without overheating, but they have not ruled out this possibility.

The GTS model of the Cayenne has always had a distinctive look that sets it apart from the standard version. This visual difference will be even more pronounced with the introduction of the Sport Design Package as standard. This package includes high-gloss black rocker panels, wheel arch extensions, front fascia inlays, and window surrounds. In the past, these components were body-colored on previous GTS models.One notable change is the color of the tips on the Sport Exhaust System. Previously black, they will now be dark bronze. The front fascia of the GTS will also be unique to this model, featuring larger air intakes, red brake calipers, and tinted lights at the front and rear. The wheels will be 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels in anthracite grey, which is essentially a fancy term for “coal.”

When you step inside the new Cayenne GTS, you’ll notice a plethora of interior components (such as the armrests, roofliner, door panels, steering wheel, and seat centers) adorned in what Porsche refers to as “Race Tex.” This microfiber material is touted by Porsche for producing 80% less CO2 during the manufacturing process, akin to Porsche’s take on Alcantara. Known for its grippy nature, performance-focused automakers favor this material for steering wheels to ensure drivers’ hands remain secure during dynamic driving experiences. The Cayenne GTS offers various interior packages in Carmine Red or Slate Grey to suit different preferences.

The 2024 Porsche Cayenne introduces new ambient lighting and a Bose Surround-Sound System as part of the Porsche Driver Experience, the brand’s latest interior design for all Cayennes. The in-car touchscreen design has been perfected in this model, featuring a free-standing 12.6″ digital gauge cluster, a 12.3″ center screen, and an optional 10.9″ passenger screen capable of streaming movies. Although Porsche indicates that “HD-Matrix Design LED headlights” will be standard in the 2025 Cayenne GTS, these headlights are not currently legal in the U.S., so they will not be included as standard features unless there are changes in legislation.

If you prefer reduced cargo space and rear headroom in your Cayenne GTS, you have the option to purchase it as a GTS Coupe, which features a sloped roof at the back for aesthetic reasons. It is also equipped with an adaptive rear spoiler and offers optional Lightweight Sport Packages, at an additional cost of $5,000 compared to the standard Cayenne GTS.

By selecting the correct combination, you can reduce the weight of your Cayenne GTS by 55 pounds, which is a notable achievement. Shedding any amount of weight is beneficial for a vehicle geared towards performance (and boasting nearly 500 hp).

If you’re looking for an SUV that can keep up with C5 Corvette ZO6s and also carry building materials from Home Depot, Porsche’s pricing for the 2025 Porsche Cayenne starts at $124,900, while the GTS Coupe is priced at $129,500 (plus a $1,995 delivery fee and any additional fees that dealers might add). The Cayenne GTS models are expected to be available at U.S. Porsche Centers in autumn of 2024. Alternatively, you could watch out for a Porsche Cayenne Turbo S on Cars and Bids for around $16,000 more, offering 500 hp and ample space for transporting large items like a refrigerator.