Porsche will launch its electrified version of the Cayenne, called the E-Hybrid in September 2018. The new car inherits technology from the powertrain of the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid sold in international markets.
This SUV uses a 3.0-litre V6 engine instead of the Panamera's 2.9-litre unit (which is smaller because of a larger crankshaft that shortens the engine’s stroke) and is mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic gearbox. However, it borrows electric hardware from its liftback sibling so as to produce up to 462hp and 700Nm of torque. This enables a claimed 0-100kph time of 5sec and a top speed of 253kph.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid’s entire powertrain has a claimed fuel consumption of up to 30.03kpl (according to the New European Driving Cycle) thus making it the most efficient version of the current-gen SUV, overtaking other petrol V6 alternatives.
With respect to its pure electric performance, Porsche claims a range of 43.5km and a top speed of 135kph. It takes 7.8hrs to fully charge the 14.1kWh battery with a 230V connection. This falls to 2.3hrs if an optional 7.2kW on-board charger is fitted. The car’s charge rate can be managed remotely via the Porsche Connect app.
The car's hybrid powertrain is said to benefit from technology first introduced to the 918 Spyder. When pressed, it can provide maximum torque, instantly. In Sport Plus mode, Porsche says virtually all of the battery’s energy can be used up in a boost. In Sport mode, the fluid-cooled battery provides less energy and is constantly replenished to enable continued boosts of torque.
In addition to its new powertrain, the Cayenne range also gains new driver assistance technology. Porsche is introducing its first head-up display via the 2019 model, and it will be in full colour. A more advanced adaptive cruise control system is also added to the line-up. A heated windscreen, remote-operated independent heating and massage seats have also joined the options list, along with new 22-inch light metal wheels.
When it does arrive in India, the hybrid Cayenne will not have any direct rivals. The only other hybrid premium luxury SUV on sale in India at the moment is the Volvo XC90 T8, which sits in a segment below the Cayenne.