Porsche Cayenne to get new V8 diesel

Porsche has confirmed long running rumours that it will add a second diesel model to its Cayenne global line-up as part of efforts to further boost its sales potential in the face of increased luxury SUV competition.

Pictured here for the first time ahead of a planned world premiere at the Paris motor show at the end of September, the new Cayenne S Diesel runs the latest evolution of Audi’s 4.2-litre V8 diesel engine.

With twin variable vane turbochargers and the latest in piezo valve guided common-rail injection technology, the 90-degree unit kicks out 377bhp and 86.5kgm – an increase of 140bhp and 30.5kgm 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 100kph in 5.7sec and to a top speed of 253kph.

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 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 be offered as optional equipment.