As Porsche gets ready to launch an update to the second-gen Cayenne for the 2015 model year, its hard at work on the all-new third-generation model due out in 2018. Below is what we know, have been told, or have been able to speculatively deduce, about the upcoming CUV, which also doubles as Porsche’s best-selling model.
The 2018 Cayenne will ride on the Volkswagen Group’s (VAG) new MLB (Modular Longitudinal Matrix) architecture. The Cayenne’s platform will have much in common with that of next-gen Volkswagen Touareg and an upcoming crossover from Lamborghini, while the next-gen Audi Q7 and Bentley’s upcoming CUV will use a longer variant of the same platform. VAG’s new MLB architecture, which will serve as the basis for most of the Audi product range, brings with it several benefits, including reduced mass and increased rigidity, qualities that are made possible by the use of ultra high-strength steel, aluminum, and plastic elements reinforced by carbon fiber. In fact, some reports have stated that the 2018 Cayenne will weigh as much as 220 pounds less than the current model, which tips the scales at 4,476 pounds (2,030 kilos) in the base trim level.
The 2018 Cayenne is expected to feature a C-shaped front fender vent as seen on this Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept
When it comes to styling, the next-gen Cayenne won’t deviate too far from an appearance that could be described as a larger Macan — with similar styling elements as the most recent addition to the Porsche product portfolio. We also expect to see a clamshell-style hood, wraparound tail lights, as well as several styling cues seen on the Panamera Sport Turismo concept, including a C-shaped fender vent and front air intakes.
The 2018 Cayenne is expected to feature similar front air intakes as those seen on this Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept
Motivating the 2018 Cayenne will be a range of powertrains that will likely mirror those offered on the 2015 Cayenne, including a naturally-aspirated V6 as the base powerplant, a turbocharged V6 for the mid-range Cayenne S, a plug-in hybrid system for the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, and a turbocharged V8 for the Cayenne Turbo. We also expect to see at least one diesel engine and a range-topping Cayenne GTS.
We expect the cabin of the next-gen Cayenne to incorporate elements found in Porsche’s 918 flagship supercar, including a host of high-tech infotainment and electronic driver aids, including semi-autonomous driving systems.
The cockpit of the Porsche 918
Spy shots featuring mules testing the next-gen Cayenne will likely begin to surface in the vicinity of Stuttgart over the next 10-20 months. We’ll keep our eyes and ears peeled.
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