2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS divides the V-8 contrast

• Brand-new GTS version unleashes 493 horsepower, 486 lb-ft of torque

• Porsche boasts 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds, maximum velocity of 171 mph

• The Cayenne GTS SUV costs $126,895, while the Coupe is priced at $131,495

Porsche gave the widely successful Cayenne a thorough makeover just last year. While it revamped the SUV significantly for 2024, focusing on introducing more plug-in versions, it also dedicated some attention to the powerful V-8 engine that is gracefully nearing the end of its era.

This brings us to the present moment—well, more precisely, to the surreal suburban setting reminiscent of the Truman Show, situated north of Atlanta, where we had the unique opportunity to simultaneously browse for a new MacBook Pro, sample tapas, and swiftly accelerate out of the parking lot in a 2025 Cayenne GTS.

The GTS bridges the gap between the milder Cayenne S and the high-performance Cayenne Turbo and Turbo GT. The Gran Turismo Sport (GTS) iteration has been in existence since 2007, initially delivering 405 hp and a 0-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds. With each iteration, the V-8 power has been increased; the latest model has shaved over two seconds from the original 0-60 mph time, and has made the SUV more user-friendly on a day-to-day basis.

However, it has not abandoned its powerful V-8. Despite facing stiff competition from electric vehicles that excel in acceleration, the V-8 engine seems to be far from losing relevance. Perhaps that explains its assertive growls when pushed to its limits.

2025 Cayenne GTS: Gentle rumble, high anticipations

Underneath its sleek bodywork, the 2025 Cayenne GTS houses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that churns out 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. (That’s 40 hp more than the previous GTS model, as you already know.) To achieve this, it equips a single-scroll turbocharger, upgrades to a high-pressure fuel-injection system, and incorporates two-stage variable valve lift and electric wastegates. The moment the engine roars to life, its subtle growl sets sky-high expectations: its fierce tone might give a jolt to a pedestrian crossing serene streets, but only if timed perfectly.

Porsche fine-tunes its 8-speed automatic transmission for quicker gear changes when engaged in Sport and Sport+ modes. They have also relocated the gear lever—now positioned on the steering column. Three on the tree? A resounding yes. Teamed with the roaring engine and all-wheel drive, the Cayenne GTS sprints from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds while racing towards a maximum speed of 171 mph.

Positioned between the Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo GT, this model boasts several GT features, including the SUV’s pivot bearings at the front axle, enhancing negative camber and contributing to the Cayenne GTS’s sharp handling. Air springs and dual-valve dampers accompany the journey, and the Cayenne GTS lowers its ride height by 0.4 inch compared to its more economical counterparts.

Enhanced by active anti-roll bars that counteract lateral forces during intense cornering maneuvers and rear-wheel steering that effortlessly navigates tight bends without hesitation, the Cayenne GTS offers exhilarating yet controlled driving experience. Venturing north of Alpharetta to the winding roads typically reserved for intimate gatherings with close friends and compact sportscars, the GTS expertly smoothens out imperfections without compromising its steering precision. The torque distribution to the rear axle further enhances the driving delight.

Embarking on an adventure through the picturesque mountains of north Georgia while traffic maintains a semblance of sanity is a pure joy. Gradually, gently, graciously—these are characteristics this Cayenne simply doesn’t possess, nor should it. Towering at its height, one wouldn’t expect such refined handling, yet the Cayenne GTS surprises with its finesse. Even in Sport+ mode, the chalk-white GTS SUV I piloted exhibited only minor undulations on smooth surfaces, with minimal lateral give that’s promptly countered by the active-roll technology. It effortlessly glided through complex mountain passes with such accuracy that I was half-convinced it hailed from Canada, in search of a curling championship.

The only downside: While the steering is superb once familiar, it might feel uncertain around the center position initially. Furthermore, the carbon-ceramic brakes on this European-spec model can be aggressive. It’s advisable to pre-load the pedal with pressure, especially on downhill sections with tight twists. For U.S.-bound GTS Cayennes, the carbon-ceramic brakes will be replaced with standard steel brakes, offering easier maintenance, cost-effectiveness, and presumably a gentler touch.

For those seeking the extreme, the Cayenne GTS offers a Coupe variant with a sleek roofline and lightweight options that include a carbon fiber roof replacing the standard glass roof, alongside reduced sound deadening. This configuration shaves off 55 pounds and intensifies the glorious V-8 soundtrack inside the cabin.

2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS embraces digital innovation

Including all enhancements introduced to the Cayenne lineup for 2024, the GTS benefits from updates to style, cabin technology, chassis, and more. A significant alteration involves the LED headlights, now adorning a more angular design for improved visibility. The hood exhibits a slightly raised profile, with the SUV featuring more gloss-black accents, large 21-inch Spyder wheels, extended arches, painted brake calipers, and a diffuser.

Internally, the Cayenne adopts a fully digital dashboard akin to the one used in the Taycan. Out with the traditional analog gauges, replaced by a 12.7-inch digital instrument panel. Additionally, there’s a 12.3-inch infotainment display and an optional 10.9-inch display for the front passenger to observe grip levels and increasing speeds. However, no functionality for monitoring heart rate or medical alerts is included at this stage.

This cabin embodies precision rather than extravagance. Supportive seat bottoms and robust grab handles provide comfort to occupants. The doors close with a soft, reassuring thud. Featuring an array of lavish amenities ranging from a heated steering wheel to ambient lighting and Bose sound system, the interior offers a selection of synthetic or genuine leather upholstery. Cupholders and wireless Apple CarPlay are also on the menu, leaving no detail overlooked.

The 2025 Cayenne GTS will grace dealerships this autumn as a 2025 model, available in both SUV and Coupe variants. Prices for the SUV will commence at $126,895, while the Coupe will be priced at $131,495. 

Porsche sponsored our travel to ensure delivery of this test drive review.