Porsche brings the spice
Cayenne GTS is plenty hot enough
Only the enthusiasts know: It’s pronounced “Porsh-a.”
Porsche is a gift that keeps on giving. With so many accoutrements and appearance additives, you might never see another one like it. And owners can take full advantage of Porsche’s ability to option up its vehicles. With great standard features already, be prepared to get your pencil out and start selecting those must-have options to make it that much hotter.
Porsche’s Cayenne has six models, with the GTS being in the middle. Additionally, each model can be produced in a coupe version with the rear slope increased to get that bubble effect, that makes a total of 12 options when selecting a Cayenne.
Our 2021 GTS came standard with Porsche’s 4.0-liter Twin Turbo V8 engine producing a snarling 453 horsepower and 457 lb.-ft. of torque. When I say snarl, I mean Porsche Snarl. One of the most distinct exhaust sounds in the automobile industry comes out of a Porsche Sports exhaust. That growl is so excellent that it beats out the sound of Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio, which had the nicest sound prior to enjoying this five-seat SUV.
We noticed a slight lag in get-up-and-going, but when placed in Sport mode, the RPMs amped right up and it was ready for take-off.
The Tiptronic S eightspeed automatic transmission was smooth and powerful all at the same time.
A lowered center of gravity (over an inch) from its sister model the Cayenne S significantly assists the GTS with improved handling and race track-ready performance.
A left-hand side of the steering wheel key starts the car and starts off the list of great features to go with a plush interior. A unique level of “exclusivity” as Porsche calls it — with items placed correctly, is significantly better than prior models where the center console was confusing. Now items are positioned correctly for both the driver and passenger. Standard sports seats were comfortable and not too hard or bolstered. The Race-tex alcantara (suede-like) interior was enjoyable.
“Porsche is known for its extensive list of options, which can raise the final sales price up significantly depending on which ones you select,” said Matt Smith, deputy editor at CarGurus.
Cosmetic exterior changes to the GTS include a standard sport design package that upgrades the aggressiveness with blacked-out badging, mirrors, etc., to make it look that much more fiery and sleek. Standard are satin-gloss black 21inch RS Spyder wheels on our GTS, while 22s are optional. Our Quartzite Grey Metallic exterior was easy on the eyes and not too flashy.
From stitching to seat belts to exterior swag, you can option up your Porsche to your liking to keep it different from others. You’re unlikely to see the exact same vehicle going down the road. Porsche was ahead of its time with the Cayenne and for good reason. We loved the looks and snarl then and love them even more today.