Vehicle: 2008 Porsche Cayenne GTS with Tiptronic-S, PDCC and Variable Assist Power Steering
Price as tested: CDN$97220

Performance: We have reviewed both the Cayenne S and Turbo S in the past. This time, its another Cayenne with S in its last time. This is the Cayenne GTS.

The Cayenne GTS sits in between S and Turbo. Right in the heart of Cayenne’s ever-growing model range. The GTS comes with an excellent 4.8 liter DOHC 32-valve V8 with aplentry of horsepower and torque, 405hp and 369 lb/ft of torque to be exact. This powertrain is both quick and refined enough for not upping to the the more powerful Turbo with 500hp. The astounishing Turbo S is another story. Its capable to go from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds which is very fast for such a heavy SUV, one that weighting in close to two tons. Its eager in the bottom end thanks to its maximum torque arrives at just 3500rpm. The top end is enhanced by Porsche’s advanced VarioCam Plus, which designed to add air to its breathing for the intake valves. Both the mid-range and top end are equally willing to rev even with the optional 6-speed Tiptronic-S on our tester. As with other Porsche Tiptronic, this one has wonderful fuzzy logic programs that adjust to each driver’s throttle input for maximum performance. That means its willing to up and downshifts, while the gear ratios are perfect. The 1st and 2nd gears are low enough for its 369 lb/ft to take off, while the top three gears are high enough for this GTS as a relaxing Autobahn cruiser.

Handling: What makes the GTS different than the more powerful Turbo silibing is the chassis setting. Both the Turbo and Turbo S have the most aggressive chassis settings I have ever tested in an SUV, even for those rivals which have as much performance creditals as Cayenne. With the GTS, the chassis has set to be more civilized and livable for most drivers. While the GTS still has some nifty technology like the optional PDCC, or Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, which is able to adjust body motions when pushed enthuisastically. This system worths every pennies, as GTS’s cornering prowess is nothing short of amazing for an SUV, without losing daily drivability. The ride quality is both comfortable and sublime. The body rolls are almost non-existence for an SUV with high center of gravity. Suspension is able to take a set while the PDCC put it into action. It would settle itself beautifully without scaring both driver and passengers. For an SUV, GTS’s PSM, or what Porsche stands for electronic stability control, is an uninstrusive type. As it works hand-in-hand with Cayenne’s advanced AWD system. It only steps into equation when the AWD has reached its outer end of saving the driver from the nasty. This AWD acts as a 1st level of protection before PSM steps in. On the other hand, GTS’s steering is Porsche sharp and precise, even with the optional Variable ratio assist power steering on our tester. Along with PASM, or Porsche Active Suspsension Management, GTS remains unflattered with it sets at “sport” through corners. With it sets at “comfort”, GTS could well be the most comfortably compliant Porsche Cayenne ever produced.

Brakes: With huge front and rear discs, plus standard ABS. GTS’s stopping prowess is as impressive as its handling prowess. The stopping distance is impressive while the pedal feel remains fade-free after couple of hard stops. Both the pedal feel and modulation are wonderful, indeed.

Interior: Inside, you would find anything one expects from a Porsche. That means excellent use of plastic and leather materials in the cabin. Those sports seats are simply superb. It hugs the body through corners tightly thanks to the shoulder and thigh supports. The rest of the instrumentation gauges and center console are typical Cayenne fanfare.

Conclusion: If the Cayenne Turbo S is the ultimate of the ultimate SUV, GTS is the most balanced package of all. Its handling and ride compromise is more ideal for those who don’t need a more aggressive chassis setting. Great brakes and an engine to die for.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2008 Porsche Cayenne GTS
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Performance: 5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4.5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4.5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-for-money: 5/5

Overall rating: 4.5/5