2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS: The V8 Sweet Spot in a well-rounded Cayenne lineup

In the realm of high-performance SUVs, the 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS is carving out a unique niche. While the automotive world is buzzing with electrification, Porsche understands that some enthusiasts still crave the visceral thrill of a V8 engine. For those who yearn for the old-school charm of a throaty exhaust note and trademark Porsche dynamics, the Cayenne GTS is the answer to their prayers.

2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS: By the Numbers

• Engine: Twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8
• Power: 468 horsepower
• Torque: 442 lb-ft
• 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
• Top Speed: 171 mph (electronically limited)
• Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
• Suspension: Sport-tuned with adaptive air suspension
• Wheels: Standard 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels
• Brakes: Porsche Surface Coated Brakes (PSCB) with tungsten carbide coating
• Price: Starting MSRP of $126,895 (GTS) and $126,895 (GTS Coupe)

This isn't your average SUV; it's a performance powerhouse that aims to evoke the raw power and driving experience of the legendary first-generation Cayenne Turbos. With its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, the GTS churns out a formidable 468 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a 0-60 mph sprint of just 4.5 seconds, a testament to Porsche's engineering prowess.

But it's not just about straight-line speed. The Cayenne GTS is surprisingly agile for its size, boasting exceptional handling dynamics that rival even the most athletic sports cars. Thanks to a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive air suspension, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, the GTS tackles corners with confidence, defying its SUV proportions.

What sets the Cayenne GTS apart from its siblings, particularly the Turbo and Turbo S E-Hybrid models, is its unique blend of performance and value. While the Turbo variants offer even more power and speed, the GTS provides a similar driving experience for a significantly lower price. The starting MSRP for the 2025 Cayenne GTS is $126,895, making it a compelling option for those seeking performance well at least till the Turbo GT arrives. 

A Multi-Faceted Machine: More Than Just Muscle

Don't let the Cayenne GTS's performance credentials fool you; this SUV is more versatile than it might appear at first glance. Sure, it can carve canyons and devour straightaways with the best of them, but it's also surprisingly well-suited for everyday life. With its spacious interior and comfortable ride (at least on smoother surfaces), the GTS is a capable grocery-getter or soccer-mom chariot during the week.

However, its sporty character does come with some compromises. The stiff suspension and low-profile tires wrapped around those massive 22-inch rims might look cool, but they're not exactly ideal for venturing off the beaten path. But let's be honest, most Cayenne GTS owners probably won't be tackling the Rubicon Trail anytime soon. This SUV is more at home on the open road or navigating city streets in style.

Interestingly, there's a growing trend among off-road enthusiasts to repurpose older Cayenne models for overland adventures. A decade down the line, it wouldn't be surprising to see some second or third-hand GTS models ditch their sporty suspension for lift kits and chunky tires, transforming into rugged trailblazers. For now, though, the GTS remains firmly rooted in the on-road performance realm.

And for those who prioritize style over outright practicality, Porsche offers the Cayenne GTS Coupe. This variant features a sloping roofline that gives it a sportier look, but it comes at the expense of cargo space. The coupe sacrifices about 20% of the standard GTS's cargo capacity, making it less ideal for hauling around bulky items. But hey, who needs groceries when you've got that sexy silhouette and a glorious V8 soundtrack?

The GTS: A Goldilocks Choice in the Cayenne Lineup

While the Cayenne GTS may not be the most powerful or eco-conscious choice in the lineup, it represents a compelling sweet spot for many buyers. It offers a blend of performance, practicality, and value that's hard to match. If you're not chasing the ultimate horsepower figures of the Turbo models or the fuel-saving benefits of the E-Hybrid, the GTS could be the perfect fit.

Consider the 2025 Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, with its eye-watering 670 horsepower and $171,850 starting price.  It's a technological marvel, no doubt, but for many, the GTS strikes a more appealing balance. The power difference, while noticeable, doesn't translate to a night-and-day difference in real-world driving scenarios. And the GTS's more approachable price point makes it a more attainable performance SUV without sacrificing the thrills.

Even compared to the new Range Rover Sport SV, a formidable competitor in the performance SUV segment, the Cayenne GTS holds its own. The Range Rover might offer slightly more opulence and off-road capability, but the GTS excels in on-road dynamics and driving engagement, staying true to its Porsche roots.

In the end, the 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS is a testament to the brand's commitment to providing a diverse range of options for its customers. While electrification may be the future, the GTS proves that the classic V8-powered SUV still has a place in our hearts and on our roads. It's a performance SUV for those who crave a visceral driving experience, a touch of practicality, and a healthy dose of Porsche heritage. And for those who still believe in the magic of a good old-fashioned internal combustion engine, the Cayenne GTS is a resounding reminder that the thrill of driving is far from extinct.

Image Source: Porsche Newsroom
 

Author Bio

Bhavik Sreenath is an automotive expert, writer, and founder of Motolog Studio. With a Master's in Automotive Journalism and experience in publications like Bodyshop Magazine, he delivers compelling stories about the cars we love. From designing magazine layouts to reporting on eco-conscious practices, he brings a multifaceted perspective to automotive writing. His experience in Automotive Journalism makes him a vocal voice for car enthusiasts and industry insiders. Follow Bhavik on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, to stay in touch and up-to-date with the latest EV and battery development news.