Cayenne takes it on the nose

Newswheel staff :: 13 February 2005 :: Filed under Four wheel drive, SUV, Porsche Cayenne, Europe & UK, US,

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Porsche puts popular SUV under the knife

In a less than astonishing turn of events, prototypes of a facelifted Porsche Cayenne have been caught plying highways and byways of Bavaria (images here).

We’re past debating the pros and cons of the Cayenne itself. Like it or loathe it, there’s no doubting the boost it gives Porsche’s bottom line. What’s more, despite the first class kicking the Cayenne has been handed by the press for its heavy-handed styling, the car has done roaring business in the US. So, you might wonder what the need is for what appears to be a fairly major front end overhaul (as well as a few minor tweaks at the rear). Whatever, it’s hard to gauge the look of the revised car thanks to plastic cladding used on the test mules. It is clear, however, that the core architecture, including roof, doors and glasshouse will be carried over untouched.

Due out some time in 2006, there’s no firm info on drivetrain upgrades, but expect the entry level model to benefit from the revised 3.6-litre narrow angle V6 destined to debut in the new VW Passat. Nearer the top of the range, we’ll eat our hats if the Turbo’s V8 mill doesn’t pony up at least 50 extra brake horses.