One Name, Two Models
The all-new and first-ever electric Cayenne may be here, but Porsche continues to sell the gas-powered third-generation model that will live on for a few more years. Mechanically, the two are as unrelated as they come, connected only by name. It's a wise move given that not all Cayenne buyers are ready to go full electric just yet.
However, the third-generation Cayenne isn't exactly a young model. It was introduced in mid-2017 for the 2019 model year, so it's a familiar shape by now. The model was given a refresh for 2024, but there's no denying its age now. So, will the current ICE-powered Cayenne keep on going until customers fully accept the EV model? Porsche finally set the record straight.
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Fourth-Gen ICE Cayenne Confirmed
For those hoping Porsche will still build an all-new gas-powered Cayenne, there's some good news. The company has confirmed to Auto Express that it is, indeed, committed to building one. The bad news? You'll have to wait until 2028 or 2029 for that one. Still, for those holding on to hope will appreciate this bit of information.
"We plan to have these combustion engines and hybrids [available] far into the next decade," said Ralf Keller, Porsche's project manager for the Cayenne. In other words, he's the guy to talk to for all things related to that model. He also told the publication, "We can use the MLB-Evo platform, and we can use the PPC platform. It was always successful to share these things."
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The Audi Connection
Recently, it was reported that Audi and Porsche will be further collaborating on future models. The next-generation Macan will be based on the current Q5, and the three-row Porsche crossover will be closely related to the upcoming Q9. With the mention of the MLB-Evo and PPC platforms, the Cayenne will be yet another Audi-based Porsche.
It's worth noting that the third-generation Cayenne is already related to the current Q7, both of which use the MLB-Evo chassis. The thing is, only the main structures are shared, while almost everything else is developed independently. For the new generation of both SUVs, those ties are likely to be stronger.
It's been said that the redesigned Q7 will make its world premiere sometime this year. There is no exact timeline mentioned just yet, but it's likely towards the end of 2026 and will be sold as a 2027 model year. It'll take a couple more years before the Porsche version appears.
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What to Expect
Given that a large, three-row Porsche crossover is coming soon, we don't see the Cayenne ballooning in size for the next generation. The dimensions will likely grow marginally at most, although Keller hinted that its footprint will be about the same as the current gas-powered model.
Some technologies from the electric Cayenne have been touted for the ICE version. Chief among these is the Active Ride suspension system, and it will be a first for a Porsche ICE vehicle if it gets it. That said, it's not set in stone, but the company is keen to add it.
For the powertrain, expect mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, like the current model. There could be a greater degree of electrification, as new emissions regulations in Europe are tougher than ever. With that in mind, we could see an arrangement similar to the RS 5's twin-turbocharged V6 plug-in hybrid setup.
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