Porsche Cayenne (3rd Generation) - The Ultimate Guide

​The third-generation Porsche Cayenne was introduced in 2017, with production starting for the 2018 model year in Europe and the 2019 model year in the United States and other regions. This generation continues through the present, encompassing model years 2018 to 2025. The third-generation Porsche Cayenne received a significant mid-cycle refresh for the 2024 model year.

The differences between the second-generation (958; 2011–2018) and third-generation (9Y0; 2019–present) Porsche Cayenne represent another significant evolution, marked by advances in design, technology, performance, and overall sophistication.

The second-generation Cayenne introduced a lighter, sportier, and more refined approach compared to the first generation, significantly enhancing Porsche’s standing in the luxury SUV segment. It improved handling, performance, and introduced hybrid powertrains. Still, by the end of its run, it began to show its age in terms of interior technology and connectivity compared to emerging competitors.

In contrast, the third-generation Cayenne, launched in 2019, introduced an entirely new platform (shared with VW Group's MLB Evo architecture), offering even greater weight savings, improved agility, and increased interior space. Its styling evolved subtly but effectively, becoming sharper, more contemporary, and clearly influenced by Porsche’s latest models like the Panamera and Macan. The third-generation Cayenne also emphasized advanced technology, featuring digital instrument clusters, large touchscreen infotainment systems, and significantly upgraded driver-assistance systems.

Performance-wise, the third-generation Cayenne took another leap forward, featuring more powerful and efficient engines across the lineup. Notably, the Cayenne introduced a stronger focus on hybridization, including high-performance plug-in hybrids such as the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, combining exceptional power (up to 670 horsepower) with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.

The interior quality and overall luxury experience significantly improved in the third generation, with premium materials, refined ergonomics, and advanced connectivity features that outclassed the second generation. Suspension systems also saw dramatic upgrades, such as adaptive air suspension, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), rear-axle steering, and advanced brake technologies, further enhancing driving dynamics and ride comfort.

In summary, the transition from the second- to third-generation Cayenne involved substantial improvements in technology, performance, luxury, and refinement, marking another significant evolution in Porsche’s ongoing development of the luxury SUV category.

​The Porsche Cayenne, built upon the Volkswagen Group's MLB Evo platform, has undergone notable enhancements in recent years to bolster its performance, comfort, and technological offerings.

Chassis and Suspension Enhancements:

In the 2024 model year, Porsche introduced a new two-valve damper system in the Cayenne's chassis. This technology allows for separate adjustments of compression and rebound, aiming to provide a broader spectrum between ride comfort and dynamic handling. Additionally, the adaptive air suspension system was refined to improve ride quality and stability across various driving conditions. ​

Powertrain Developments:

The Cayenne's powertrain lineup has seen significant updates. The base model's turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine received an increase of 13 horsepower and 36 lb-ft of torque, bringing its total to 348 horsepower and 368 lb-ft. The Cayenne S variant transitioned back to a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 468 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, the E-Hybrid model's electric motor output was enhanced to 174 horsepower, complemented by a larger battery capacity of 25.9 kWh, extending the electric-only driving range.

Technological Advancements:

Porsche integrated a fully digital 12.6-inch instrument cluster into the Cayenne's interior, offering a modernized and driver-focused cockpit. The introduction of an optional 10.9-inch passenger display allows for streaming video content during journeys, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience. Externally, the Cayenne now features Matrix LED headlights as standard, with optional HD Matrix LED units that provide enhanced illumination precision through over 32,000 pixels per headlamp.

The third-generation Porsche Cayenne, introduced in 2017, offers a range of performance levels across its various models. The base Cayenne features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 335 horsepower, enabling a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in approximately 5.7 seconds and reaching a top speed of 152 mph. ​

The Cayenne S is equipped with a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 434 horsepower, achieving 0 to 60 mph in around 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 164 mph. The Cayenne S is equipped with a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 434 horsepower, achieving 0 to 60 mph in around 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 164 mph. The Cayenne Turbo boasts a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 541 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of 177 mph. The high-performance Cayenne Turbo GT features a 631-horsepower version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, achieving 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds and attaining a top speed of 186 mph.

The "best" third-generation Porsche Cayenne variant depends on what you're looking for—performance, luxury, efficiency, or practicality. But here’s a breakdown of standout trims, and why each might be considered the best in its category:

Best for Performance: Cayenne Turbo GT

If you're after the ultimate performance SUV, the Cayenne Turbo GT is the clear winner. With a 631-hp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, it rockets from 0–60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and tops out at 186 mph. It’s been honed for the track, featuring bespoke suspension tuning, rear-wheel steering, active aero, and carbon ceramic brakes. While it's only available in Coupe form, it’s the sharpest-driving SUV Porsche has ever made—beating lap records at Nürburgring.

Best for Efficiency & Everyday Luxury: Cayenne E-Hybrid

If you want a luxury SUV with electric efficiency, the Cayenne E-Hybrid (especially the updated 2024 version) is a great all-rounder. With a 174-hp electric motor and a larger 25.9 kWh battery, it can travel up to 90 km (56 miles) on electric power alone (WLTP). It’s smooth, powerful, and benefits from Porsche’s sharp dynamics while offering lower running costs and emissions.

Best for Balanced Luxury & Speed: Cayenne S

For many buyers, the Cayenne S hits the sweet spot. Starting in 2024, it comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8—a rare treat in today’s downsized engine landscape—making 468 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. It's fast (0–60 mph in ~4.7 seconds), sounds fantastic, and costs significantly less than the Turbo or GT models, making it a value-packed performance SUV.

Best for Practicality: Standard Cayenne SUV

If you want a luxury family hauler with Porsche pedigree but don’t need all the firepower, the base Cayenne SUV is refined, quick enough (0–60 mph in 5.7 sec), and more affordable to run. It’s the most versatile daily driver, with the most rear cargo space (especially compared to the Coupe).

Honorable Mention: Cayenne Coupe Variants

The Cayenne Coupe versions offer a sportier roofline and come with performance goodies (like active aero) even on base trims. If you value looks and a more aggressive stance, the Coupe variants might be your pick—even if they sacrifice a bit of rear headroom and cargo space.

Overall Best?

Cayenne S (2024 and onward) is arguably the best all-rounder: V8 power, premium feel, relatively reasonable pricing, and Porsche DNA through and through.

​As of April 2025, the Porsche Cayenne is in its third generation, which was introduced in 2017 and continues to the present. This generation received a significant mid-cycle update in 2023 for the 2024 model year, featuring enhancements to its design, technology, and powertrain options.

Understanding Porsche Cayenne Model Codes

Porsche uses internal factory codes (called “development codes” or “model series numbers”) for each generation and major variation of their vehicles. Think of them like codenames for different versions or updates of the same car.

Here’s what the Cayenne codes mean:

First Generation (2002–2010):

Code: 955 (2002–2007) – The original Cayenne.

Code: 957 (2008–2010) – A facelift/update of the 955. It kept the same body structure but got styling and feature upgrades.

Second Generation (2011–2017):

Code: 958.1 (2011–2014) – All-new platform, lighter, more refined.

Code: 958.2 (2015–2017) – Mid-cycle facelift of the 958 with new lights, bumpers, and tech.

Third Generation (2018–Present):

Code: 9Y0 – This was the original internal development code used early on in the platform design for the 3rd-gen Cayenne. You may not see it much anymore.

Code: 9YA (2018–2023) – This refers to the standard third-generation Cayenne SUV. Most 2018–2023 Cayennes on the road carry this platform code.

Code: 9YB (2020–2023) – This is the Cayenne Coupe version introduced in 2020. It shares most of its underpinnings with the 9YA but has a sportier roofline and styling.

Code: 9Y3 (2024–present) – This is the facelifted (refresh) version of the third-generation Cayenne. Both the SUV and Coupe versions were updated and are now grouped under this new code.