The Porsche Cayenne has been on sale in the U.S. for nearly a decade, so any outrage over its existence has long since been quelled by its resounding sales success. And in true Porsche style, its success is being celebrated by yet another variant. But the new 2013 Cayenne GTS variant isn't totally without precedent, as a GTS was offered for the 2008 model year with the unusual (for a Cayenne) availability of a six-speed manual transmission, even in the U.S. market.
Unfortunately, the 2013 will not offer a self-rowing option, but will instead come standard with an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission. The new GTS also gets a 15-hp bump over its forebear, with 420 hp from a naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V-8. The new powertrain features an integrated auto stop-start system. Porsche claims the powertrain combination is good for a 0-60 mph sprint of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 162 mph.
Unique exterior cues include high-gloss black trim, side skirts and wider wheel arches, and the hood and front fascia borrowed from the Cayenne Turbo. RS Spyder 20-inch wheels and upgraded brakes from the Cayenne Turbo are also part of the package. Peridot Metallic and Carmine Red are two new color selections available for the GTS. A sport exhaust system finished with matte black twin tailpipes is standard.
On the inside, the Cayenne GTS features eight-way adjustable front sports seats exclusive to the trim level with Alcantara accents. Following in the footsteps of the 911 and Panamera, a new Sport Chrono package is now available for those owners inclined to take their uber-SUV to track day, and not just as a tow-pig. To add an additional sporting touch to the GTS driving experience, a Sound Symposer channels "authentic engine intake sounds" into the cabin.
The GTS will be in U.S. showrooms starting in August 2012, starting at $83,025, including a $975 destination charge.