( Worldcarfans ) - Porsche will be unveiling a sporting new version of the popular Caynenne S model called the GTS at the Fankfurt Motor Show next week. With the latest sales figures in North American putting the Cayenne up 45% this year, there's no doubt Porsche is keen to offer more selection. However, despite the original SUV mantra of off-road prowess, this GTS model seems to be dressed with urban street wear. A lowered suspension, 21-inch multi-spoke wheels, Cayenne Turbo body kit and special GTS Red and Nordic Gold Metallic paint scheme define the look. But the sporty package isn't just for looks.
For the first time, the Cayenne is equipped with driving aids which were previously reserved for Porsche sports cars. Such goodies include electronically-controlled suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which together lower the Cayenne 24mm. Other driver aids optionally available include air suspension and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active anti-roll system.
On the inside the front seats are upgraded to newly-developed 12-way adjustable sports seats as well as a mix of leather and Alcantara upholstery.
The 4.8 liter V8 gets a slight power increase of 20hp to 405hp (302kW) while torque remains unchanged. Six-speed manual transmission comes standard but the Tipronic six-speed is also available as an option. The power increase plus a shorter final drive ratio (4.1:1 as opposed to 3.55:1) which is included with the standard transmission reduces 0-62mph (0-100km/h) time to just 6.1 seconds (0.5 seconds faster).
The Cayenne hits global markets in February 2008. In Germany it will cost 76,725 Euros including 19 percent VAT. Base price is 64,300 Euros. The base price for the USA (MSRP) is US $69,300 and in the UK and Ireland from ?54,350.