Overview

The Porsche Cayenne Diesel, produced from 2010 to 2018, was a high-performance luxury SUV that combined Porsche’s sporty DNA with the efficiency of a diesel engine. Below is an overview of the Cayenne Diesel for this period, including notable updates:

2010-2014 Porsche Cayenne Diesel (first generation):

  • Engine: The initial Cayenne Diesel featured a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine producing around 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission.
  • Performance: The first-generation Cayenne Diesel could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.2 seconds and had a top speed of about 135 mph. It offered a sporty driving experience with Porsche’s signature handling characteristics.
  • Efficiency: One of the main selling points of the Cayenne Diesel was its fuel efficiency. It delivered impressive fuel economy compared to its gasoline-powered counterparts, making it a more environmentally friendly choice for an SUV.

2015-2018 Porsche Cayenne Diesel (second generation):

  • Engine: In 2015, the Cayenne Diesel received an updated engine. It now featured a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, similar to the previous generation. However, Porsche improved the engine’s efficiency and reduced emissions.
  • Performance: The second-generation Cayenne Diesel maintained its strong performance credentials, with a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 7.2 seconds and a top speed of around 135 mph. It continued to offer an engaging driving experience.
  • Updates: Over the years, Porsche introduced various updates and enhancements to the Cayenne Diesel, including improvements in infotainment systems, safety features, and interior materials. The exterior design remained largely consistent with the Cayenne’s distinctive look.
  • Diesel Emissions Scandal: It’s worth noting that in 2015, Porsche, like other Volkswagen Group brands, became embroiled in the diesel emissions scandal. This led to increased scrutiny of diesel engines and ultimately contributed to a decline in diesel sales.
  • End of Diesel: In 2018, Porsche announced that it would discontinue diesel engines in its lineup due to changing market preferences and stricter emissions regulations. This marked the end of the Cayenne Diesel’s production after the 2018 model year.

Overall, the Porsche Cayenne Diesel offered a unique combination of Porsche’s sporty heritage with the practicality of a diesel engine. It was known for its performance, handling, and improved fuel efficiency compared to its gasoline-powered counterparts, but its production was ultimately discontinued due to changing industry trends and emissions concerns.

How to spot

  • Body coloured grill (Cayenne/Cayenne S has blacked out details)
  • 2 large oval exhausts

Specifications (first generation)

Capacity: 2967cc

Compression ratio: 16.8

Maximum Power: 245hp @ 4400rpm

Maximum Torque: 550Nm@ 2000 rpm

Brakes: Front 360mm and Rear 330mm

Suspension: Fully independent double wishbone

Wheels & Tyres: 8J x 18-inch wheels with 255/55 ZR 18

Length: 4,846mm

Width: 1938mm

Weight: 2100kg

Specifications (second generation)

Capacity: 2967cc

Compression ratio: 16.8

Maximum Power: 262hp @ 4000rpm

Maximum Torque: 580Nm@ 1750 rpm

Brakes: Front 360mm and Rear 330mm

Suspension: Fully independent double wishbone

Wheels & Tyres: 8J x 18-inch wheels with 255/55 ZR 18

Length: 4,846mm

Width: 1938mm

Weight: 2110kg

Did you know?

Cayenne Diesel Towing Record: In 2012, Porsche decided to demonstrate the Cayenne Diesel’s impressive towing capability by setting a Guinness World Record for the heaviest aircraft pull by a production car. They used a Cayenne Diesel to tow an Airbus A380, one of the world’s largest passenger airplanes, weighing in at approximately 285 tons (around 628,000 pounds), at the Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. This remarkable feat showcased both the power and engineering prowess of the Cayenne Diesel, making it a memorable moment in the history of the vehicle.