Is the Porsche Electric Cayenne the Next Big Thing in SUVs?

New Cayenne confirmed to be electrified
Will it create a family look with the Macan?
Rendering based on spy shots also appear

The Porsche Cayenne is widely credited with saving Porsche during a financial crisis and kickstarting the high-performance SUV craze. Its success prompted luxury supercar manufacturers like Lamborghini and Ferrari to reconsider their strategies and enter the SUV market.

However, enthusiasts’ reactions to Porsche’s recent moves are mixed. The entry-level SUV Macan was converted to an electric vehicle. While it is known that the Cayenne full-change (redesigned) model will be launched later and will also be an electric vehicle, a predicted rendering has emerged and drawn attention.

In common with the Macan
Application of detachable headlamp

Avarvarii, an Italian automobile illustration company, unveiled an expected rendering of the Porsche Cayenne full-change (redesigned model) on June 8, 2024 (local time). Previously, the K1 (project name) prototype, known as the Cayenne’s upper model, was captured, but the Cayenne model name is used as is, and it is known that it will be a 7-seater specification.

This rendering was produced based on spy shots of the Cayenne full-change model, similar to the coupe type. In the case of the front part, like the previously launched new Macan, the design with the DRL and headlamp separated at the top and bottom attracts attention. As expected from an electric vehicle, most of the front fascia is blocked, and the lower air vent is equipped with an adaptive flap that opens and closes flexibly, depending on the situation.

The electric vehicle platform is also shared
What are the differentiating factors on the front?

Although it is still only in the expected rendering stage, the front-end details are expected to be similar to those of the Macan and differentiate it. The Macan’s air vents are all located at the bottom, but the expected new Cayenne is separated into upper and lower parts starting from the license plate. The upper air vent also emphasizes the sense of horizontality by connecting the rectangular headlamp box.

Meanwhile, the new Cayenne is being developed based on Volkswagen Group’s next-generation electric vehicle architecture, SSP (Scalable Systems Platform). The most significant advantage of the electric vehicle platform is that it can secure a more expansive space and mount a large capacity battery than an internal combustion vehicle-derived electric vehicle. Accordingly, a higher level of marketability is expected than the existing model.

The most powerful specs ever
Unveiled as early as the second half of next year

The prototype’s camouflage film creates a sense of separation in the rear side. Nevertheless, commonalities can be found between the expected renderings and spy shots. For a three-row SUV, the rear quarter glass is narrow. The prototype’s rear quarter glass has a different shape due to the addition of a camouflage film, but it is unlikely to provide a sufficient sense of openness to third-row passengers.

Meanwhile, the upcoming fully redesigned Porsche Cayenne is expected to boast the most potent specifications yet. Industry insiders suggest that similar to the Macan, it will feature dual motors as standard. The highest-spec model is anticipated to deliver a combined peak output of over 1,000 horsepower. The target range on a single charge is projected to be 700 km (435 miles), according to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). The new Cayenne will likely be unveiled as early as the second half of next year.