2009 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia: Rally-Inspired Version

In celebration of the Cayenne S’ success at the ‘Transsyberia Rally’ that runs 7,200 km (4,460 miles) from Moscow, Russia all the way to the Mongolian Capital of Ulan Bator, Porsche decided to develop a limited edition version of its SUV that will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. Like the slightly modified Cayenne S vehicles that took the first six places at this year’s Transsyberia Rally, the special edition model is based on the Cayenne S but comes equipped with the Cayenne GTS’ more powerful 4.8-liter V8 that produces 405 HP at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) at 3,500 rpm. -Continued

The V8 engine is matted to a 6-speed manual gearbox carried over from the GTS but shortened by 15 percent to 4.1:1. Buyers can also opt for a six-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission. According to Porsche, the Cayenne S Transsyberia with the manual gearbox can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 6.1 seconds, 0.5 seconds faster than the Cayenne S while the interim sprint from 80 – 120 km/h in fifth gear is completed in 6.6 seconds, two seconds faster than the Cayenne S. The Transsyberia’s top speed 253 km/h or 158 mph.

On the outside the Cayenne S Transsyberia is distinguished by the four available color concepts including the rally combinations Black/Orange and Crystal Silver Metallic/Orange along with the more discreet color combos Black/Meteor Grey Metallic and Meteor Grey Metallic/Crystal Silver Metallic. With the exception of the Meteor Grey Metallic/Crystal Silver Metallic combo, the 18-inch Cayenne S II wheels come in each case in a contrasting color, as do the side plates on the air intake grid, the “Cayenne S Transsyberia” model designation (applied as a no-cost option at the side), the exterior mirror housings and the upper part of the extended roof spoiler with its double wing profile fixed in position.

Customers can also add the offroad roof headlights of the competition model as a no-cost option. The lights are placed in the vehicle upon delivery, since in Germany, at least, such headlights on the roof are not homologated for use on public roads.

Inside, the Transsyberia features ornamental trim on the dashboard and the doors, on the instruments and dials, the belts and foot mat surrounds comes in each case in the contrasting color chosen for the exterior. Finally, the steering wheel rim is padded and finished in alcantara while as an homage to motorsport, it also features a 12 o’clock mark in one of the contrasting colors.

The new Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia will hit Porsche dealerships in January 2009 with prices in the German market starting at 77,558 Euros.