Porsche S
The 4.2L V8 TDI in the Cayenne 92A Turbo Diesel — 382 hp and 850 Nm, an unusual combination. The torque is the most impressive thing about this engine: 850 Nm already at 1,750 rpm, which pushes the SUV forward effortlessly despite its weight. Technically a complex powertrain with twin-turbo architecture and diesel-specific components. Timing chain, DPF and turbo wear at high mileages are the risk areas. As a touring vehicle with V8-petrol-level performance at significantly lower consumption, this is an interesting proposition — for diesel fans.
Cayenne S — the sensible sports version
The Cayenne S delivers 80% of the Turbo experience for 60% of the price. The V8 (or biturbo V6 from the 958.2) provides composed power for motorway and overtaking. On country roads the two-plus tonnes are noticeable, but Porsche-typical steering precision and strong brakes make the difference over an Audi Q7 or BMW X5. Long-distance capable, sufficiently sporty, strong residuals.
Engine Weaknesses 6
Cayenne transfer case (multi-plate clutch) on all 92A models including S/GTS can fail. Porsche had an extended warranty (10 years for 2011–2014, 7 years for 2015–2018). Outside warranty approximately 6,000 $.
Symptoms: Vibration/judder on pull-off, shift shudder, 'AWD system' warning, requires diagnosis
Chain tensioner loses tension at high mileage. Chain elongates, valve timing shifts. Regular oil changes reduce the risk.
Symptoms: Chain rattle on cold start, rough running, check engine light
Biturbo V6 Cayenne 92A S/GTS: Heat ageing hardens O-rings on the oil feed lines to the turbos. Oil enters the intercooler.
Symptoms: Blue smoke under acceleration, oil loss, reduced boost pressure
CURA/CXZA engines share timing chain kit (Amazon listing confirms: CXZA CURA CTLA 3.6L V6 2015–2018). Chain stretch is typical for the Porsche V6 at high mileage.
Symptoms: Chain rattle on cold start, disappears after warm-up
Crankcase ventilation on the 3.6 Turbo is prone to diaphragm failure. Boost pressure damage causes oil to enter the intake tract and intercooler system.
Symptoms: Elevated oil consumption, oil in intake hoses, vacuum warning, engine warning light
Pure direct injection without port injection leads to oil carbon deposits on intake valves. Power loss and rough running.
Symptoms: Poor throttle response, rough idle, slight power loss
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
When turning to full lock, power steering assistance drops out briefly several times. Power steering pump overloaded or valve block faulty.
Level sensors and air suspension compressor fail through wear. Improved over the 955, but still a cost factor.
Blocked sunroof drains lead to water ingress. If the Bose sound system is fitted, the subwoofer in the boot can be damaged.
PDK gearbox and transfer case develop leaks. Oil loss at seals and shaft seals requires regular monitoring.
Rear doors develop rust at the door fold, often only 3-5 years after first registration. Porsche acknowledged the defects under warranty.
Climate control heats to maximum when A/C is switched off. Temperature sensor delivers invalid values. No fault codes stored.