2008 Paris Auto Show: 2010 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia
Porsche unveils homage to the Transsyberia Rally-winning Cayenne S models at the Paris auto show © 2009 Autobytel Inc. All rights reserved.
Written By: MyRide.com
Reprinted under license.
Why it Matters
Over time, Porsche's reputation has been built on racing, but recently its big profits have been built on SUVs. The 2010 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia is a way to acknowledge both realities. A tribute to the off-road modified Porsche Cayenne S models that have dominated the 4,400-mile rally that roughhouses through the wilds of Russia and Mongolia, the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia looks tough and travels tough -- as if you were ever going to do that to your Porsche. Still, it's nice to know that you could.
What it Looks Like
The Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia looks, appropriately enough, like the party version of a Porsche Cayenne S. Four color combinations are available, including a choice of black or silver metallic with orange accents. The accent color also adorns the air intake vents, outside mirrors and rear spoiler. For no extra cost, you can order your Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia with off-road lights and showy "Cayenne S Transsyberia" side graphics.
Inside, the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia features sport seats with sweet Alcantara inserts. Alcantara also covers the multifunction steering wheel (which gets a "12 o'clock" orientation marking at the top of the wheel -- a classic rally touch).
What's Under the Skin
Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia models enjoy a 405-horsepower 4.8-liter V-8 coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. The best of Porsche traction and stability systems are also included. To embolden the vehicle's off-road character, front and rear skid plates are standard equipment and an optional off-road package features a variable, lockable rear differential, rock rails with integrated skid plates, and extra protection for the engine bay, fuel tank and rear axle.
What We Think
So many people in this country are determined to take their Porsche Cayenne and Cayenne S models off-road, that we think the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia is long overdue...wait a second, nobody takes their Porsche Cayenne off-road except Porsche. Nevertheless, image is everything, and the 2010 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia casts the right off-road image and backs it up with the right equipment and a very awkward name. Stuttgart says that it plans to bring 600 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia models to the North America next year. No price has yet been set.
By Richard Homan and Greg Brown
Photo credit: Greg Brown
