2009 Porsche Cayenne GTS

Along with the restyling of Porsche's first and only (and best selling model) Cayenne SUV, for 2008, came a new trim, the GTS, bringing the total to four. The GTS fits just below the range-topping Cayenne Turbo in the range and is the sportiest SUV in the lineup, sacrificing the off-road abilities of the other three trims for superior on-road manners.

Power for the GTS comes from an upgraded 4.8 liter V8 that makes 405 horsepower at 6,500 rpm along with 369 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm, up 20 hp on the S. The engine features direct injection, variable intake camshaft phasing and valve lift switching and a lofty 12.5:1 compression ratio. But the bigger news is the fact that, for the first time ever in a V8 SUV, the GTS can be had with a proper six-speed manual transmission, clutch pedal and all. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic is still available, however.

The EPA estimates fuel economy for the manual GTS at 11 mpg in the city cycle and 17 mpg on the highway, while the Tiptronic's numbers are 13 mpg and 18 mpg, respectively.

Other GTS-specific standard features include the 21-inch rims, black monochrome door handles, window trim and pillars, body-color side skirts, red brake calipers, standard air suspension with a 20mm ride height drop compared to the Turbo, a 15 percent lower final drive ratio for better acceleration and a unique interior. To make itself heard as well as noticed, the GTS has a specially tuned sport exhaust system with four tailpipes.

The front end is shared with the Turbo, with its larger intakes and horizontal turn signal and parking lights. A two-plane spoiler is available as a no-cost option.

Inside, new sport seats hold the driver and passenger firmly in place with deep bolsters and Alcantara inserts. Each front seat is 12-way power adjustable and features memory settings. Even the rear folding seat has deep contours for holding ability. Aluminum trim and stainless steel door sills with GTS logo otherwise set the GTS apart from the driver's seat. An Alcantara trim package is an option.

As with the rest of the range, Porsche Stability Management (PSM), with Anti-lock Braking System are standard. Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), an active anti-roll system that anticipates and significantly reduces lateral body movement during cornering, remains an option on the GTS.

A DVD navigation system, Bose digital audio system and a roof rack are optional.