Porsche’s all-new Cayenne performance SUV comes standard in most global markets with a 3.6L V6, but a new report suggests that China will get a different form of the base-model Cayenne to skate under the country’s tax laws.
According to Motor Authority, the base-model Cayenne will arrive in China with the same 3.0L supercharged TFSI V6 found under the hood of the Audi S4. That motor is no stranger to the Cayenne as it is also used in the Cayenne S Hybrid model.
China is reportedly in line for the 3.0 TSFI unit due to the engine’s displacement. Per China’s tax laws, vehicles with engines displacing between 3.0L and 4.0L are subject to a 40 percent tax – which would mean a hefty penalty for the 3.6L Cayenne model sold in the U.S. and Europe. However, the 3.0L actually displaces 2,995cc, meaning it qualifies for the lower 25 percent tax put on vehicles with engines up to 3.0L.
In addition to being cheaper to buy, the China version of the base Cayenne will likely sport better performance than the V6 model we get here. Under the hood of the S4 the 3.0L makes 333 horsepower, trumping the 3.6L Cayenne by 33 horsepower. Not only will the 3.0L model be more powerful, but it should also post better fuel economy figures.
No word if Porsche plans to offer the 3.0L TSFI in the Cayenne in other world markets, but the prospect seems likely. Although the more advanced mill would surely tack on a few extra bucks to the price of the Cayenne, there would be room to hide it in the SUV’s $47,000 starting price. However, Porsche could be concerned that the more powerful and fuel efficient base model could eat into the sales of the company’s more profitable Cayenne S and Cayenne S Hybrid models, which could be a major road block to U.S. and European sales.
References
1.’2011 Porsche Cayenne…’ view
