2021 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid models gain larger batteries, increased range
Plug-in SUVs score larger 17.9kWh batteries and greater EV range for 2021
The 2021 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid and Turbo S E-Hybrid have received upgraded electric power systems for the new year, ahead of an Australian arrival in the first quarter of 2021.
Battery capacities in the plug-in Cayennes – in both ‘wagon’ and Coupe body styles – have increased from 14.1kWh to 17.9kWh for MY21 – matching the recently-revealed Audi Q8 TFSI e, which shares its ‘MLB evo’ platform with the Porsche twins.
The upgrade enables an increase in all-electric range by up to 30 per cent, with Porsche claiming figures on Europe’s WLTP test cycle of 48km for the E-Hybrid and 42km for Turbo S E-Hybrid models. Australian range figures based on our more lenient NEDC regulations have yet to be announced.
Accompanying the capacity increase is an “adjusted charging strategy”, which sees the battery recharge at a slower rate beyond 80 per cent charge – likely, though not confirmed, in order to reduce wear and increase longevity – and a revised, more efficient ‘E-Charge’ mode that uses the internal combustion engine to charge the battery to 80 per cent (rather than the outgoing model’s 100 per cent target) while on the road.
While the battery has seen an update for 2021, power outputs carry over unchanged.
The ‘standard’ Cayenne E-Hybrid mates a 250kW 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine with a 100kW electric motor mounted within the eight-speed automatic transmission to produce 340kW, while the flagship Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid trades the V6 for a 404kW, 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 for a combined output of 500kW.
Both models are all-wheel-drive, and can run in all-electric mode at speeds up to 135km/h.
The revised 4, 4S and Turbo S E-Hybrid plug-in powertrains recently unveiled for the facelifted Panamera sedan and wagon have not made their way to the Cayenne range – we’d wager the updated hybrid options will be added to the SUVs’ line-up alongside their mid-life facelift expected to lob in the coming years.
The 2021 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid and Turbo S E-Hybrid are available to order now, ahead of first Australian deliveries in the first quarter of 2021.
MORE: Cayenne news and reviews
MORE: Everything Porsche