2008 Chicago Auto Show: 2008 Porsche Cayenne GTS

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What it Is

2008 Porsche Cayenne GTS Preview - 2008 Chicago Auto Show: For those who can't afford the Turbo with their S, Porsche has an answer: the 2008 Cayenne GTS, with more power, a manual transmission and a more sporting suspension. It's built for drivers who have to drive an SUV, on a budget, but like to put some fun and challenge into their daily grind. Other upgrades include Porsche's active electronic damping and air suspension as standard equipment, redesigned sports seats front and back, extended wheel arches and new body work front and rear. The GTS goes on sale in the U.S. this month with an MSRP of $69,300.

Why it Matters

If you want power, get the Turbo. If you want tight handling and a little more power, try the less expensive but still fun Cayenne GTS. Plus, you get two nifty and exclusive paint colors: Nordic Gold (pictured here) and GTS Red.

What's Under the Hood

Of course, any talk about "budget" and 70 grand spent on a vehicle is purely a coincidence, but you get the point if you're priced out of the Turbo. As for the GTS, there's a six-speed manual transmission for starters, and the fact that it is the first Cayenne to offer Porsche's Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard equipment. This helps get a big rig like the Cayenne around corners like a car, kinda, especially when you add optional air springs and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC). The GTS also makes 20 more horsepower, to 405 hp at 6,500 rpm and 369 lb.-ft. of torque.

What It Looks Like

Porsche says the front looks like the Cayenne Turbo, and we'll have to take their word on that for now. Bigger fender flares and 21-inch wheels, along with the lower stance are the main differences between the GTS and its three Cayenne siblings. Inside are redesigned sport seats covered in Alcantara.

What Porsche Says

The automaker describes the Cayenne GTS as the model with the best on-road characteristics.

What We Think

Due out in February of 2008, the Porsche Cayenne GTS gets a base sticker price of $69,300. That's an interesting vehicle for just under $70,000, enough so that one has to wonder why the six-speed manual is the gearbox of choice. The Cayenne is, after all, built for drivers who don't necessarily want to have to earn it anymore.

--Staff

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