Following in the tire tracks of other SUV-coupe models like the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe, Porsche introduced a coupe version of the Cayenne in 2019. The 2020 Porsche Cayenne Coupe is currently offered in a range of trims, including E-Hybrid, S, Turbo, and Turbo S E-Hybrid. But Porsche has hinted that even more variants are coming, one of which was recently spotted testing on the Nurburgring in Germany, looking seriously quick and emitting an amazing V8 engine note.
This mystery Cayenne Coupe model was last spotted a month ago undergoing winter testing but seeing it on the Nurburgring gives us a much better chance to learn what it can do. Based on how Porsche typically releases its trim levels, this could be a Cayenne Coupe GTS or as some rumors indicate, it could be an all-new model called the GT.
The Cayenne GTS historically slots under the Turbo in the Porsche lineup, meaning this new Coupe model would have to produce less than the 550-horsepower figure found in the current Cayenne Turbo Coupe. Previous variants of the Cayenne GTS used a naturally aspirated V8 but the most recent version downsized to a twin-turbo V6, so we doubt Porsche would go back to a V8 for this current generation.
Judging by the loud exhaust note and amazing turn of speed seen in the video, we think this mystery model looks too quick to be a GTS. This Cayenne Coupe chases down (and passes) what appears to be camouflaged Mercedes sedan in the video, so it clearly looks faster than a mid-level model.
We believe this is more likely the Cayenne GT Coupe, which could sit as Porsche's new flagship SUV. This would be the first time the GT name has ever been applied to an SUV and we suspect such a model would be even more powerful and lighter than the 640-hp Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid Coupe.
Porsche has been working on a new drivetrain for the Panamera with the codename "Lion," which is rumored to produce between 750 to 820 hp. With the Lion drivetrain, the Cayenne GT Coupe could dethrone the Audi RS Q8 as the fasted SUV around the Nurburgring.