Porsche Cayenne Electric off-road Performance Is Better Than the Gas Model, Engineers Say

When the original Cayenne landed more than 20 years ago, it kept Porsche alive. Now, the Cayenne Electric enters the picture as a separate model line, bringing a new platform and a curb weight that climbs to roughly 5,830 pounds (2,645 kg), making it the heaviest Cayenne ever. However, the company says the added mass hasn’t hindered its capability. In fact, the Porsche Cayenne Electric off-road performance is “much better” than the combustion model it will sell alongside.

This unexpected capability stems not from lower weight, but from the precision of its electric power delivery, according to Porsche’s leadership.

Here is a look at the key specifications and why electrification benefits the trail experience.

Why Electric Power Wins Off-Road

Michael Schaetzle, Porsche’s vice president for the Cayenne line, told Drive that the electric version exceeded the team’s expectations during desert tests in Dubai. The superiority of the EV comes down to the instantaneous and controllable torque delivery of the electric motors.

Precision Control: Schaetzle noted, “It’s so easy because you’ve got so much power. You’re going up the dune and you can modify the power perfectly. It’s much better than the ICE [Internal Combustion Engine].”** The immediate, fine-tuned delivery eliminates the lag and surge found in gasoline engines.
Low Center of Gravity: Despite its mass, the car’s low center of gravity (where the battery sits) helps it perform and handle well, allowing it to “feel lighter” than the ICE model.

Hardware and Utility

The Porsche Cayenne Electric off-road capability is backed by serious hardware, maintaining the utility of its gasoline-powered sibling.

Feature	Specification (with Optional Offroad Package)	Context
Max Towing Capacity	7,700–7,716 lbs (3,500 kg)	Matches the capacity of the current, combustion-engined Cayenne.
Max Ground Clearance	9.6 Inches (245 mm)	Achieved by using the air suspension’s extra off-road ride height.
Approach Angle	25 Degrees	Superior angle for clearing obstacles during steep climbs.
Suspension	Porsche Active Ride System	Advanced air suspension that controls body movements and improves handling both on- and off-road.
Architecture	800-Volt Electrical System	Supports fast charging (10–80% in 16 minutes) and sustained power delivery.

The Cayenne Electric, which will be available in mid-2026, including a Turbo Electric variant with up to 1,156 hp, is designed to prove that the mass and weight of electrification have benefited—not compromised—the SUV’s adventurous capability.

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