2018 Porsche Cayenne pricing and specs revealed

The first three versions of the new Porsche Cayenne are now available to order in Australia, starting at $116,300 before on-roads.

But that’s just for the standard Cayenne with a 3.0-litre turbo V6 under the bonnet. That model produces 250kW and 450Nm, already more than most SUV drivers would need on a daily basis.

But the Cayenne S, priced at $155,100, adds a turbo (though this engine is a 2.9-litre), and with it comes an extra 74kW and 100Nm for 324kW/550Nm all up.

The S is claimed to run a 0-100km/h sprint in just 5.2 seconds or 4.9 with Sport Plus, impressive for a 2020kg beast. It also now boasts rear-wheel steering (as does the base Cayenne) to make itself a little more nimble and stable. That’s something that’ll come in handy at its 265km/h top speed.

Moving to the top of the food chain, for now, is the Cayenne Turbo.

Thanks to the Porsche Panamera, it scores a 404kW/770Nm twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 capable of launching the 2175kg mammoth to 100km/h in just 4.1 seconds, or 3.9 with Sport Plus.

Until the Turbo S comes along, the Cayenne Turbo is the most expensive variant of the badge, coming in at $239,400.

It seems steep, but it’s cheaper and faster (Porsche says) than any of the twin-turbo V6-powered Panameras.

It also reaches a top speed of 286km/h, a speed few would be brave enough to hit in an SUV.

The Cayenne S and Turbo both have panoramic sunroof as standard, while the Turbo gains ambient lighting, seat ventilation and four-zone climate control as standard.

First deliveries are expected to arrive locally in mid-2018.