Europeans have been driving a diesel version of the Porsche Cayenne since 2009, but now Porsche has finally decided that it was the right time for the US market to get in on the action. After being rumored for quite some time, the US version version of the Cayenne->ke212 Diesel will be making its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show.

The new Cayenne Diesel is powered by an efficient 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine that delivers a total of 240 HP and 406 lb.-ft. of torque. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.2 seconds and can hit a top speed of 135 mph. This figures are delivered while still providing a fuel economy of 23 mpg on a combined cycle. The engine is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission, without the Auto Start/Stop function available on other Cayenne variants.

The new Porsche Cayenne Diesel will go on sale in September 2012 at a starting price of $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel.

2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 240
  • Torque: 406
  • Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The only difference between the exterior of the standard Cayenne and the exterior of the new diesel version will be the addition of two "Diesel' badges on the left and right front fenders. Also, for all the 2013 models, customers will get a new standard analog clock on the dashboard and new door lock buttons placed near the front door handles.

For 2013, Sand White has been replaced by a new White paint option. Sand Yellow and Amethyst Metallic are also no longer available.

Engine

The 2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. The engine delivers a total of 240 HP and 406 lb.-ft. of torque, available from as low as 1,750 rpm. This sprints the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.2 seconds, while top speed is limited to 135 mph.

The engine is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission, without the Auto Start/Stop function available on the other Cayenne variants. The model also benefits from the Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which features permanent all wheel drive.

Prices

The Porsche Cayenne Diesel will join the current Cayenne line-up starting in September 2012. Prices will start from $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Competition

There really isn't a ton of competition on the US market in terms of diesel models, but the new Porsche Cayenne Diesel won't be the first diesel-powered model offered either. Volkswagen has had a TDi version for their Touareg->ke321 for quite some time and Audi also has their Q7 TDI version.

That being said, when it comes to all three models, it is just a matter of who offers the best in luxury, as they are all priced in the $55-60K area.