The first-generation Cayenne Turbo (Type 9PA/E1) debuted as one of the initial models in the lineup. It was powered by a 4.5-liter V8 engine producing 450 PS (331 kW), capable of accelerating from 0–100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. To compete with the Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG, Porsche introduced the Turbo S in 2006, featuring a twin-turbocharged 4.5-liter V8 that increased output to 521 PS (383 kW) and 720 N⋅m of torque. This version achieved a top speed of 167 mph and utilized a six-speed automatic Tiptronic S transmission. Both the Turbo and Turbo S models were equipped with off-road hardware, including a low-range transfer case, a locking differential, and height-adjustable suspension.
In 2008, an updated 9PA Turbo was revealed at the Beijing Auto Show. This version introduced a larger 4.8-liter V8 engine featuring direct fuel injection (DFI), producing 500 PS (368 kW). A new Turbo S model was also launched, delivering 550 hp and featuring optional ceramic composite brakes.
The second-generation Turbo, unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, utilized the 4.8-liter twin-turbo V8 from the Panamera Turbo, producing 500 PS (368 kW). This generation focused on weight reduction, shedding approximately 250 kg by removing the low-range transfer case and increasing the use of aluminum and magnesium. Standard equipment for the Turbo and Turbo S included a navigation system with voice recognition and an optional four-zone climate control system. In 2014, a facelifted version was launched, and by 2017, the Turbo S variant was used to repeat the Airbus A380 towing feat originally set by the S Diesel to demonstrate the model's 800 Nm torque capacity.
The third-generation Cayenne Turbo debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2017. It moved to a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 549 PS (404 kW) and 770 N⋅m of torque. This model introduced Porsche Surface Coated Brakes (PSCB) as standard equipment. In August 2019, Porsche released the Turbo S E-Hybrid, a plug-in hybrid combining the 4.0-liter V8 with a 136 PS electric motor for a total output of 680 PS (500 kW).
In June 2021, Porsche introduced the Cayenne Turbo GT, based on the Coupé body style. Driven by test driver Lars Kern, the vehicle set a class record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with a lap time of 7:38.925. The Turbo GT features a 640 PS (471 kW) 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and is capable of 0–100 km/h in 3.3 seconds. It sits 18 mm lower than standard models and utilizes 22-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires.
The Turbo nameplate transitioned to a fully electric powertrain with the launch of the fourth-generation Cayenne Electric on November 19, 2025. The dual-motor electric Turbo model is the most powerful regular-series production Porsche to date, featuring a base output of over 804 hp (600 kW) and a launch control peak of 1,072 hp (800 kW). This electric variant utilizes a 113 kWh battery pack and silicon carbide inverters to achieve 98 percent motor efficiency.
While primarily a road vehicle, the Turbo's performance DNA was shared with specialized variants like the Cayenne S Transsyberia, a racing vehicle designed for the Transsyberia rally. Although the Transsyberia used the GTS engine, it utilized the locking differentials and off-road technologies pioneered by the early Turbo models. Additionally, the Turbo GT variant serves as the performance pinnacle of the Cayenne Coupé line, which was inspired by early 2002 design concepts for alternate body shapes.