The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT has officially etched its name into the record books, becoming the fastest production SUV to conquer the demanding Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This remarkable achievement, with a blistering lap time of 2:14.046, marks the first production car lap record sanctioned by both the circuit organizers and the Emirates Motorsport Organisation (EMSO). The new benchmark highlights not only the incredible engineering prowess of Porsche but also establishes a rigorous new standard for official production car lap records at the renowned F1 venue.
Powertrain and Performance Details: At the heart of the record-breaking Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT lies the most powerful Porsche V8 engine. This formidable powerplant generates an impressive 659 PS (Pferdestärke) of power and 850 Nm of torque, ensuring exhilarating acceleration and relentless performance. This immense power is seamlessly delivered to the wheels via an advanced eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission, engineered for rapid and precise gear changes. Enhancing its track capabilities, the Cayenne Turbo GT comes standard with a suite of performance upgrades including the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilization system, Active Rear Wheel Steering for enhanced agility, and the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system, offering exceptional stopping power and fade resistance. These integrated technologies work in harmony to provide a driving experience that is both thrilling and remarkably composed, even under extreme conditions.
New Official Production Lap Record Management Debuted: The record-setting event at Yas Marina Circuit introduced a pioneering official format for production car lap records, ensuring stringent verification and fairness. Under this new protocol, all participating vehicles undergo thorough scrutineering prior to track activity to confirm their adherence to production specifications. Track sessions are limited to a 60-minute practice followed by a 45-minute qualifying session, during which the official lap record time must be established. The entire process is meticulously overseen by EMSO, with experienced senior FIA official Fergus Lavers leading the operations and the full facilities of race control in effect. Even track limits are rigorously enforced, mirroring the strict regulations of professional motorsport events, ensuring the integrity of every recorded lap time.
Porsche’s Commitment to Performance: Wissam Khalil, General Manager of Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, expressed gratitude to Yas Marina Circuit and EMSO for collaborating to establish this new, official format. He also extended congratulations to racing driver Ramez Azzam for setting a time that surpassed their previous Cayenne Turbo GT lap record from 2023. This dedication to pushing performance boundaries and setting new benchmarks underscores Porsche’s continuous pursuit of automotive excellence. The Yas Marina Circuit, a global hub for motorsport and the host of the Formula 1 season finale, now serves as an official platform for sanctioning production car lap records, reinforcing its status as a benchmark for performance in the region.
Ramez Azzam Performs Under Pressure: Ramez Azzam, a formidable racing driver and winner of the GT4 class in this year’s Dubai 24 Hours, was the skilled pilot entrusted with the task of setting the new record. Azzam remarked on the added pressure of the new official format, stating it felt like a proper motorsport event, especially with track limits being closely monitored. He was profoundly impressed by the Cayenne Turbo GT’s performance around the full Grand Prix layout. Azzam highlighted not just the impressive power and sound of the engine, but particularly commended the SUV’s braking and handling. He noted that for a vehicle of its size, its ability to brake late, maintain high corner speed, and remain incredibly flat through turns was truly remarkable, allowing him to push it with immense confidence.
Summary
- Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT sets new production SUV lap record at Yas Marina Circuit.
- Lap time of 2:14.046 on the 5.281-kilometre Grand Prix layout.
- Powered by the most powerful Porsche V8 engine (659 PS, 850 Nm torque).
- Features 8-speed Tiptronic S, PDCC, Active Rear Wheel Steering, and PCCB.
- New official production car lap record format sanctioned by Yas Marina Circuit and EMSO.
- Driven by racing driver Ramez Azzam.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided by the manufacturer and circuit organizers. Performance figures and records are subject to official verification and specific track conditions.
Source: Porsche
AI Assistance: Gemini
