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With the 2008 restyle the designers wanted to lower the visual center of gravity of the Porsche Cayenne. The headlights were moved farther apart and feature new bi-xenon designs. The air intakes were re-shaped and a rear spoiler adorns the trailing edge of the roof. Wheels are available in 17-, 18-, 19-, 20-, and 21-inch sizes with a variety of finishes and styles. Aerodynamics are better than the first-generation (2003-07) models. New taillights, a redesigned rear bumper cover, a new exhaust system, and a new diffuser setup brought changes to the rear for 2008. The outside mirrors mimic the shape of the tail lights.Cayenne is easily identifiable as a Porsche with headlights and grille that resemble that of the 911 and Boxster. From the driver's seat, the valley between the headlights looks similar, only wider. The more powerful models have functional design cues indicating higher levels of performance. The GTS and Turbos are distinguished by larger grilles that increase the amount of air flowing through the coolers and the Turbos have strakes along the hood. The Cayenne is not small, measuring nearly 189 inches in length, with a wheelbase of 112.4 inches. That's about the same length as the current BMW X5, X6 (191.1 inches), and Mercedes M-Class (188.5 inches). Cayenne is also similar to its German rivals in width and height. In size, Cayenne most closely matches Volkswagen's Touareg, which is no surprise given the two vehicles were developed jointly. Engines and other Cayenne components are built by Porsche in Zuffenhausen, Germany, and mated to the Cayenne at an assembly plant in Leipzig. Cayenne, Touareg, and the Audi Q7 share basic structures, though the Audi is stretched for three-row passenger space. Engine and suspension tuning, styling and all the finish work were the separate responsibility of each manufacturer and in many cases only 15 percent of parts are common. The Cayenne offers near optimal front/rear weight distribution of 52/48 percent, for outstanding handling balance in all circumstances; the weight in most SUVs is more heavily biased toward the front. At least as important, in Porsche's view, is the Cayenne's optimal aerodynamic balance. Aerodynamic downforce on the rear wheels increases with speed, delivering the high-speed stability that has become a Porsche trademark.
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