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Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid And Cayenne Turbo GT Achieve Record Lap Times At Road Atlanta
The Cayenne Turbo GT has set a new standard for performance SUVs at Road Atlanta with a lap time of 1:34.38 minutes. Meanwhile, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid achieved a time of 1:30.98, surpassing the previous record held by the Panamera Turbo S. These achievements complement the benchmark time established earlier by the Taycan Turbo GT.
Fifteen years ago, Porsche introduced an experimental hybrid model, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid, at the Nürburgring endurance race. This car featured a flywheel-based hybrid system and two electric motors for each front wheel. Although it competed in its own class and was not eligible to win, it expanded the concept of performance and provided valuable insights that influenced future models like the 918 Spyder.
Today, Porsche offers a wide range of powertrains, including pure combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric vehicles. This variety reflects Porsche's commitment to providing customers with choices. Patrick Long, a professional driver and brand ambassador for Porsche, demonstrated this versatility by setting records in both the Cayenne Turbo GT and Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid at Road Atlanta.
The Cayenne Turbo GT is known for its practicality and dynamic driving experience. It features a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine producing 650 hp while maintaining ample rear seat space and cargo capacity. The SUV's suspension has been updated with unique hub-carriers to optimize kinematics and an additional center differential cooler for consistent all-wheel-drive performance during high-speed driving.
Patrick Long remarked on the Cayenne's unique characteristics: "The Cayenne is so interesting because it's full of contradictions about what a sports car can be." He noted that despite being a full-size SUV with a high center of gravity, it remains agile with responsive handling due to its V8 sound, suspension calibration, and sticky tires.
The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid broke the previous sedan lap record at Road Atlanta with its advanced features. It combines a 621 hp twin-turbo V8 engine with carbon ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires for track-focused performance. The new generation Panamera introduces Active Ride technology, an active hydraulic suspension system ensuring optimal tire contact throughout laps.
Hybrid Technology Advancements
Long praised the seamless transition between regeneration and boost in the new Panamera: "The new generation Panamera is so much more seamless in the regen and boost transition." He emphasized how braking contributes to high-performance driving by generating energy for acceleration while enhancing stopping power.
The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid continues Porsche's legacy of hybrid innovation that began with models like the 911 GT3 R Hybrid. Long reflected on his experience: "I feel fortunate to have worked with Motorsports during the GT3 R Hybrid program." He highlighted how electric power was used not only for acceleration but also for torque vectoring.
Record-Setting Conditions
The recent records set by Cayenne Turbo GT and Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid join those of Taycan Turbo GT at Road Atlanta under varying weather conditions. On May 28, 2025, temperatures were in mid-70s Fahrenheit with moderate cloud cover and light winds from north. Despite morning rain leaving some patches damp on track surface during runs.
The Algarve Blue Metallic Cayenne Turbo GT was equipped with Pirelli P Zero Corsa PZC4 NC0 tires as standard starting pressure set at 39 psi front/38 psi rear featuring Deep Sea Blue deviated stitching interior package while Oak Green Metallic Neo Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid had Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ND1 tires developed specifically for car starting pressure set at 37 psi front/rear featuring Club Leather interior Espresso Sport Exhaust Dark Bronze tailpipes numerous comfort options including eight-way power rear seats ventilated seats front/rear Premium Package.
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