The first-generation Porsche Cayenne turns 20 this year and the Stuttgart-based automaker has marked its anniversary on several occasions. The celebrations continue, however, and Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE wants to take things to the next level with a very special project. The company’s division commissioned two of its importers to the United Arab Emirates to restore and adapt its fleet of first-generation Cayennes for off-road use. The ultimate goal is to have the SUV ready for this weekend’s Porsche Icon festival.
The best thing about refurbished vehicles is that they are not just garage queens. The modified Cayenne has been tested by media representatives in the Hatta desert mountain region, near Dubai, and is now being prepared for display at the Icons of Porsche festival. During the event, eight utilities will also be available for guests to tackle off-road routes with driving experts.
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“We were tasked with regenerating the first generation Cayenne to accentuate its off-road capabilities through accessories and modifications if needed, as well as taking advantage of some of the accessories that were recently available for it from Porsche Classic,” Darren Abel, one of the Porsche dealers. in the Middle East, comment. “In conjunction with Porsche Center Dubai, we purchased four E1s each, from 2007 to 2010 examples, and I think both teams have enjoyed modifying them and giving the E1 new life.”
The hardest part of the restoration process was finding a vehicle that met Porsche’s requirements. The Cayenne is in good condition and in standard form as much as possible has been sourced from various places and has been through Porsche Approved verification before being approved for modification. All the vehicles needed a lot of work, as is to be expected from a car that is now between 17 and 20 years old. After a complete restoration and off-road modification, there are already customers who want to buy it.
One of the Cayenne used for the project was purchased from a customer who asked Porsche why it wanted to buy it. Upon hearing of the plans, they expressed interest in buying the vehicle back upon completion. To a certain extent, says Porsche, this project renews the love for the first generation Cayenne.
