The Porsche MA1.70 is a 3,397 cc, water‑cooled V6 petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2016. It powered the front — engine Porsche Cayenne and featured a 90‑degree V6 architecture, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and direct fuel injection (DFI). In standard form it delivered 220 kW (300 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, with a redline of 6,500 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the second — generation (92A) Cayenne S Hybrid and select V6 variants, the MA1.70 was e…
Production years 2013–2016 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007; VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/92A70).
The Porsche MA1.70 is a 3,397 cc water‑cooled V6 petrol engine engineered for the 92A-generation Cayenne (2013–2016). It combines DOHC, 24-valve architecture with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, flexible power. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with modern drivetrain integration and efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,397 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
Power output | 220 kW (300 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
Torque | 400 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (Bosch HDEV5) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual radiators | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam Plus | |
Oil type | Porsche Longlife 0W-40 (C40 specification) | |
Dry weight | 192 kg |
The Porsche MA1.70 was used exclusively in Porsche's 92A platform with front-mounted, longitudinal orientation and no external licensing. This engine was integrated into mild-hybrid and conventional V6 layouts—hybrid variants feature additional motor/generator interfaces on the starter ring gear—and all adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The MA1.70's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup and high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in urban-driven or short-trip examples. Porsche internal data from 2016 indicated intake cleaning interventions in over 18% of MA1.70 engines by 70,000 km, while UK DVSA records show associated misfire-related MOT failures in poorly maintained vehicles. Fuel quality and driving patterns make maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2013–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The MA1.70 is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Its main weakness is carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection—common in urban use. Highway-driven examples fare better. With regular oil changes, RON 98 fuel, and periodic intake cleaning, it can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
Top issues include intake valve carbon buildup, high-pressure fuel pump wear, VarioCam solenoid faults, and water pump impeller failure. These are documented in Porsche service bulletin TSB-MA1-2015. Preventative maintenance is key to longevity.
Exclusively the 2013–2016 Porsche Cayenne (92A), including base V6 and Cayenne S Hybrid variants. It was never used in Macan, Panamera, or 911 models. All are front-engine, longitudinal layouts with 300 PS output.
Modestly. Stage 1 (ECU remap) yields ~320–330 PS. Full builds with cams, exhaust, and ported heads can reach 350+ PS. However, direct injection limits airflow potential—intake manifold and valve upgrades are often needed for significant gains.
Typical consumption is 12–14 L/100km (24–20 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can reach 9.5 L/100km (30 mpg UK). Hybrid variants offer slightly better city economy due to regenerative braking and electric assist.
Yes. The MA1.70 is an interference engine. If the timing chains fail or jump, pistons can contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. However, the chain system is robust with proper oil maintenance.
Porsche specifies 0W-40 synthetic oil meeting Porsche Longlife C40 (or newer) standards. Change every 15,000 km or annually. This oil ensures proper VarioCam function and chain longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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