The Porsche MAB.03 is a 3,996 cc, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection (DFI), and variable valve timing (VarioCam Plus). In standard form it delivered 331 kW (450 PS) and 550 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end response and refined high-RPM power for Porsche’s performance SUV and sedan platforms.
Fitted to the Porsche Cayenne and Panamera, the MAB.03 was engineered to deliver V8 character with modern efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved via gasoline particulate filters (GPF), high-efficiency catalytic converters, and precise lambda control, enabling Euro 6c compliance across all markets from launch.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system, noted in Porsche Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑971‑17‑12. While less severe than in smaller turbo engines, prolonged low-RPM urban driving can still lead to airflow restriction and misfires. Porsche recommends periodic inspection after 100,000 km.
All production years (2016–2020) meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/MAB03).
The Porsche MAB.03 is a 3,996 cc V8 twin-turbo petrol engine engineered for the Cayenne and Panamera (2016–2020). It combines direct fuel injection with twin variable-vane turbochargers to deliver strong low-end torque and smooth high-RPM power. Designed to meet Euro 6c from inception, it balances performance with stringent emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 331 kW (450 PS) @ 5,750–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 1,800–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI), 200 bar | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit radiator and oil cooler | |
| Turbocharger | Twin variable-vane turbochargers (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam Plus | |
| Oil type | Porsche C4 0W‑40 full synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The MAB.03’s twin-turbo V8 layout provides immediate torque from 1,800 rpm, ideal for responsive road driving. However, its direct injection system can lead to intake valve carbon buildup in low-RPM use. Porsche C4 0W‑40 oil is essential for turbo and chain longevity. Gasoline particulate filters (GPF) require periodic high-load driving to regenerate—extended city use may trigger warning lights. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are recommended to protect timing components.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C4 0W‑40 full synthetic oil (Porsche SIB TSB‑971‑17‑12). ACEA C5 oils may be used if Porsche C4 is unavailable, but long-term GPF compatibility is optimized with OEM spec.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all model years (2016–2020) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/MAB03.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power output assumes 98 RON fuel and optimal boost pressure (Porsche TIS Doc. 971‑PERF‑20).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 971‑ENG‑12, 971‑TURBO‑15, TSB‑971‑17‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/MAB03)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Porsche MAB.03 was used in Porsche's 971 Cayenne and G2 Panamera platforms with front-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised exhaust manifolds for SUV packaging and updated ECU calibration for sedan refinement—and from 2018 the 48V mild-hybrid variants introduced belt-integrated starter-generators, creating minor hardware distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine type is stamped on the left cylinder bank near the exhaust manifold flange (Porsche TIS 971‑ID‑09). The 10th VIN digit indicates model year; Cayenne VINs begin with WP1ZZZ92, Panamera VINs with WP0ZZZ97. MAB.03 engines feature black valve covers with “4.0 V8” casting and twin intercooler pipes routed over the valve covers. Do not confuse with MEB (4.0L twin-turbo hybrid) by visual cues alone—MAB.03 lacks belt-integrated starter-generator and 48V wiring.
The MAB.03's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves and GPF saturation in urban-driven examples. Porsche internal service logs show ~8% of 2016–2018 engines required intake cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links GPF-related fault codes to short-trip usage patterns. Infrequent high-RPM use and low-quality fuel accelerate deposits, making driving pattern and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE MAB-03.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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