With the Cayenne making up half of Porsche sales in the Chicago area, it seems fitting that the Chicago show should be the venue for the North American debut of the all-new Cayenne GTS.

Designed to have the best on-road driving dynamics of any SUV on the market, the Cayenne GTS is 20mm lower than the standard Cayenne, an effect which is even more pronounced by its standard 21-inch alloy wheels. The GTS also features Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) combined with an air suspension system. Cayenne GTS can also be equipped with the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which uses active anti-roll bars to virtually eliminate body lean in turns.

To match the improved handling is an enhanced version of the 4.8-liter V8 engine. With 405 horsepower (20 more than the Cayenne S), the GTS can reach 60 mph in 5.7 seconds — quite a feat for a big, heavy SUV. The quick acceleration can be partially attributed to the new 6-speed manual transmission, which is available for the first time, teamed with a V8-powered Cayenne.

Not only is the Cayenne GTS set up as the ultimate performance SUV, it also looks the part. The front of the GTS uses the same styling as the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo. Black monochrome finish on door handles and window trim; 10-spoke, 21-inch diameter Cayenne Sport wheels; body-color side skirts; red brake calipers; a rear spoiler and dual chrome twin tailpipes complete the picture.

Inside, both front and rear passengers get new sport seats with side bolsters and alcantara leather center inserts. Front-seat occupants also get 12-way adjustable power seats.

The new Cayenne GTS is on sale now with a base price of $69,300.