PA-32 pilot reported an engine malfunction during cruise. The pilot requested and was provided priority handling to a suitable airport where a safe landing was completed.

Narrative

While flying on an IFR flight plan from ZZZ to ZZZ1 I had an abrupt change in RPM and noticed my #5 cylinder EGT was very high and CHT had dropped to low 200's (from mid 300's). The engine sounded off and was not as smooth. Given the uncertainty of what I was dealing with and before it became a bigger problem; I asked Center if I could divert to ZZZ2 as it was just off my right wing. They authorized a right turn and decent to 3100 and stated I could land any runway but Runway XX was preferred. The center controller was outstanding and even reminded me not to forget my GUMPS. He handed me off to tower. I was likely already in the Delta by the time I switched over to tower and he cleared me to land [Runway] XX. I do not think this led to any conflict or alteration in traffic flow at ZZZ2; but the moment was quite hectic for me as I had passengers and was concerned with getting on the ground before we fully lost power. The tower controller gave me taxi instructions to on field maintenance.