Daily Auto News
The idea of a Porsche SUV may never sit well with some enthusiasts, but they should at least be satisfied knowing that the second generation of the thing will be both sleeker and more powerful than the first. Set to debut next week at the Geneva Auto Show next week, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne will be greener, too, as Porsche plans to offer a version of the big sport ‘ute as the brand’s first hybrid.
reports, “Designers reworked the Cayenne’s façade to provide a more contemporary form. If you notice hints of Panamera, it’s no mistake. The sculpted hood, headlights, and grille mimic Porsche’s other contentious model.” That same sculpted bodywork, however, gives the next Cayenne a sportier look than this year’s model. The announcement of a hybrid edition, however, is the big news. “That hybrid will be a Cayenne S model that packs a 333-hp, supercharged V-6 engine teamed to a 47-hp electric motor,” according to . The two can power the Cayenne jointly or separately, and unlike other hybrids on the market, the hybrid Cayenne S can run on electric power at highway cruising speeds of up to 97 mph.” And, being a Porsche, it should get to those speeds fairly quickly. “The company says the performance of the hybrid Cayenne S is on par with the new, gasoline-powered Cayenne S.” Gasoline versions won’t lack power, however. reports, “The entry-level Cayenne gets a 300-hp 3.6-liter V6, while the Cayenne S has a 400-hp 4.8-liter V8 and the Cayenne Turbo gets a 500-hp 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8.” All versions will carry the same eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, a new all-wheel-drive system, and the company claims, sharper handling, thanks to a curb weight 400 pounds lighter than the outgoing model. What may not have been retained is the off-road prowess of the old Cayenne. No one in the media has driven the 2011 Cayenne yet, so we can’t be sure. But looking at the specs, Kicking Tires comments, “the main thing to note about the new Cayenne is its new stance and more on-road manners compared with the previous generation’s off-road bias.” “The modern design continues inside,” Motor Trend says. “With more room to work with, engineers implemented a high center console between the two front passengers. Like the Panamera, it bears an elongated form, with a litany of control buttons set below and on either side of the Tiptronic lever.” A touchscreen controls all cabin electronics and climate functions. “The whole is attractive, in true Porsche style.” Gasoline-powered editions should reach U.S. showrooms in July, with the hybrid to follow in the fall. Pricing details have not been announced. If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year’s best cars as well as this month’s best car deals. 
