Next-generation Porsche Cayenne led by intelligent, powerful hybrid

All-new SUV debuts in Geneva with more room, technology and performance alongside significantly reduced weight and fuel consumption

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 25 /CNW/ - Led by a technologically-advanced full hybrid model, the all-new, next-generation Porsche Cayenne sport-utility will debut at the Geneva motor show in early March. In line with the Porsche Intelligent Performance development strategy, the entire range, from the entry-level V6 to the 500-horsepower Cayenne Turbo, delivers improved performance while using less fuel and producing fewer emissions than ever before.

The highlight of the range is the new Cayenne S Hybrid, which features a highly-sophisticated parallel full hybrid drive system. With a combined power output of 380 bhp from the supercharged V6 combustion engine mated to an electric motor, and fuel consumption on the New European Driving Cycle of just 8.2 L/100 km, the Cayenne S Hybrid combines the performance of an eight-cylinder with the economy of a six.

In the intelligent interaction of the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 and electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid focuses on maximum efficiency. Depending on driving conditions, either drive unit can operate independently or together. The 47-bhp (34-kW) electric motor is the ideal partner for the 333-bhp engine, which produces high torque at low engine speeds. With peak torque at 427 lb-ft at just 1,000 rpm, the Cayenne S Hybrid's performance is on par with a V8-powered Cayenne S.

The hybrid's two drive units are connected by a decoupling clutch. A hybrid controller controls their complex interaction and intelligent management of the clutch makes the transition among various driving modes seamless. Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise to 60 km/h. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides a power boost to the gasoline engine.

What makes the Cayenne S Hybrid unique is its ability to cruise at high speeds on electric power alone. The gasoline engine can be completely switched off and disengaged from the drivetrain at speeds of up to 156 km/h. In this so-called sailing - or cruising - mode, the drag forces exerted by the combustion engine and their braking effect are eliminated in the interest of lower resistance and fuel consumption.

All new-generation Cayennes set high standards for efficiency and performance. Compared with the former models, fuel consumption is down by up to 23 per cent and CO2 emissions are significantly reduced, despite increased performance on all models.

A new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission with a wide range of gear ratios and the automatic start-stop function (first introduced on the Panamera) contributes to these improvements. So does efficient thermal management of the engine and transmission cooling circuits, on-board electrical network recuperation, variable deceleration fuel cut-off and the Cayenne's intelligent lightweight construction.

Thanks to a special combination of materials as well as changes in the overall vehicle concept, such as a new all-wheel drive system, weight has been significantly reduced on all models as well. Despite an even higher standard of safety engineering, the Cayenne S is 180 kg lighter, which not only improves fuel consumption and lowers emissions, but also boosts performance, agility, and handling.

A completely new design brings the new Cayenne even more in line with the entire Porsche lineup. Its sporting character is evident from all angles and its Porsche shape and design characteristics are clearer than ever before.

The new Cayenne is 48 mm longer than its predecessor, while an extra 40 mm in wheelbase ensures extra space and greater versatility. But despite larger exterior dimensions, the elegant lines of the new Cayenne make it look far more compact and dynamic.

Inside, the luxurious interior is distinguished by its high-quality fittings, touch-screen infotainment interface and a centre console which, like the Panamera, rises up to meet the dashboard. Porsche's traditional set of five round instruments includes a high-resolution circular TFT screen to the right of the tachometer. It can be used to change radio stations or vehicle settings, or access the navigation system and view the map. Rear-seat comfort is much improved as well. The bench slides fore-and-aft by 160 mm, while the backrest can be adjusted to three different angles.

The entry-level Cayenne features a 3.6-litre V6 that produces 300 bhp, 10 more than the previous model. In conjunction with the eight-speed Tiptronic S, fuel consumption has been reduced by 20 per cent on the New European Driving Cycle.

Fuel consumption is also down significantly on the high-torque Cayenne S. Its 4.8-litre V8 produces 15 bhp more than the previous model. When combined with the overall weight savings, performance is markedly increased, yet consumption is down by 23 per cent.

The Cayenne Turbo, with its 500-bhp, 4.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8, also consumes 23 per cent less fuel than its predecessor despite its improved performance and acceleration.

Together with the Cayenne S Hybrid, three of the new Cayenne models produce less than 200 grams of CO2 per kilometre. At 193 g/km, the Cayenne S Hybrid is not only the cleanest Cayenne model, but also the cleanest vehicle in Porsche's entire portfolio.

The new Porsche Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo go on sale in Canada in July. Canadian Porsche Centres will offer the Cayenne and Cayenne S Hybrid in the fall.

Note: Photos of the new Cayenne are available to accredited journalists in the Porsche Press Database at http://presse.porsche.de. Footage material is available to registered users at http://www.thenewsmarket.com/porsche.

/NOTE TO PHOTO EDITORS: A photo accompanying this release is available at http://photos.newswire.ca. Images are free to accredited members of the media/

For further information: Laurance Yap, [phone], [email protected]