Spy Shots: 2011 Porsche Cayenne SUV

Due to be on sale in late 2010 as a 2011 model, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne SUV has been spotted on several occasions, revealing some details of the vehicle.

Like the current model, the next Cayenne will still share a common platform with the next-generation Volkswagen Touareg and Audi Q7, and will be built in Volkswagen Group’s Bratislava plant in Slovakia. Unfinished Cayennes will then be transported to Porsche’s Leipzig plant for final assembly.

Plans are to make it smaller and more compact than the current model. The wheelbase will be shortened by almost 40 mm, while the height will be reduced by about 20 mm. Other details include a taller waistline and LED daytime running lights.

Inside, modifications include a redesigned center console with air vents positioned to the sides of the navigation screen instead of at the top, as well as much fewer buttons than the current model. The design also shows a similarity to the interior of the Panamera.

Under the hood, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne gets a range of powertrains. Both V-6 and V-8 petrol engines will be on offer, including a turbodiesel option, as well as a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain to be shared with the Panamera sedan. All engines will include Porsche’s new direct-injection technology, and some could even be matched to the automaker’s new dual-clutch gearbox.

It will reach a top speed of 180 mph and 0-60 mph times of less than five seconds for top end models. Meanwhile, taking the fuel economy into account, the new model will be lighter and more fuel efficient.