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Porsche's new model spree

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The new Cayenne Turbo S. All pictures copyright Automedia
The new Cayenne Turbo S. All pictures copyright Automedia
Cayenne

In response to sagging Cayenne sales, Porsche has developed a new version of the racy SUV.

The base model comes with a 3.2-litre V6 engine that delivers 181kW - quite ordinary by Porsche standards.

But the Cayenne S version features a 250kW, 4.5 litre V8, which launches this over-3000kg vehicle from 0-100km/h in a brisk 6.8 seconds.

Want more? The Turbo model with a twin-turbocharged V8 puts out 331kW. It does the 100km/h sprint in just 5.2 seconds, but costs over R200 000 more than the Cayenne S.

For the extremists, there is a turbo-power kit available, which boosts the turbocharged V8 engine's output to a whopping 367kW, and adds upgraded brakes and suspension components to handle the extra power adequately.

911 Targa


The new Porsche 911 Targa

The latest 2-door Porsche 911 Targa is available only in coupé form.

The new Targa comes with a 3.6 litre 24-valve DOHC engine, with a 6-speed transmission.

The characteristic Targa roof retains its innovative ability to to be adjusted by the driver to any position.

Standard features include air conditioning with climate control, Porsche audio system, cargo area light, computer system, anti-theft protection devices, cruise control, illuminated entry system, automatic locks and windows, front reading lights, rear fog lights, leather seat upholstery with additional vinyl, and leather covered steering wheel.

Some of the Targa's closest competitors include the Acura NSX, the Jaguar XK Series, and the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class.

911 GT3


The new Porsche 911 GT3

Porsche has updated its 911 GT3 with a re-styled 2006 version, also only available as a coupé.

It is powered by a 3.6 litre turbo-charged engine, coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive as standard.

Safety features have been enhanced, contributing to the 911 GT3's now heightened competitiveness in its class, which includes the likes of the Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, the Ferrari 456M, and the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class.

Compact SUV


Porsche's compact SUV offering

Strong rumours have been doing the rounds that Porsche is getting ready to produce a small SUV - about 20cm shorter than the Cayenne - to compete with the BMW X3 and upcoming Mercedes MLK/MLS.

Speculation is that Volkswagen will play a part in the building process.

Panamera


Panamera

Porsche is looking to expand its range with the introduction of the distinctive Panamera, which is likely to use exclusively V8 power.

Although until now the car has been punted as a four-door sedan, indications are that a five-door version to rival Mercedes-Benz's new R-Class may appear.

Engine options are expected to match those of the Cayenne, with both normally-aspirated and turbocharged engines producing at least 250kW and 331kW respectively.

911 Turbo


New 911 Turbo

Porsche's new 911 Turbo, to be introduced this year, features Variable urbine Geometry. This allows the angle of the compressor's turbine blades to continually adjust.

However, the higher exhaust gas temperatures created by petrol engines using this technology called for the creation of new heat-resistant materials.

Porsche and Borg Warner Turbo Systems managed to overcome the heat issue and developed a VTG turbo system that will be incorporated into the new 911 Turbo.

The VTG turbo will allow Porsche's flat-six to mimic a twin-turbo setup with a much broader torque curve and more flexible powerband than a standard single turbo could provide on its own.

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