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2013 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid Preview

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Marie-Andrée Ayotte
Summary
The Porsche lineup has included an SUV for over 10 years now. The environmentally-friendly Porsche Cayenne S hybrid was introduced in 2011. A 333 hp VW-Audi engine and 47 hp synchronous electric motor team up to corral 380 horses in this 'green' Porsche SUV.

The electric motor is powered by a nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) battery. It will be interesting to see if Porsche jumps on the lithium-ion battery bandwagon.

Pros
Latest technology, great fuel economy.

Cons
Expensive options, high maintenance costs

Photo: Porsche

Price
The Porsche Cayenne S hybrid starts at $80,400. By adding options such as the 21-inch alloy wheels for $6,980 and Superior Plus package for $13,640, it’s easy to conclude that the final tab will grow by leaps and bounds. Have you ever seen a Carmin Red Cayenne? Not surprising, as this color by itself will add an extra $3,590.

Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is rated at 10.4 L/100 km city and 8.4 L/100 km highway. The electric motor operates in tandem with the combustion engine during acceleration and deceleration or to offer additional power while cruising at highway speeds. While the battery has a limited autonomy of only three kilometres, it is continually recharged whenever the brakes are applied.

New and Improved
Completely redesigned in 2011, no further upgrades have been applied

Exterior Styling
The 2011 makeover made the Porsche Cayenne look less toy-like. The front grille and headlights are smoothly integrated into the front end, and the shorter windows give it a hunkered-down, muscular demeanor. The overall effect makes for a tougher, sportier SUV.

Photo: Porsche

Cargo Capacity

Trunk-only volume is a decent 580 litres, which expands to 1,690 litres with lowered seats. Towing capacity is rated at 3,500 kg.

Drivetrain

A supercharged 3.0 litre V6 produces 333 hp. The synchronous electric motor adds another 47, for a total of 380.

Hybrid System: Parallel

Safety
Anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, electronic stabilization program. Lateral collision test score: 5/5
Frontal collision test score: 5/5
Airbags: 8

Comparable Models
Green: Volkswagen Touareg turbodiesel
Other: Audi Q7, BMW X5, Volvo XC90, Infiniti FX


References :
fr.autoblog.com
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013

Le Guide de l'auto 2013
 (www.guideautoweb.com)




Marie-Andrée Ayotte
Marie-Andrée Ayotte
Automotive expert
None