At the start of the year it is time to look ahead to the new cars coming in the course of the next twelve months. Porsche has announced its plans for 2010.
One of the new models is Porsche's first hybrid since the front-wheel drive, petrol-electric Lhoner Porsche of 1900. The new hybrid is a version of the four-wheel drive Cayenne. With a V6 petrol engine and 51bhp electric motor it promises to combine the performance of the
V8 petrol model with the economy of
the diesel.
Also on the way is a V6-powered Panamera. Chances are that it will use the 3.6-litre V6 fitted to the six-cylinder Cayenne, which means about 290bhp. Less power will add a couple of seconds to the V8's 0-62 time but it will be interesting to see how the Panamera handles with a smaller, lighter engine up front. Expect the V6 to be priced around £60,000 - if it follows the same pricing relationship as six- and eight-cylinder Cayennes.
The UK can also look forward to the Boxster Spyder and 911 GT3 RS due to arrive in the Spring. Customers who ordered the
911 Sport Classic will also receive their cars this year.
John Lambert - 7 Jan 2010