Porsche unveils 918 hypercar-inspired Cayenne E-Hybrid

Porsche has confirmed its prowess in producing practical SUVs with supercar capabilities, with the unveiling of the new Cayenne E-Hybrid.

The new crossover is the first electrified version of the recently released third-generation Cayenne and is only the second model in the carmaker’s current range to be powered by a hybrid powertrain, following last year’s Panamera E-Hybrid.

The Cayenne E-Hybrid’s bonnet conceals a 335bhp 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine that is coupled to a 132bhp electric motor, says Evo. The two power units produce a total power output of 455bhp - 22bhp more than the sporty Cayenne S.

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And a 14.1kWh battery pack connected to the electric motor allows the SUV to run on electrical energy alone for up to 27 miles, the magazine says.

The powerful hybrid powertrain appears to be derived from the now-discontinued Porsche 918 Spyder, the Daily Express says. Like that hypercar, the new hybrid system gives drivers “maximum torque” as soon as they step on the accelerator; something that cannot be achieved with a non-electrified engine.

Coupled with the hybrid system is a new eight-speed automatic gearbox that offers shorter shift times than the previous generation Cayenne, says Auto Express.

This helps the SUV achieve 0-62mph in five seconds flat, which according to the magazine, is “marginally faster” than the non-hybrid Cayenne S.

Although performance variants of cars are often less economical than regular models, Car magazine says that isn’t the case with the Cayenne E-hybrid. The new vehicle boasts an average fuel economy figure of 69.2mpg under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test.

Ordering for the Cayenne E-Hybrid is now open, with prices starting at £67,128.