Porsche Cayenne

We've spied the new Porsche Cayenne - and the controversial SUV is beginning to tow the green line!

The second generation of Porsche’s best-selling fuel-guzzler will be more environmentally friendly than ever, offering improved fuel economy and lower emissions.

The car spotted here out testing might be disguised, but it’s clear to see the new version will look very similar to the current car, apart from a more steeply angled front screen and a wider looking track. Sources also say the new SUV will be a lot more road-focused.

Initially the Cayenne was due to be launched next March, but that date has been pushed back a year in order to give next year’s facelifted Boxster the limelight.

It appears Porsche is finally acknowledging rising fuel costs and falling demand for fuel-hungry cars by adding a hybrid and a diesel to the lineup, with the diesel unit most likely a variation of Audi’s 3.0-litre V6 TDI – as found in the Cayenne’s Q7 cousin. The derv unit will have around 240bhp and 400lb ft of torque. The petrol-electric hybrid is expected to be a V8 and will be shared with the Panamera saloon, due next year.

Porsche is hoping a diesel Cayenne will help push sales up to around 15,000 units a year, whilst also improving its reputation in general - the German maker is the most polluting mainstream brand, with an average CO2 output of 275.6g/km across its range, though cleaning up the Cayenne should reduce this value significantly.