NEW YORK – April 3, 2012 – Porsche today announced it will offer the Cayenne Diesel in the United States market for the first time beginning with the 2013 model year. The third-generation 2013 Boxster, the first all-new design since its debut in 1996, is also on display at the New York International Auto Show along with the Cayenne Diesel.

The Cayenne Diesel is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine, delivering 240 horsepower and 406 lb. ft. of torque from as low as 1,750 rpm. The result is 0-60 mph acceleration in just 7.2 seconds and a top track speed of 135 mph. The Cayenne Diesel is rated to tow up to 7,716 lbs., can travel up to an estimated 740 miles on a single tank of fuel and is built to meet Tier 2 BIN5 emissions standards using selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. The newest addition to the Cayenne family will go on sale in September at a base MSRP price of $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

The Cayenne Diesel, the first diesel powered vehicle ever offered by Porsche, was originally introduced to the Diesel-dominated European market in 2009. This same clean diesel technology now comes to the United States, joining the Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Hybrid and Cayenne Turbo models.

Also making its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show is the completely redesigned, third-generation 2013 Porsche Boxster and Boxster S, first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The 2013 Boxster features more powerful, yet more fuel efficient flat six boxer engines and a longer, lower and wider chassis that helps the new roadster weigh approximately 77 lbs. less than its predecessor.

The new Boxster employs a new fully-electric top, able to be retracted or deployed in nine seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. The 2013 Boxster is expected in Porsche dealer showrooms later this summer at a base MSRP price of $49,500 for the Boxster and at a base MSRP price of $60,900 for the Boxster S, not including a $950 destination charge.

The new seventh generation 911 Carrera Cabriolet is also on display at the Porsche stand in New York, after making its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, the new 911 Cabriolet will be on sale at the end of this month and is priced from $93,700 and from $103,800 for Carrera S models not including a $950 destination charge.

About Porsche Cars North America

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga. is the exclusive U.S. importer of Porsche sports cars, the Cayenne SUV and Panamera Gran Turismo. Established in 1984, it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Porsche AG, which is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and employs approximately 220 people who provide parts, service, marketing and training for 196 dealers. They, in turn, work to provide Porsche customers with a best-in-class experience that is in keeping with the brand’s 63-year history and leadership in the advancement of vehicle performance, safety and efficiency. At the core of this success is Porsche’s proud racing heritage that boasts some 30,000 motorsport wins to date.

The Porsche Cayenne sport utility family gets a new member for 2013: the Cayenne Diesel. The newest Cayenne model joins the Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Hybrid and Cayenne Turbo.

Originally introduced to the diesel-dominated European market in 2009, clean diesel technology and its many consumer benefits are now available to Porsche customers in the U.S. market for the first time. The Cayenne Diesel arrives in Porsche dealer showrooms in September and will be priced from $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Cayenne Models for 2013 Cayenne, 300-hp, 3.6 liter V6 with active all-wheel-driveCayenne Diesel, 240-hp, 3.0 liter V6 turbo diesel engine with SCR-technology and permanent all-wheel drive system with self-locking center differentialCayenne S, 400-hp, 4.8 liter V8 with active all-wheel-driveCayenne S Hybrid, 380-hp parallel full hybrid with 333-hp, 3.0 liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine with additional 47-hp provided by two electric motors with permanent all-wheel drive system with self-locking center differentialCayenne Turbo, 500-hp, twin-turbocharged, 4.8 liter V8 with active all-wheel-drive
Model Year 2013 Changes

Interior changes, including a new standard analog clock on the dashboard, new door lock buttons placed near the front door handles
European Factory Delivery program offered for all models

Porsche Cayenne Diesel
The new-for-2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel’s powerful, yet fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine, delivers 240-hp and 406 lb.-ft. of torque, available from as low as 1,750 rpm. The result is strong 0-60 mph acceleration in just 7.2 seconds and a top track speed of 135 mph. That performance is complemented by best in class fuel economy – based on preliminary internal estimates, the Cayenne Diesel is estimated to achieve a rating of 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 combined on its U.S. EPA label. Final figures will be confirmed closer to the start of sales later in 2012.

In addition to power and economy, the Cayenne Diesel can travel up to 740 miles on a single tank of fuel.

The Cayenne Diesel is built to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emission standards, and includes selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. The SCR system is comprised of an AdBlue® tank located in the car’s spare-wheel well, a heating system for this tank and the lines which carry the AdBlue, an injection valve for AdBlue fluid and a selective catalytic reduction converter, which aid in the reduction of NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions.

Highlights of the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine in the Cayenne Diesel include high pressure common rail fuel injection and a variable vane geometry turbocharger, which give the engine improved response to driver inputs and enhanced fuel economy when compared to more conventional diesel engine technologies. In addition, the engine block is constructed from compacted graphite iron (CGI), which has many of the strength properties of a conventional iron block but with a significant reduction in mass, approximately 55 lbs. (25 kilograms).

The Cayenne Diesel is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission, without the Auto Start/Stop function available on other Cayenne variants. As with the Cayenne S Hybrid, the Cayenne Diesel includes Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which features permanent all-wheel drive.

The Cayenne Diesel also comes standard with a system to protect the driver from fueling the vehicle with the incorrect fuel. A mechanical safeguard in the fuel tank filler neck ensures that the locking mechanism can only be opened by the larger diameter diesel fuel pump nozzle and that refueling will only begin at that point.

The Cayenne Diesel is designated with a “Diesel” badge on the left and right front fenders.

Model Lineup

Porsche Cayenne
The 3.6-liter V6 in the Porsche Cayenne’s engine delivers 300-hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, and is matched to either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission and active all-wheel drive. The Cayenne sprints from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds with the manual transmission, and 7.4 seconds with the Tiptronic S. Top track speed is 143 mph. The Porsche Cayenne has a base MSRP price of $48,850, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne Diesel
The Porsche Cayenne Diesel is powered by a modern 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. From a stop, it reaches 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, and achieves top track speed of 135 mph. The Cayenne Diesel features compacted graphite iron engine construction for lower weight, low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, as well as improved engine acoustics and low vibrations for smooth engine running. The Cayenne Diesel produces 240-hp and a maximum torque of 406 lb.-ft. Thus, it is ideal for sporty acceleration, driving long distances, towing heavy trailer loads or everyday city driving. The Porsche Cayenne Diesel has a base MSRP price of $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne S
The Porsche Cayenne S features a 4.8-liter V8 that produces 400-hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque. An 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission and active all-wheel drive are standard, as are larger brakes with silver painted calipers. Zero to 60 mph happens in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 160 mph. The Porsche Cayenne S has a base MSRP price of $65,850, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid
The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid combines a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor powered by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride (NiMh) battery pack for sporty yet fuel-efficient performance. With 380 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque, delivered through an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission to a permanent all-wheel drive system, the Cayenne S Hybrid accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 150 mph. The Cayenne S Hybrid can also operate in electric-only mode at speeds of up to 40 mph, and features Auto Start/Stop technology. The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid has base MSRP price of $69,850, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo
Porsche’s most potent Cayenne, the Cayenne Turbo, is powered by a twin-turbo 4.8-liter V8. With 500-hp and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, the Cayenne Turbo offers the most impressive performance in the Cayenne lineup.
The Cayenne Turbo accelerates from a standing start to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds and achieves a top track speed of 173 mph. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo has a base MSRP price of $108,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Efficiency
Compared to the last generation Cayenne models, the current Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo provide up to a 20 percent increase in fuel economy, thanks in part to their lighter weight and 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmissions. With the exception of the 6-speed, manual transmission Cayenne, an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission is standard across the rest of the Cayenne model line. All Cayenne models all are rated to tow 7,716 pounds.

All 8-speed Tiptronic S equipped Cayenne models, except the Cayenne Diesel, feature Auto Start/Stop technology. Auto Start/Stop saves fuel and reduces emissions by turning off the engine when it is not needed, such as while sitting at a stop light.

Upgrades and Changes
Continuous improvement is a hallmark of Porsche Engineering, and the Cayenne interior benefits from a number of customer-friendly changes for 2013.

Central Locking Button
Changes to the car’s interior include the addition of door locking and unlocking buttons to the door handles on the driver and passenger’s side of the front of the Cayenne.

As one of the most frequently used functions, central locking is now easily accessible to both driver and passenger. Separate buttons for locking and unlocking are now integrated in the door handles. Whether the doors are locked or not can be seen using the integrated feedback LED. The new operating concept allows for much more intuitive operation of the central locking system.

New Analog Clock
A new analog clock mounted on the top of the instrument panel at the center of the vehicle has been added as standard to all Cayenne models.

Highly Sophisticated Audio Systems
The CDR audio system is standard on all Cayenne models. It features a 7-inch color touchscreen display, enabling drivers to navigate and select the main menus and functions. The integrated CD radio, featuring an FM dual tuner, 30 memory presets, dynamic auto-store and speed-sensitive volume control includes a sound system with 10 loudspeakers and a total audio output of 100 watts.

For the ultimate listening experience, drivers can add an optional Bose® Surround Sound system or Burmester® High-End Surround Sound System. Additional options can also be combined with CDR, such as a telephone module, 6-disc DVD changer or rearview camera.

Porsche Communication Management (PCM) System
Powerful, versatile and easy to use the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is the central control system for all information and communications functions. PCM is standard for Cayenne Turbo, and optional for all other Cayenne models.

Key features include a seven-inch high-resolution touchscreen display with optional rotary push-button controls on the steering wheel. The menu layout presents no more than five entries per page, enabling fast and accurate operation. A Help function is displayed at the bottom of the screen for fast guidance.

Color Changes
For 2013, Sand White has been replaced by a new White paint option. Sand Yellow and Amethyst Metallic are no longer available.

New European Delivery Program
For 2013, the Cayenne, like all other Porsche models, can now be ordered for delivery either at their birthplace in Leipzig or at the Porsche factory in Zuffenhausen.

The Porsche European Delivery program is a memorable experience from the moment an owner is presented with the keys to their new Cayenne. From special photo opportunities at either the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart or the “Porsche Diamond,” the main building at Leipzig, to factory tours, owners get the insider’s look at how a Porsche automobile is created. European delivery at Porsche world headquarters in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen includes full access to the world-class Porsche Museum where decades of Porsche sports and race car evolution is on display. Owners that choose to take possession of their new Cayenne in Leipzig will have the opportunity to drive a number of different Porsche models on the test track or test the capabilities of a Cayenne SUV off-road at the Porsche Experience Center.

The Porsche Cayenne sport utility family gets a new member for 2013: the Cayenne Diesel. The newest Cayenne model joins the Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Hybrid and Cayenne Turbo.

Originally introduced to the diesel-dominated European market in 2009, clean diesel technology and its many consumer benefits are now available to Porsche customers in the U.S. market for the first time. The Cayenne Diesel arrives in Porsche dealer showrooms in September and will be priced from $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Cayenne Models for 2013 Cayenne, 300-hp, 3.6 liter V6 with active all-wheel-drive Cayenne Diesel, 240-hp, 3.0 liter V6 turbo diesel engine with SCR-technology and permanent all-wheel drive system with self-locking center differential Cayenne S, 400-hp, 4.8 liter V8 with active all-wheel-drive Cayenne S Hybrid, 380-hp parallel full hybrid with 333-hp, 3.0 liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine with additional 47-hp provided by two electric motors with permanent all-wheel drive system with self-locking center differential Cayenne Turbo, 500-hp, twin-turbocharged, 4.8 liter V8 with active all-wheel-drive
Model Year 2013 Changes

Interior changes, including a new standard analog clock on the dashboard, new door lock buttons placed near the front door handles
European Factory Delivery program offered for all models

Porsche Cayenne Diesel
The new-for-2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel’s powerful, yet fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine, delivers 240-hp and 406 lb.-ft. of torque, available from as low as 1,750 rpm. The result is strong 0-60 mph acceleration in just 7.2 seconds and a top track speed of 135 mph. That performance is complemented by best in class fuel economy – based on preliminary internal estimates, the Cayenne Diesel is estimated to achieve a rating of 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 combined on its U.S. EPA label. Final figures will be confirmed closer to the start of sales later in 2012.

In addition to power and economy, the Cayenne Diesel can travel up to 740 miles on a single tank of fuel.

The Cayenne Diesel is built to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emission standards, and includes selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. The SCR system is comprised of an AdBlue® tank located in the car’s spare-wheel well, a heating system for this tank and the lines which carry the AdBlue, an injection valve for AdBlue fluid and a selective catalytic reduction converter, which aid in the reduction of NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions.

Highlights of the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine in the Cayenne Diesel include high pressure common rail fuel injection and a variable vane geometry turbocharger, which give the engine improved response to driver inputs and enhanced fuel economy when compared to more conventional diesel engine technologies. In addition, the engine block is constructed from compacted graphite iron (CGI), which has many of the strength properties of a conventional iron block but with a significant reduction in mass, approximately 55 lbs. (25 kilograms).

The Cayenne Diesel is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission, without the Auto Start/Stop function available on other Cayenne variants. As with the Cayenne S Hybrid, the Cayenne Diesel includes Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which features permanent all-wheel drive.

The Cayenne Diesel also comes standard with a system to protect the driver from fueling the vehicle with the incorrect fuel. A mechanical safeguard in the fuel tank filler neck ensures that the locking mechanism can only be opened by the larger diameter diesel fuel pump nozzle and that refueling will only begin at that point.

The Cayenne Diesel is designated with a “Diesel” badge on the left and right front fenders.

Model Lineup

Porsche Cayenne
The 3.6-liter V6 in the Porsche Cayenne’s engine delivers 300-hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, and is matched to either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission and active all-wheel drive. The Cayenne sprints from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds with the manual transmission, and 7.4 seconds with the Tiptronic S. Top track speed is 143 mph. The Porsche Cayenne has a base MSRP price of $48,850, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne Diesel
The Porsche Cayenne Diesel is powered by a modern 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. From a stop, it reaches 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, and achieves top track speed of 135 mph. The Cayenne Diesel features compacted graphite iron engine construction for lower weight, low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, as well as improved engine acoustics and low vibrations for smooth engine running. The Cayenne Diesel produces 240-hp and a maximum torque of 406 lb.-ft. Thus, it is ideal for sporty acceleration, driving long distances, towing heavy trailer loads or everyday city driving. The Porsche Cayenne Diesel has a base MSRP price of $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne S
The Porsche Cayenne S features a 4.8-liter V8 that produces 400-hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque. An 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission and active all-wheel drive are standard, as are larger brakes with silver painted calipers. Zero to 60 mph happens in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 160 mph. The Porsche Cayenne S has a base MSRP price of $65,850, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid
The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid combines a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor powered by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride (NiMh) battery pack for sporty yet fuel-efficient performance. With 380 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque, delivered through an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission to a permanent all-wheel drive system, the Cayenne S Hybrid accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 150 mph. The Cayenne S Hybrid can also operate in electric-only mode at speeds of up to 40 mph, and features Auto Start/Stop technology. The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid has base MSRP price of $69,850, not including a $975 destination charge.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo
Porsche’s most potent Cayenne, the Cayenne Turbo, is powered by a twin-turbo 4.8-liter V8. With 500-hp and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, the Cayenne Turbo offers the most impressive performance in the Cayenne lineup.
The Cayenne Turbo accelerates from a standing start to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds and achieves a top track speed of 173 mph. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo has a base MSRP price of $108,750, not including a $975 destination charge.

Efficiency
Compared to the last generation Cayenne models, the current Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo provide up to a 20 percent increase in fuel economy, thanks in part to their lighter weight and 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmissions. With the exception of the 6-speed, manual transmission Cayenne, an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission is standard across the rest of the Cayenne model line. All Cayenne models all are rated to tow 7,716 pounds.

All 8-speed Tiptronic S equipped Cayenne models, except the Cayenne Diesel, feature Auto Start/Stop technology. Auto Start/Stop saves fuel and reduces emissions by turning off the engine when it is not needed, such as while sitting at a stop light.

Upgrades and Changes
Continuous improvement is a hallmark of Porsche Engineering, and the Cayenne interior benefits from a number of customer-friendly changes for 2013.

Central Locking Button
Changes to the car’s interior include the addition of door locking and unlocking buttons to the door handles on the driver and passenger’s side of the front of the Cayenne.

As one of the most frequently used functions, central locking is now easily accessible to both driver and passenger. Separate buttons for locking and unlocking are now integrated in the door handles. Whether the doors are locked or not can be seen using the integrated feedback LED. The new operating concept allows for much more intuitive operation of the central locking system.

New Analog Clock
A new analog clock mounted on the top of the instrument panel at the center of the vehicle has been added as standard to all Cayenne models.

Highly Sophisticated Audio Systems
The CDR audio system is standard on all Cayenne models. It features a 7-inch color touchscreen display, enabling drivers to navigate and select the main menus and functions. The integrated CD radio, featuring an FM dual tuner, 30 memory presets, dynamic auto-store and speed-sensitive volume control includes a sound system with 10 loudspeakers and a total audio output of 100 watts.

For the ultimate listening experience, drivers can add an optional Bose® Surround Sound system or Burmester® High-End Surround Sound System. Additional options can also be combined with CDR, such as a telephone module, 6-disc DVD changer or rearview camera.

Porsche Communication Management (PCM) System
Powerful, versatile and easy to use the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is the central control system for all information and communications functions. PCM is standard for Cayenne Turbo, and optional for all other Cayenne models.

Key features include a seven-inch high-resolution touchscreen display with optional rotary push-button controls on the steering wheel. The menu layout presents no more than five entries per page, enabling fast and accurate operation. A Help function is displayed at the bottom of the screen for fast guidance.

Color Changes
For 2013, Sand White has been replaced by a new White paint option. Sand Yellow and Amethyst Metallic are no longer available.

New European Delivery Program
For 2013, the Cayenne, like all other Porsche models, can now be ordered for delivery either at their birthplace in Leipzig or at the Porsche factory in Zuffenhausen.

The Porsche European Delivery program is a memorable experience from the moment an owner is presented with the keys to their new Cayenne. From special photo opportunities at either the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart or the “Porsche Diamond,” the main building at Leipzig, to factory tours, owners get the insider’s look at how a Porsche automobile is created. European delivery at Porsche world headquarters in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen includes full access to the world-class Porsche Museum where decades of Porsche sports and race car evolution is on display. Owners that choose to take possession of their new Cayenne in Leipzig will have the opportunity to drive a number of different Porsche models on the test track or test the capabilities of a Cayenne SUV off-road at the Porsche Experience Center.

Few rivalries are as heated as that between the Nissan GT-R and the Porsche 911. And with both models having recently been updated, Evo magazine has taken the updated GT-R and the new 911 Carrera S to the Bedford Autodrome for a little head-on-head action. And who better to put in front of the camera and behind the wheel than Tiff Needell, the longtime Fifth Gear co-host who’s now doing a series of video tests for the magazine British enthusiasts love best.

Now if you’re thinking that the GT-R really ought to be compared to the 911 Turbo and not the naturally aspirated 911 Carrera S, well, you’re probably right. Particularly since Nissan hiked the price on its latest performance flagship to nearly $100,000. But Porsche hasn’t released the turbocharged version of its latest 911, so the Carrera S will have to do. Skip past the break to see how they compare, as well as which one is Tiff’s favorite.

Vehicle Make / Model: PORSCHE / 911 CARRERA S
Model Year: 2012
Manufacturer: PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Mfr’s Report Date: MAR 20, 2012

Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Potential Number of Units Affected: 1,232

Summary:
PORSCHE IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 911 CARRERA S VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 26, 2011, THROUGH JANUARY 24, 2012. INTERFERENCE BETWEEN A COOLANT LINE AND A FUEL LINE MAY CAUSE THE FUEL LINE TO BECOME DISCONNECTED AT THE QUICK CONNECTOR.

Consequence:
IF THE FUEL LINE BECOMES DISCONNECTED, A FUEL LEAK MAY OCCUR. A FUEL LEAK COULD LEAD TO THE ENGINE MISFIRING OR STALLING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. A FUEL LEAK IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A FIRE.

Remedy:
PORSCHE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL LINE WITH A NEW FUEL LINE, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN APRIL 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PORSCHE AT 1-800-767-7243.

Notes:
PORSCHE’S SAFETY RECALL NUMBER IS AC02. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Automotive News reports Porsche is hard at work on a plug-in hybrid version of its Panamera. According to unnamed sources, the vehicle is likely to begin production in 2014 and will be destined for the U.S. market. The move is part of a larger plug-in offensive from Volkswagen. VW owns 49.9 percent of Porsche and plans to debut electrified versions of its Audi Q7 and A3 as well as the European Passat. Those vehicles will reportedly trickle to market between 2014 and 2015. An all-electric Golf is also due in 2013.

Volkswagen has already made it clear the company believes the future of green driving lies in diesels and plug-in hybrids, saying the latter combines the best elements of electric propulsion and internal combustion without the compromises of a hybrid. So, why introduce plug-ins in the automaker’s luxury brands? Volkswagen claims high-end buyers are more likely to take long trips, and thus need the range-extending capability of an internal combustion engine as well. Us? We think it’s easier for well-heeled buyers to absorb the technology’s cost premium in their already higher MSRPs.

Few rivalries are as heated as that between the Nissan GT-R and the Porsche 911. And with both models having recently been updated, Evo magazine has taken the updated GT-R and the new 911 Carrera S to the Bedford Autodrome for a little head-on-head action. And who better to put in front of the camera and behind the wheel than Tiff Needell, the longtime Fifth Gear co-host who’s now doing a series of video tests for the magazine British enthusiasts love best.

Now if you’re thinking that the GT-R really ought to be compared to the 911 Turbo and not the naturally aspirated 911 Carrera S, well, you’re probably right. Particularly since Nissan hiked the price on its latest performance flagship to nearly $100,000. But Porsche hasn’t released the turbocharged version of its latest 911, so the Carrera S will have to do. Skip past the break to see how they compare, as well as which one is Tiff’s favorite.

We can’t quite explain why we’re so drawn pre-production test mules. Maybe we just like the thought of seeing a vehicle as it grows from concept to reality or being able to take a peak into the engineering behind a car that will hit production soon. Either way, videos like the one after the jump flip all the right switches for us. Like Wired, EVO recently got the chance to ride along in an early version of the 2013 Porsche 918 Spyder. With two electric motors and kicking V8, the car is good for a dizzying 770 horsepower combined.

EVO gives us our closest look yet at the vehicle’s driveline, including the 80-kW electric motor in the front and the 90-kW motor in the rear. Interestingly, as Evo points out, the 918 can be powered purely on the front-mounted electric motor that drives the front wheels. That’s right, this is the first production front-wheel drive Porsche, even if it’s only likely to operate as such a sliver of the time. Even with all the technological whizzbangery on board, the 918 still sounds like a true Porsche when the 570 horsepower V8 barks to life. Porsche has worked to keep as much of the vehicle’s weight below the center line as possible, and as a result, the engineers had to resort to some cleverness when it comes to exhaust routing and the like. Hit the jump to see what we mean.

Stuttgart. Porsche Classic will be exhibiting from 21 – 25 March 2012 at the biggest Classic trade fair in the world in Essen, this time showcasing its comprehensive service offering on a stand with more than twice the area compared with last year. A particular highlight is the legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

To mark the occasion, Porsche is presenting two racing versions of the 911 Carrera RS from the Porsche Museum at the new location in Hall 7.0. The 1973 vintage 911 Carrera RSR delivers 330 hp. The ultimate RS variant dating from 1974, the 911 Carrera RSR Turbo with its two-metre wide rear end, even manages a sensational 500 hp, which it achieves with a mere 2.1 litre displacement. The “40 years of the 911 Carrera RS” anniversary is rounded off by a 911 Carrera RS 2.7, that has been restored by the Porsche Classic workshop specialists. Also on show is an early Porsche 911, which is currently being restored for a customer at Porsche Classic.

It goes without saying that the Porsche Classic experts will once again be on hand to provide advice and practical assistance to visitors regarding the preservation and maintenance of their historic vehicles and will provide information on the availability of Porsche Classic original spare parts. Especially noteworthy, for example, is the much coveted “orange” Porsche bonnet badge of the 911 models from 1965 to 1973, no longer available since 1974. 2012 will see it being rereleased again. Complete wings, classic Fuchs wheels and many other parts besides – presented in a large high-bay storage system – demonstrate that Porsche Classic takes a close interest in preserving these sports car treasures. The specialists’ repertoire comprises the repair, maintenance and restoration of classic Porsche road vehicles as well as the provision of original spare parts.

Together with a Porsche museum information stand, Porsche Exclusive & Tequipment will also be represented on the spacious 600 plus square metre stand. A custom- equipped 911 Carrera of the current 991 model series is being used to showcase the comprehensive personalisation options. Porsche Design Driver’s Selection rounds off the varied offering on the Porsche stand with a wide selection of Porsche accessories.

GO

Note: Images of the new 911 Carrera RS 2.7 can be obtained by accredited journalists from the Porsche press database at the Internet address: http://presse.porsche.de/

“This is most definitely not a Prius.” So says ex-Autoblog staffer Damon Lavrinc in a story written for Wired. The non-Prius-esque vehicle to which he’s referring? The Porsche 918.

We know all about the concept and how it stole the show at the at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. We know that interest in the plug-in hybrid supercar was so strong that Porsche pulled out all the stops to get the vehicle into its production plans as soon as possible. We know it will cost $845,000 and be able to hit 60 miles per hour in a scant 3.1 seconds. What we hadn’t known until now, though, is how far along into its development Porsche’s team of engineers had gotten.

It seems there are currently three 918 development mules in existence, and Lavrinc got to ride shotgun at the Nardo Test Track in one of them. Though it was limited to half its available power – full power being a generous 770 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque with an overboost offering up to 700 lb-ft for short periods – it was still an exciting ride, and it’s telling that Porsche was confident enough in its Franken-mule to allow anyone to go on record this far ahead of September 18, 2013, the car’s official launch date.

We suggest you head on over to Wired to peruse the full article, and feel free to mosey on back to let us know what you think of the 918′s potential.