Porsche, via its local distributor Sime Darby Auto Performance, recently launched the Cayenne S Hybrid sport utility vehicle for the Malaysian market. Sime Darby Auto Performance CEO Arnt Bayer said that in line with the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, the Cayenne S Hybrid will deliver improved performance while using less fuel and producing fewer emissions.

"The Cayenne S Hybrid features a highly sophisticated parallel full hybrid drive system with a combined power output of 380 horsepower from the supercharged V6 combustion engine and an electric motor," he said at a media preview of the model as well as the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car.

"Through continuous interaction between the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 and electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid focuses on maximum efficiency.

"Depending on driving conditions, either drive unit can operate independently or together. The 47-horsepower (34 kW) electric motor is the ideal partner for the 333-horsepower engine, which produces high torque at low engine speeds."

Bayer said the Cayenne S Hybrid's performance is on par with a V8-powered Cayenne S, and its two drive units are connected by a decoupling clutch.

"A hybrid controller constantly coordinates their complex interaction, and intelligent management of the clutch makes the transition between various driving modes seamless.

"Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to 60kph. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides an extra 'boost' to the gasoline engine. What makes the model unique is its ability to cruise at high speeds on electric power alone."

He added that the new Cayenne sheds weight and gains space, and yet looks more sleek and compact.

Inside, the luxurious interior features a high centre console that rises up at an incline to meet the dashboard centre stack with high-quality fittings and a touch-screen infotainment interface.

The Cayenne S Hybrid with standard specification is priced at RM720,000 (US$ 231,500).

Sime Darby Auto Performance is also making available other new generation Cayenne models such as the basic Cayenne (RM550,000), Cayenne Diesel (RM560,000), Cayenne S (RM680,000) and the Cayenne Turbo (RM940,000).

The hybrid technology will also be featured in the future Panamera S Hybrid due to enter the Malaysian market in the third quarter of next year.