Is it possible, is Porsche finallyd eveloping a performance hybrid?  It looks like the answer is yes and they are adding the hybrid moniker to their Cayenne sport SUV.  Although nothing surprises me about Porsche right now, as they step out of their core copetency, since even later this year they will release their first 4-door sedan, with the Panamera. yuck.

One of the SunTimes.com reporter got a first hand experience with the new Porsche/VW hybrid technology.

The Porsche-VW hybrid system is unlike any on the market, but it’s closest to Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist. Porsche’s system is a parallel full-hybrid system. IMA is a parallel system, but it is considered a “power-assist” system, not a full system, because the electric motor can only aid the engine, not propel the vehicle by itself (except in some light cruising conditions). Honda’s is a parallel system because the engine has a mechanical link to the wheels.

Initial reactions to the Porsche hybrid are much like my own, wondering how they can combine their performance name with a green theme.  Obviously Porsche is committed, releasing 2 test mules already to the media to scrutinze, but under limited conditions.  For example, no one was allowed to juice the Cayenne hybrid up and down some windy roads, so actual performance testing has been held to a minimum.  Sounds like Porsche is more excited about doing up to 30 miles per hour on electric alone, despite the 300lb weight increase.

Cayenne Hybrid

Looks like AutoCar.co.uk has spied some pictures of the next generation Porsche SUV, the Cayenne.  I'm not sure if this would be the 2010 Porsche Cayenne or even possibly the 2011 Cayenne, but it looks sharp no matter what.

Maybe I need to move to the UK so I can finally get some first hand photo's of these test cars on road and track.  Check out the spy pics of the new generation Porsche Cayenne below.