Porsche has launched the latest generation of its successful SUV model line - Cayenne and Cayenne S - that offers even more sports car performance and practicality to its customers, in Bahrain.

Arrival of the brand’s flagship SUV was celebrated at a special event held by Porsche Centre Bahrain, Behbehbani Brothers at The Ritz Carlton Hotel, where the Cayenne and Cayenne S were showcased before a large gathering.

A completely new development brings the Cayenne closer to its racetrack roots and offers greater versatility and more performance than ever before, said the company in a statement.

Powerful turbocharged engines, enhanced chassis systems, a range of off-road modes and a sharper design underpin the model’s credentials as a true sports car in its segment. Additional enhancements to the latest generation also include intelligent assistance systems and more connectivity features aimed at offering improved driver and passenger comfort, it added.

Colin Sattar, the brand manager of Porsche Centre Bahrain, said: "Since its initial launch, the Cayenne has been one of the most popular models in Bahrain, and I have no doubt that the third generation, which offers even more sports car performance and practicality, will continue this success story. For me, the new Cayenne’s versatility is truly unique."

"It is at home on any road, but it is equally ready to explore new terrain. It enjoys a short sprint as much as a long road trip, and the commute to work as much as a lap on the track. It is capable of producing a superb drive experience virtually anywhere, and that is really what sets the Cayenne apart from any other SUV. We’re very excited to be welcoming it to Bahrain today," he added.

A bold new design stays true to the unmistakable identity of the Cayenne but delivers a more streamlined, athletic impression to complement an increased length and lower height.

The pronounced bonnet, redesigned headlight contour and trademark large air intakes underline the Cayenne’s improved driving dynamics from the front. Narrower side windows, a redesigned rear wing, wide rear end with integrated light strip and wider alloy wheels further enhance and emphasise its sports car genes, noted Sattar.

The new Cayenne offers a spacious cabin, with several comfort and convenience features throughout. The luggage compartment has been increased by 100 litres, meanwhile the Porsche Advanced Cockpit concept brings the vehicle and the occupants closer through increased connectivity and intuitive controls.

The centre console with Direct Touch Control and a new 12.3-inch touch display for the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) act as the driver’s interface to all vehicle functions.

Porsche said the third generation model range combines powerful and efficient engines with a new, responsive eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox which enhances capabilities thanks to shorter response times and sportier ratios in the lower gears.

The six-cylinder turbo engine of the Cayenne delivers 450 Nm of torque and 340 hp, a 40 hp increase on its predecessor. It reaches 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, or just 5.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package, and has a top speed of 245 km/h.

The Cayenne S is powered by a 2.9-litre, biturbo-charged V6 engine with 440 hp (an increase of 20 hp) and 550 Nm of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds (4.9 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package) and boasts a top speed of 265 km/h.

The new Porsche Cayenne and Cayenne S have been priced at BD30,900 and BD37,600 ($81,728 and $99,449) respectively.-TradeArabia News Service