Porsche is just over a year away from launching its first ever diesel model with news today the company plans to release a diesel powered Cayenne SUV next year. Porsche will likely go with a V6 diesel borrowed from Audi, which insiders claim will develop more than 300hp. Porsche had the option of selecting V8, V10 and even V12 diesel powerplants (as seen in the Audi R8 TDI concept) but ruled these out because they were deemed too heavy.

The information comes from UK auto industry analyst Peter Schmidt, who revealed to Automotive News Europe that “the diesel engine will be an upgraded V6 diesel from Audi.” Porsche wasn’t willing to confirm the comments but previously its CEO Wendelin Wiedeking said diesel powertrains were of interest to the carmaker.

Part of the reason for the inclusion of diesel powertrains is stricter emissions laws coming in to Europe, which mandates carmakers reduce their fleet average carbon emissions. According to Schmidt, Audi is developing a new twin-turbocharged 3.2L V6 diesel with more than 300hp and consumption figures of better than 30mpg.

To reduce its carbon footprint and improve the fuel-economy of its some of its vehicles, Porsche is also developing new hybrid technology with sister brand Volkswagen that’ll be available as an option on its next-gen Cayenne SUV and Panamera four-door coupe.

Audi has recently unveiled its diesel powered TT Coupe and cross-country rival Mercedes has also flirted with the possibility of a diesel performance car, even going so far as to build a short-lived C30 CDI AMG.


Source: Motor Authority >> Porsche launching diesel Cayenne in 2009