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Porsche affixes window sticker to Cayenne GTS
click above for more high-res images of the Porsche Cayenne GTS

If you're looking to augment your garage with something more punchy than a Cayenne S, but can't afford the dilithium crystals required to power the warp engines in the delightfully obscene Cayenne Turbo, Porsche has come up with a new middle ground in the 405-horsepower Cayenne GTS. The V8 in Porsche's newest SUV is basically a massaged version of the one in the Cayenne S, but in the GTS, it can be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox for maximum entertainment. A turbo-like front end, 21-inch wheels, air suspension with PASM, and Alcantara seating designed to hold your Brooks Brothers slacks like velcro are all part of the package, too. If you want in on the party, prepare to hand the nice man at the door at least $69,300. And remember, every time you rev the engine, an RS Spyder stirs. Porsche PR after the jump.

Continue reading Porsche affixes window sticker to Cayenne GTS

(Via Autoblog.)

Rinspeed X-treme based on the Porsche Cayenne

Swiss tuner Rinspeed presented this tuning program for the Porsche Cayenne. Called the Rinspeed X-treme, the program features a more aggressive and aerodynamics body kit, with new frontskirt/bumper, bigger air-intakes with fins, front splitter with its own brake aeration, wider wheel arches, new side skirts, new rear skirt and difusor, plus two rear chrome exhaust tips.

Also, an exclusive leather interior is available as well as customizing options as individual bucket seating, home entertainment systems and many other items round up the diversified program. The X-treme also got some mechanical modifications and the power output has been increased to 600 hp. See more photos of the Rinspeed X-treme after the jump.

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(Via Auto Unleashed.)

Lexus LF-A beats Porsche 911 GT2

Hey, remember the Lexus LF-A concept? Here’s the real one, powered by 4.8L V10 churning out 552bhp and has set a lap records at Nurburgring at 7 minutes 24 seconds compare to Porsche 911 GT2 at 7 minutes, 32 seconds. A 210 mph top speed is said to be the car’s upper bound. Video after the jump.

(Via 2dayBlog - Technology Journal, New Gadget everyday!.)

Athletic beauty: The TechArt Widebody based on the Porsche Cayman S doesn’t only offer spectacular design but also extra driving fun and agility. After the huge success of the Widebody concept for the current Boxster generation, TechArt Automobildesign has now developed a wide body version for the mid-engine coupe.

With the add-on fender flarings on front and rear axle the TechArt Widebody is eight centimeters wider than the standard car. The front extensions don’t only provide extra room inside the wheel houses but also improve the deventilation of the heated up air with their integrated wheel-house ventilation. The rear flarings are equipped with largely dimensioned air ducts to bring fresh air to the centrally placed engine.

Apart from spectacular, sporty design the TechArt designers of course paid attention to optimal aerodynamic efficiency. The TechArt front spoiler bumper reduces the lift at the front axle and improves the cooling of the front brakes with large air ducts. The TechArt rear apron with integrated diffuser rounds out the conversion.

The tail of the car can be alternatively upgraded with the large TechArt GT sport rear wing or a subtle rear spoiler.

Extremely broad wheels and tires make the TechArt Widebody concept for the Boxster complete: Specially for this wide body version they developed custom-made versions of the one-piece TechArt Formula five spoke wheel. The front axle is equipped with wheels in size 8.5Jx20, the rear axle is equipped with 12Jx20 wheels.

After extensive test drives, TechArt Automobildesign recommends ContiSportContact 2 high performance tires in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 front and 305/25 ZR 20 rear for the Widebody. The height-adjustable TechArt sport suspension is specially set-up for these ultra-wide wheels and tires and the wider track of the car. The coil-over suspension doesn’t only provide an individual damping of the roadster but also lowers the two-seater car by some 25 millimeters. Cayman models with PASM system can be updated with the sporty set up TechArt VarioPlus coil over sport suspension. This suspension isn’t only adjustable in height but also in damping by a push on the button inside the cockpit.

TechArt also offers engine tuning for the Widebody. The two watercooled six-cylinder boxer engines can be upgraded with the TechArt power kits. They each consist of a sport air filter and newly programmed engine electronics. The result: 15 hp / 11 kW extra power and optimized road performance.

Another performance option is the TechArt increase in displacement from standard 3,387 cm³ to 3,824 cm³. The increase is facilitated by a bore enlarged to 99 millimeters with the corresponding larger special pistons, and by the installation of a special crankshaft.

The engine conversion further includes sports camshafts. A modified intake manifold with special air filter system and an aluminum header provide ample combustion air. The perfect interaction of all these components including the fully stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with high-performance manifolds is orchestrated by new mapping for the engine electronics.

With a maximum power output of 385 hp / 283 kW and a peak torque of 407 Nm the TechArt displacement engine satisfies both highly sporty minded drivers as well as those pilots who want lots of pulling power from low engine speed.

Powered by this engine, the mid-engine sports car offers excellent performance: The sprint from 0 - 100 km/h takes just 4.9 seconds, and with a top speed of 303 km/h the TechArt two-seater easily bests its production counterpart in this discipline, too.

TechArt offers individual full leather trims in all colors and designs for the Widebody. The range reaches from completing the ex-works leather trims up to a completely redesigned cockpit with special sports seats and ergonomically shaped airbag sports steering wheel.

Powerful engine tuning and exclusive accessories that leave nothing to be desired: TechArt Automobildesignalso offers an extensive customization program for the new 997-series models Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and 4S.

TechArt also provides engine tuning for both water-cooled six-cylinder engines of the Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S, coupe or cabriolet. The TechArt power kits TA 097/1 for the 3.6-liter version and TA 097/S1 for the Carrera S with 3.8-liter displacement each consist of a sport air filter and newly programmed engine electronics.

After the installation, which can be done directly at TechArt Automobildesign or by any authorized Porsche dealer, maximum power output for each model increases by 15 hp / 11 kW.

Performance improves accordingly: Depending on vehicle weight and the type of tires acceleration time from 0 - 100 km/h improves by slightly under half a second. Top speed increases by some 5 km/h. Even more important for everyday use is the even more spontaneous throttle response and the further improved liveliness of the tuned engines.

The perfect complement to the power kits is TechArt exhaust tuning, of which various versions are available. The product lineup includes oval-shaped dual tailpipes for the production exhaust system, a throttle-controlled sport exhaust system and a complete high-performance exhaust system with high-performance manifolds, sport catalysts and rear muffler.

Sporty elegance characterizes the design of the TechArt aerodynamic-enhancement kit: The production front apron receives more visual emphasis from the TechArt front spoiler. But that’s not all: The spoiler reduces aerodynamic lift, thus further improving directional stability at high speeds.

The alternatively available TechArt Type II front apron with integrated splitter produces downforce on the front axle and supplies lots of fresh air to the coolers and front brakes via larger, distinctively styled air intakes.

The TechArt side sills give the sportscar a longer, sleeker look. The understated TechArt rear spoiler optimizes the effect of the retractable production rear spoiler and lends the cabriolet an even more exciting appearance.

TechArt also developed a rear diffuser for the 997 models, which extends the rear apron downward and provides a dramatic backdrop for the two oval-shaped twin tailpipes of the TechArt sport exhaust system.

TechArt also offers an extensive wheel and suspension program: Owners of the new Porsche 911 Carrera or Carrera S can refine their cars with striking, light-weight TechArt Formula five-spoke wheels with 18-, 19- or 20-inch diameters.

The most exclusive version for the 911 Carrera 4 or 4S features one-piece TechArt Formula light-alloy wheels in size 8.5Jx20 in front and in size 12Jx20 on the rear axle. TechArt recommends ContiSportContact 2 tires in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 and 305/25 ZR 20 for mounting on these wheels.

Custom-calibrated to the TechArt tire/wheel combinations are the TechArt suspension solutions. The range of modifications starts with TechArt sport springs for a ride-height lowering of some 25 millimeters. It culminates in the TechArt Vario sport suspension that was developed in cooperation with Bilstein. Contrary to conventional coil-over suspensions this innovative solution not only offers the ability to lower the ride-height on front and rear axle individually by up to some 35 millimeters; the TechArt Vario sport suspension also features sport shocks with adjustable bound and rebound. This allows the suspension set-up to be adjusted to individual driver’s preferences and to the predominant use of the car – on public roads or on the racetrack.

TechArt Automobildesign also offers a height-adjustable coil-over sport suspension for the 997 models with PASM.

For the 997 model series TechArt also offers sport sway bars, a dome cross-brace, and a high-performance brake system with eight-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 365- or 380-millimeter brake discs.

As a world-renowned specialist for exclusive interior creations TechArt Automobildesign also offers individual interiors for the latest 911 Carrera 4 and 4S in all colors and designs.

The program comprises exclusive TechArt Colorline fully leather interiors as well as sporty accessories: TechArt offers ergonomically shaped airbag sport steering wheels, foot pedals, foot rest and shift knob all made from aluminum as well as stainless-steel sill plates with TechArt logo.

What is created through passionate precision and with the love of detail emphasises the respect towards an inimitable automobile. Dynamic driving through performance and optimum aerodynamics becomes an experience of the highest art with the TECHART Turbo Cabriolet on the basis of the new Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet. TECHART Automobildesign merges technology and art to produce a complete work.

Functionality and aesthetics are two inseparable components at TECHART Automobildesign. The 3.6 litre Boxer engine is modified in many details at TECHART. Two special turbo chargers, carbon suction pipes and made to measure intercoolers contribute equally to TECHART performance enhancement as the sport air filter and the stainless steel exhaust system with special manifolds and high performance catalytic converters. All modifications are perfectly coordinated using the newly programmed engine management.

Following the individualisation, up to 630 hp / 463 kW and a maximum torque of 820 Nm are available. From 0 – 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 345 km/h, combined with fascinating contours that any enthusiast will immediately notice. The power transmission to all four wheels takes place via a modified six gear manual transmission with TECHART switch path reduction and additional gear oil cooling. Therefore, the cabriolet refined by TECHART is among the fastest super sports cars in the world.

These driving performances place the highest demands in the aerodynamically optimised exterior design. In the wind channel, TECHART developed car body components that lend the TECHART Turbo Cabriolet not only an unmistakable look, but also equally the best possible aerodynamics.

Within this framework, customers can choose between two versions.

The elegant front spoiler of the Aerokit I merges seamlessly with the forms of the bumper and conveys already at first glance pure sportiness. Aerodynamic lateral sills emphasise the stretched side line and lend the flank of the automobile the typical TECHART dynamism. The lowered rear diffuser with additional, lateral air outlets and the entirely redesigned wing profile of the extendable rear spoiler complete the inimitable exterior.

The same applies to the TECHART Aerokit II. The clearly sporty appearance with clear references to the TECHART classic sports car GTstreet cannot be overlooked. Independent Aerokit II front and rear aprons perfect direction of the air masses for an improved inflow of the brakes and the intercooler. At the same time, the buoyant force on the front axle is reduced in connection with the rear spoiler II, while the down force on the rear axle is enhanced additionally.

The electronically adjustable PASM shock absorption system in the new TECHART Turbo Cabriolet is further equipped with the TECHART VarioPlus threaded chassis. This frame not only permits the option of an individually adjustable lowering by up to 25 millimetres, but also the selection of shock absorber settings between “normal” and “sport” at the push of a button in the cockpit. But while driving, one is not restricted to these pre-settings. When driving in a sporting fashion, suspension in both levels automatically gets tighter. This achieves the optimum symbiosis between excellent comfort in normal driving and agile, direct handling when driving fast into the curve.

One of the great arts of TECHART Automobildesign is not only in the name of the refiner – the individual design work turns the full circle of the performance portfolio and mirrors the philosophy of the company. The finest and highest quality leather hides, the extraordinary attention in the creation and processing of the desired interior and the craftsmanship of the TECHART upholstery shop, matured over years, provide customers with the car created specifically for them with the certain nuance of their personal style.

Technology and Art
Only if crafts tradition, tried and tested technology and passionate precision come together perfectly can works of masterful art be created.

TECHNICAL DATA

TECHART Turbo Cabriolet on the basis of the 997 Turbo Cabriolet

• Aerodynamics:

  • TECHART Aerodynamic Kit I consisting of:

    • Front spoiler lip, side sill, rear diffuser and rear spoiler

• TECHART Aerodynamic Kit II consisting of:

  • Headlight shades / mirror shades / roof spoiler / air outlet grid in the front apron

  • Front spoiler, side sill, rear apron and rear spoiler

• Engine (for manual transmission and Tiptronic S):

  • Performance enhancement TA097/T1 to 389 kW (530 hp)

  • Performance enhancement TA097/T2 to 389 kW (580 hp)

  • Performance enhancement TA097/T3 to 389 kW (630 hp)

  • Sport exhaust system and flap exhaust system / End pipes in high gloss chromium and matt black

• Power transmission (for manual gears):

  • Sport clutch / switch shortening / ball bearing mounted switching paths

• Chassis:

  • TECHART VarioPlus threaded chassis

  • Sport suspension set / sport stabilisers

  • Strut mounting / spacing disks

• Wheels:

  • TECHART Formula / TECHART Formula II light metal wheels

  • Front 8.5Jx20 with 245/30 R 20 ContiSportContact3 or Michelin Pilot Sport PS 2

  • Rear 12Jx20 with 325/25 R 20 ContiSportContact3 or Michelin Pilot Sport PS 2

• Brakes:

  • TECHART Sport Braking System Plus VA: 390mm, 6-piston aluminium callipers, HA: 365mm, 4-piston aluminium callipers

  • Steel flex brake kit

• Interior:

  • Leather fittings

  • Aluminium line (pedals, entrance boards, gearshift head)

  • Steering wheels / sport seats / optic packages (interior components lacquered) / carpet fittings

After showing off the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid prototype to journalists earlier this year, the German automaker has brought a production version of the SUV out for the public. Expected for delivery by the end of the decade, the new Cayenne Hybrid should see a 30% increase in fuel efficiency.

That means that Porsche, often accused by environmentalists for not wanting to make fuel consumption improvements to their vehicles, will put an SUV on the market getting roughly 26 miles per gallon.

But it was not just environmental concerns that led Porsche to create this vehicle. They claim that their full-hybrid design is more fuel efficient, and provides the driver with better acceleration than the current Cayenne.

"As both efficiency and perormance can be improved on the Cayenne with this system, it is the best fit for Porsche," a release from the company said.

Porsche positioned the electric motor directly between the combustion engine and the transmission, allowing the electric drivetrain to be more compatible with the Cayenne platform. A new onboard computer, dubbed "Hybrid Manager", constantly analyzes 20,000 different pieces of information to give the Cayenne Hybrid the best posssible performance.

Several different features in the car have been tweaked to help decrease fuel consumption. Air conditioning will now run on electric power, and a vacuum pump will be used in the braking system. Electro-hydraulic steering not only helps reduce use of fuel, but it also provides solid handling, according to the company.

Porsche also plans to make their hybrid technology available on the Panamera four-door Gran Turismo. The Panamera will be released in 2009, and the hybrid version should come out about a year later.