Porsche considers US launch for Cayenne and Panamera diesels
Porsche is weighing the introduction of diesel-powered Cayenne and Panamera models to the US market, following rising demand for luxury diesels among American buyers.
Porsche is evaluating whether to launch diesel versions of its Cayenne SUV and the upcoming Panamera sedan in the United States, as the Stuttgart-based manufacturer responds to a growing appetite for diesel engines among luxury car buyers in the US. Bernhard Maier, Porsche’s sales and marketing director, confirmed that internal discussions are underway and a decision is expected soon.
The European-market Cayenne Diesel, launched in 2009, is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine producing 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It is the first diesel Porsche since the company stopped making tractors in the 1960s. The SUV delivers an estimated 25.3 US mpg and features all-wheel drive with a Tiptronic-S automatic gearbox.
Diesel demand among US luxury buyers
While diesels have traditionally held a small share of the US passenger car market, recent years have seen that share increase, especially in the luxury segment. Industry figures show a 27 percent rise in US diesel car sales in 2011, helped by new models from German manufacturers and growing interest in fuel economy. Porsche sees this trend as an opportunity to expand its US line-up beyond petrol and hybrid models.
If approved, the Cayenne Diesel would join a US SUV market that has already seen diesel entries from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. A Panamera diesel, expected to debut in Europe, could follow if the Cayenne proves successful. No technical specifications for the Panamera diesel have been released, but it is likely to share the Cayenne’s 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine.
Internal debate and timing
Porsche has not committed to a launch date for either diesel model in the US. Maier said the company is monitoring market developments and will make a final decision soon. The move would allow Porsche to compete directly with other German luxury brands offering diesel options, and to address tightening US fuel economy standards.
A US launch of the Cayenne Diesel would mark a shift for Porsche, which has so far limited its American SUV range to petrol and hybrid variants. The company’s decision will depend on internal discussions and the pace of diesel market growth in the US. A successful introduction could pave the way for further diesel models in the Porsche line-up.
- Porsche Cayenne Diesel: 3.0-litre V6 TDI, 240 hp, 406 lb-ft torque, 25.3 US mpg (estimated)
- Potential Panamera Diesel: expected to use 3.0-litre V6 TDI, technical details to follow
