Technically, the Cayenne S Hybrid is not exactly the first of its kind - Porsche presented a fully functional hybrid version of the first-generation Cayenne three years ago. Based on the entry-level model, the engineers at Weissach stuck an electric motor next to the V6 engine and a compact nickel-metal-hydride battery in the space normally reserved for the spare wheel. It cut the regular Cayenne's 8.1 seconds for the century sprint by half a second, and improved its fuel consumption from 7.8km/l to 10.2km/l.

Earlier this year, the production hybrid Cayenne was finally launched, alongside the rest of the newly revamped Cayenne line-up. While the prototype had a 3.6-litre V6 engine coupled to the electric motor, the production car has a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 (sourced from Audi), apparently for reasons of heft and efficiency.

Positioned between the Cayenne and the Cayenne S, the Cayenne S Hybrid is ideally suited for those who wish to continue with their indulgence in SUVs without feeling the guilt.

Outside it

If you ask around, you'd find that most people thought that the outgoing Cayenne is not much of a looker. Sure, it's dynamically capable but let's be frank, how many cars are sold based on their performance and handling capabilities? At best, its exterior styling has been described as an oversized 911 on stilts.