Porsche Cayenne coupe is on the way

Porsche Cayenne coupe will rival the BMW X6 and could arrive as early as 2015

The fact that BMW sold 250,000 of the first-generation X6 hasn’t gone unnoticed by its rivals. Mercedes will launch the MLC later this year, and now there's a new BMW X6. Not to be left behind, a Porsche insider has revealed that a sportier Cayenne is on the way, too.

Although an all-new Porsche Cayenne is due in 2017 – based on the same platform as the Bentley SUV and new Audi Q7 – this coupé version could arrive next year, as part of the facelifted range.

Our exclusive image, drawn using inside information, shows how it will blend the Cayenne's robust nose with a 911-style sloping roof. Plus, the Cayenne's suspension and steering will be tuned for even sharper responses, while wider front and rear tracks and a lower ride height will boost lateral grip and drop the centre of gravity.

Engine choices are set to mirror those found in the standard Porsche Cayenne, with V6 petrol and diesel turbos, plus V8 petrols in the S and Turbo. The plunging roofline will mean rear space for just two adults and a tighter boot, but the new car will cost a bit more than the equivalent Cayenne.

The newcomer will take the Porsche SUV tally to three, with the recent launch of the Audi Q5-based Macan. An even sportier coupe version of the Macan is believed not to be part of the product plan at this time.