Porsche launches Transsyberia Cayenne

Porsche has dominated the Transsyberia rally for the past three years and to celebrate its achievement it will launch a new special edition of its Cayenne SUV at the Paris Motor Show.

The Cayenne S Transsyberia uses the Cayenne GTS's more powerful 405bhp 4.8-litre V8, which also produces 369lb.ft of torque at 3,500rpm. With the help of a six-speed manual gearbox, the new model sprints from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds, a half a second quicker than the standard Cayenne S. Top speed is 158mph.

Buyers of the Transsyberia model can choose how obvious they want their special edition to be. The off-road, roof-mounted lights are a no-cost option, as are the Transsyberia decals on the doors, mirrors and rear spoiler.

Colour choice will also determine how easy it is to spot the Transsyberia specials, as buyers have the option of a black/orange paint scheme - echoing that of the winning race cars - along with silver/orange, black/grey or grey/silver options. With the exception of the latter the 18-inch alloy wheels come as standard in the contrasting colours.

Inside the Transsyberia model, occupants are treated to plenty of Alcantara, as well as new trim colour-coded the exterior of the car.

In Germany, the new special edition will cost €77,558 (approximately £62,500), though UK pricing will be announced following the Transsyberia's debut at the Paris Show, with sales starting in Europe early in 2009.

Shane O' Donoghue