After much speculation, denying and more rumour, Porsche CEO Martin Winterkorn confirmed the development of a compact SUV to supplement the Cayenne two months ago. Now, the board of management has confirmed the name Cajun as well.
The production of a smaller (though no less premium) SUV will help the Porsche brand achieve high volume – with the ultimate goal of the VW Group overtaking Toyota as the largest global manufacturer by 2018.
The Cayenne was a first for the Stuttgart-based firm when it was introduced eight years ago, as well as the more recent Panamera saloon, and both have fared well. The Cajun shouldn’t fare too poorly then – especially when one considers the popularity of the compact SUV segment.
The Cajun will reportedly be based on the Audi Q5’s platform but will have a slightly shorter wheelbase. The roofline will also be lower than that of the Q5, and naturally, the Cajun will sport a heftier price tag.
The move also suggests that Porsche is making its products slightly more accessible the wider audiences, a departure from its previous status as a two-seater sports car-only automaker.