With 4.4 million cars rolling out of its factories since January this year, Volkswagen-Porsche managed to edge Toyota out of the top spot in terms of production.

Volkswagen-Porsche’s success can be contributed to several factors. In July, nearly a quarter of the group’s global sales came from a range of VW models made specifically for the Chinese market. China lowered sales taxes on cars, effectively boosting demand for this vehicles. The group also benefited from cash-for-clunkers programs in Germany and Britain.

According to IHS Global Insight, though, Toyota may have indirectly had a hand in VW-Porsche’s vicory. Producing just 4 million cars this year, the Japanese auto make decided to halve its output during the first quarter of 2009.

“That extremely hard brake has been keeping Toyota behind Volkswagen by quite a margin. Due to government incentiveas, Volkswagen was not forced to decelerate so hard,” said Christoph Stürmer, director at IHS Global Insight.

Source: Guardian

Not all at once, unfortunately.

The global economic recession had and still have most large companies on their knees. Porsche is no exception. The German automaker’s sales have suffered over the past few months. To make up for the downturn in sales, though, Porsche is planning to introduce seven new models in the coming years.

Included in Porsche’s future offerings is an all-new Cayenne SUV for 2010. The SUV’s promising high-powered performance, thanks to a direct-injection V8 engine under its hood.

The Panamera model range will also be expanded by 2010, with gas and diesel V6 models hitting the market next year. According to British magazine Autocar, the coming V6 Panamera models will take a price cut of at least $15,000.

We can also expect to see a couple of Porsche hybrids in 2011: the Panamera Hybrid and the Cayenne Hybrid. The two will share hybrid systems, but the Cayenne will have an all-wheel drive system. The Panamera will be offered with rear-wheel drive features.

Following the hybrids is an all-new 911 for 2012. The new 911’s body will be completely restyled and will be longer and wider. To support the upsized body, an improved suspension system will come with the all-new 911.

2013 sees three possible offerings from Porsche: a “Roxster” SUV based on the Audi Q5, the Panamera coupe, and the Panamera convertible. The Panamera coupe and convertible will likely be offered under the “928″ line, though.

Source: Left Lane News

2010 Porsche 911 Sport Classic

I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything prettier than this Porsche. Too bad it wasn’t destined for North American shores.

Engine: 3.8-liter flat-six
0 to 60: 4.6 seconds
Max hp: 408 hp
Top Speed: 187 mph
Standard features: double-bubble roof, unique front and rear lighting
Plus points: grey finish, with twin racing stripes, only 250 scheduled for production and release

Source: AutomobileMag

Meet Porsche’s newest baby, the 2009 Porsche Panamera 4-door Gran Turismo.

2009 Porsche Panamera 4-door Gran Turismo

Out with the old, in with the new!

2008 was definitely a good year for import vehicles, with European and Asian makes churning out vehicles that don’t only look pretty, but deliver superior performance on the road.

Cases in point:

This grand tourer can clear the 0-60 mph jump in 3.6 seconds, thanks to an engine that produces as much as 530 horsepower. Braking is also powered by ceramic brakes.

2008 Lexus LX750

This SUV is packed with possibilities any driver would drool over: zoom down the highway with help from an 383-hp engine, press a button to free up valuable cargo space, tow up to 8500 pounds, or tackle the off-road trails comfortably.

Makes you look forward to 2009, eh? Stick with importerz.com as we bring you more import car news and photos!

photos/info from:
www.porschephotos.info
www.lexus.com
http://www.automobilemag.com/