The next Porsche Cayenne has had the covers pulled off, with Porsche claiming the third-gen model bears a closer resemblance to the 911.

The Cayenne now completely ditches the V8 and has been launched in two guises, the Cayenne and the Cayenne S.

Both feature a turbocharged V6, with the 1985kg Cayenne producing 250kW/450Nm, and being capable of a charge to 100km/h in 6.2s, or 5.9 with Sport Plus mode active.

2018 Porsche Cayenne rear

The update also sheds up to 65kg from the vehicle’s overall weight due to a build combination of alloy and steel, plus an exterior is made entirely of aluminium and a lithium-ion polymer starter battery.

The Cayenne also scores rear-wheel steering to help the AWD Porker tackle tight turns.

2018 Porsche Cayenne exterior

Porsche’s most commercially important model has also undergone a redesign, which executive board chair Oliver Blume says reflects its updated underpinnings.

“We have completely redeveloped our successful model,” Blume says.

“It has been visibly and tangibly improved and perfected in all respects. The Cayenne has also been digitalised and networked throughout to give it a forward-thinking design.”

2018 Porsche Cayenne interior

Australian-specific pricing and spec have not been confirmed, but the new Cayenne is available to order now in Europe.

Deliveries are expected to commence in Oz from mid-2018.