Lighter, nimbler, and much more attractively styled, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne is a definite improvement on the outgoing model, despite the loss of some of its off-roading capability. But let's face it: no one's buying the Cayenne to go take on the Rubicon or Moab. Early pre-orders for the new Cayenne in Europe are indicating the public feels the same way.

Michael Macht, Porsche's CEO, says the 2011 Porsche Cayenne's pre-orders are "clearly exceeding our expectations," according to a report from Bloomberg. The orders are coming from nearly all markets where the vehicle is up for order, which means essentially everywhere in Europe.

The news is also being taken as another indicator that the industry's decline over 2008 and 2009 is over, with things turning back up in terms of sales and volume.

The new Cayenne made its debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, revealing the sleeker look and new features, including an all-new Cayenne S Hybrid model. The hybrid isn't as thirsty as its brethren, rated at 28.7 mpg in the combined European cycle, but it's not a gutless wonder, either. With a supercharged 333-horsepower V-6 and a 47-horsepower electric motor, it delivers both brisk acceleration and the capability of driving up to 40 mph on electricity alone.

For the full details on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne, check out our preview story here.

[Bloomberg]