The idea that hybrids and SUVs just don't fit with Porsche's image is, a this point, well-worn. But the 2011 Cayenne S Hybrid may serve to change some minds. On sale in November, the hybrid SUV sprints to 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds--while delivering 21/25 mpg city/highway.

Those are impressive figures for such a large vehicle, and perhaps indicates that Porsche has figured out how to make the SUV/hybrid filling fit the Porsche mold.

Top speed of the Cayenne S Hybrid is 150 mph, but when you're not on the Autobahn or the race track, the hybrid's electric-drive system is good for all-electric stints up to 37 mph. The top-end performance is thanks to the 333-horsepower supercharged V-6 under the hood, while the 47-horsepower electric motor pairs with the V-6 engine to offer 428 pound-feet of torque at just 1,000 rpm.

To manage the interaction of the gasoline and electric propulsion units, Porsche developed what it calls its "Hybrid Manager," a computerized system that measures driving conditions and power demand to handle the decoupling clutch between the gas and electric drive units.

Check out our preview for more on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid, and get in contact with your local Porsche dealer now if you're interested in being one of the first to buy the new hybrid sport ute.

[Porsche]