Rather than continuing the Acadian cuisine-based naming theme started by the Cayenne, the new Evoque rival will adopt a seemingly unrelated moniker. Macan derives from the Indonesian word for ‘Tiger’, and is intended to signify ‘suppleness, power, fascination and dynamics’. While ‘fascination’ may be taking things a little far for a car which shares underpinnings and engines with an Audi Q5, they’ll be breathed on by the Stuttgart firm.

Arriving in 2013, the Macan will spearhead an initiative by Porsche to expand its model range, with the intention of selling 150,000 cars per year by 2018 (in 2011, the firm sold 110,000). Porsche is also likely to release a sportier, three-door version of the Macan, the result of the company scrutinising the sales success of the 3-door Evoque.

Further facts are scarce, but the timing of the release of this information could suggest that more will be revealed at Geneva next month. Stick with Classic Driver for more details as they’re released.

Photo: Porsche