It's official unveiling won't take place until next month's LA Motor Show, but Porsche has decided to unveil the first official images of the Macan undergoing final testing and assessment work in the US tackling terrains from tarmac and mud to desert and dirt tracks. Prices have also leaked online. At launch, Porsche will offer a Macan S with a 335-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 priced at $52,000, and a Macan Turbo with a 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 rated at 394 hp priced at $75,000.

A 3.0-liter V6 diesel will also be offered, with all engines mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch box. Rumors of a 2.0-liter boxer-four will be rolled out as an entry-level model have now been denied. While sharing certain chassis parts with the Audi Q5, the Porsche Macan will be 130 kg lighter, sport a unique suspension, 911-inspired interior and new engines. Production will take place at the marque's Leipzig assembly plant and will be pitched as a premium rival to the likes of the Range Rover Evoque and BMW X3.