Gemballa Tornado: 666-Horsepower Porsche Cayenne Turbo

LEONBURG, Germany — The Gemballa tuning firm has released its first vehicle under new management: a modified 2011 Porsche Cayenne Turbo that it calls the Tornado.

Although the firm is still finishing up its Stage Two performance package that includes larger turbos, it estimates that output on the twin-turbo V8 will be bumped up to 666 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque. Braking power is upgraded with a set of Brembo internally ventilated discs sized 16.5 inches in front and 16 inches in the back.

The exterior gets the typical radical Gemballa treatment with carbon-fiber bumpers, hood and doors that all combine to cut 154 pounds off the vehicle's curb weight. Visually, the focal point is the deep door scallops, inlaid with unpainted carbon fiber on both sides. A set of 22-inch aluminum wheels sporting the Brembo braking system finish off the new look.

Interior modifications are sure to be available, and Gemballa says it will only produce 30 of these mean machines.

Inside Line says: Even under new management, the Tornado manages to maintain that aggressive and unique Gemballa look. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent