Company returns to Detroit with gusto

Porsche is marking its return to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit after a four-year absence with a debut that will reportedly kick down the doors to the show.

The company is being tight lipped about the unveiling that will kick off the two-day media debut program, but rumours abound it will be a halo coupe based on the 918 Spyder concept shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The car would have a presence very similar to the Audi R8 (Porsche is the majority shareholder in Volkswagen, which owns Audi), but that’s where the similarities would end.

Rumour has the concept coupe being displayed in racecar form (the 918 Spyder concept has its roots in the Porsche LMP racecar platform), reportedly powered by an eight-cylinder engine making some 600+ horsepower.

Porsche recently gave the green light to production of the 918 Spyder in limited quantities, and admits the platform can accommodate various bodystyles, powertrains (different configurations of engines with the ability to link up hybrid configurations) and drivetrains (rear and four wheel drive).

It also says the new concept may point the way to a future direction.