Continuing with their downsizing policy, Porsche recently ditched the V8 engine in the new Panamera models in favour of a twin-turbo V6. But as it turns out even the six-cylinder engines might be in jeopardy, as Porsche confirmed they are working on a new family of flat-four units.

The new small engines are in early stages of development and will not be ready until at least the next three years. then they will launch in Porsche’s small sports car, the Cayman and the Boxster, and if they finally get around making it, a brand-new entry-level sports roadster.

Boasting technologies such as variable turbochargers and direct injection, the flat-four engines are expected to deliver the same sort of power as the existing flat-six units, while returning much better fuel economy.

Porsche is also working on a 2.0 liter four-cylinder diesel engine for the new Macan Crossover.

via Autocar