With a 0-60 time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of only 150 MPH, the newest member of Porsche’s most prolific model lineage isn’t the most ferocious track-inspired road variant to join the family tree. But the rally homage — which, naturally, is called the 911 Dakar — may be the coolest SUV facsimile to ever roam the countryside.

As Porsche’s press release leader has it, the 2023 911 Dakar ‘proves its mettle where the pavement ends’; when outfitted with the Rallye Design Package, it’s higher than a Sport Suspension-optioned 911 Carrera, and the automaker outfitted it with a lift system for an additional clearance of 30 mm. It also comes shod in Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires. Porsche’s Dynamic Chassis Control is along for the ride to eliminate roll, while rear-axle steering and engine mounts borrowed from the GT3 provide additional stability on contingency-rich terrain.

The 911 Dakar is loaded with Porsche’s Boxer engine, a 3.0L biturbo that in this case produces 473 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed PDK puts the energy to use. Joining the available driving modes on the variant is a special Rallye Mode, as well as an Off-Road Mode; modes may be changed from the steering wheel. Lightweight glass and carbon fiber reinforced plastic keep the car’s weight down.

For those looking for an authentic Dakar look, a roof basket may be optioned, and a roof tent as well. Additional rally styling basics include the exclusion of rear seats, while upholstery in the variant is hard-wearing ‘Race-Tex’. Accent stitching in ‘Shade Green’ picks up the variant-exclusive exterior color, although the standard blue-on-white livery that comes standard with the Rallye Design Package carries the flame for Porsche’s legendary 1984 Dakar Rally win.

Porsche will produce 2,500 examples of the 911 Dakar, with initial deliveries to the U.S. landing in the spring. The rally-ready variant will be priced from $223,450 (with delivery, processing and handling fees included).