German automaker Porsche has ordered the recall of nearly 21,000 Cayenne models sold in China, due to defects in the car's lighting system, the nation's quality watchdog said Friday.

The recall covers four models of the Cayenne sedan manufactured between March 2010 and January this year, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said in a notice on its website.

Due to the defects in the headlights, Porsche would be recalling 20,826 cars sold during the period, the administration said.

Repairs to the lights would be free of charge, it added.

China is the world's largest auto market after overtaking the US in 2009. It is also a key market for luxury brands, with the country's growing ranks of mega-rich splashing out on fancy cars to show off their wealth.

Earlier this month, Italian luxury car maker Maserati recalled 222 vehicles in China due to a defective rear lights, the quality watchdog said.