Porsche has officially unveiled ahead of the LA Motor Show, the latest model and eighth generation of the iconic German sportscar, the Porsche 911 codenamed the ‘992’. A technology and design evolution from the last model, but unmistakably committed to the Porsche design DNA and the uncompromising dynamism that the classic rear-engine sportscar is famed for.
The driver focused interior has been completely redesigned with an emphasis on technology, taking cues from the new design language first introduced in the Porsche Panamera. The central rev counter – typical for Porsche – is flanked by two thin, frameless freeform displays which supply information to the driver leading to the centre console screen which has been enlarged to 10.9 inches. Below the screen lies a newly design compact switch unit allowing direct access to important vehicle functions.
The 911 takes the next step into the future with permanent connectivity as well as new functions and services including online navigation based on swarm data as well as Porsche Connect Plus.
On the outside the 992 has been completely remodelled with a design emphasis hinting to the leap in performance from the 991 model. The front body is 45mm wider with significantly wider wheel arches over the staggered 20-inch front wheels and 21-inch rear wheels. The rear end is now the same width across all models, highlighting the slimline centre section.
Flush integration of the electrical pop-out handles in the doors emphasise the tapered and smooth side contour. Between the new LED headlights, a bonnet with a pronounced recess evokes the design of the first 911 generations. The rear is dominated on all models by the significantly wider, variable-position rear spoiler and the seamless, elegant light bar. Apart from the front and rear sections, the entire outer skin is now made from aluminium.
The flat-six turbo charged heart of the 911 is now more powerful than ever before and is powered by a newly developed eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. With an improved injection process and a new layout for the turbochargers and charge air cooling system, the 911 992 now produces 444 hp (331 kW) in the S models – an increase of 30 hp (22 kW) from the previous model.
Both the Carrera S and Carrera 4S beat the four-second mark for acceleration from 0-62 mph: the rear-wheel-drive Coupé needs 3.7 seconds and the 911 Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive just 3.6 seconds. This makes both cars 0.4 seconds faster than the previous model in each case. This advantage is increased by a further 0.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The top speeds are now 191 mph (911 Carrera S) and 190 mph for the all-wheel-drive version.
In a world first, Porsche has developed Wet mode, included as standard. This function detects water on the road, preconditions the control systems accordingly and warns the driver, who can then set up the vehicle for a particular emphasis on safety, by simply pushing a button or using the mode switch on the steering wheel (Sport Chrono Package).
