Porsche updates iconic 911

What is it?

It is unmistakably a Porsche 911. Not just any 911, but the latest one. You might wonder how you're supposed to know that, but take a close look at the front and rear lights and the shape of the air intakes in the front bumper and there are subtle differences; there are also new wheel designs and revised mirrors. The rear lights are now kinked to join the boot's shut line and the larger front air intakes feature a trip of LED daytime running lights. The headlamps are slightly different in style too, all 911s now coming with bi-xenon lights as standard. Typically cautious in its updating then, Porsche has instead concentrated on improving performance, efficiency and economy by undertaking extensive engine revisions and introducing a trick new PDK double-clutch seven-speed two-pedal transmission.

Is it any good?

There wasn't much wrong with the 911 as it was, so the new, revised car builds on already impressive foundations. The visual changes might be slight outside and in - a neat new central console featuring inside - but the technical updates are more comprehensive under the skin. The flat-six engines in both 3.6 Carrera and 3.8-litre Carrera S guises gain direct injection, allowing power and torque to increase all while offering better economy and emissions. In the case of the standard Carrera power increases by 20bhp to 345bhp, while the Carrera S's power swells by 30bhp to 385bhp. That allows both to record quicker 0-62mph times, the Carrera managing the benchmark sprint in 4.9 seconds, the S in 4.7 seconds.

Add Porsche's new PDK (Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, or 'double clutch') seven-speed transmission to either and those 0-62mph times fall by a further 0.2 seconds - adding the Sport Chrono Plus package drops that figure by a further 0.2 seconds. The new PDK system replaces the more conventional torque converter equipped Tiptronic system offered previously. PDK works in the same way as the numerous twin-clutch systems offered by other manufacturers, pre-selecting the next gear to make for near seamless gearshifts, this benefiting not just performance but also enhancing economy and emissions. Revisions to the PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) give more comfort in Sport mode, while the standard Carrera gets bigger brakes and additional functions in the PSM (Porsche Stability Management). The result is a sharper, faster 911, the basics still there from the outgoing model - these being great steering weight and feel, fantastic traction and excellent stability. Only now the 911 feels more refined, neater and even quicker.

The PDK transmission is a sensation, Porsche finally adding the technology it demonstrated to good effect in sports car racing in the '80s to its road cars. It shifts quickly and cleanly, though why Porsche has opted for a weird push-pull button on the steering wheel rather than the paddles most other manufacturers offer on such systems is utterly baffling. Porsche claims it's what customers are used to from the Tiptronic and you get used to them; that's as may be, but they simply don't make as much sense as proper paddles.

Should I call the bank manager?

If your bank manager is the sort of person who is willing to fire the £60,000-70,000 into your account to buy a new 911 then we want to meet them. Really, if you're even considering any sports car in this price bracket then you're more than likely already familiar with the 911. It remains the default choice for many and for good reason. The benchmark car in the class just got faster, greener and keener, so give that bank manager a call. You won't regret it.

Summary

Porsche has done its usual trick of making small but significant enhancements to its 911 to improve it. The styling changes might be slight, but park it alongside the 'old' 911 and they're immediately more apparent. The same is true inside, the new central console with its improved satnav (optional) and greater connectivity (iPods, etc. are now all supported) is now of a quality befitting of a £60k+ car. The engine revisions also enhance the package, with more power and greater economy - even if the direct injection units seem to have lost some of the aural appeal of the old indirect-injection flat-sixes. Factor in the new PDK transmission for two-pedal fans and the 911 remains an extremely difficult car to ignore in its class.

Kyle Fortune