Now that the GT3 RS has completed the uber-rich 911 line-up, it’s time for the German automaker to give us the mid-cycle revamp for the 991 generation of their rear-engined coupe.
A series of 911 prototypes have recently been spied in the proximity of Porsche’s headquarters in Stuttgart, with the videos below showing us the new generation in both Coupe and Cabriolet guise.
While the prototypes have lost most of their camo, the usual subtle changes brought by such revamps are still hidden. Sure, we can see the new exhaust layout and the active shutter grilles up front, but the headlights remain hidden.
The turbos outside the Turbo model
Nonetheless, the greatest change will be found at the back of the 911, where Porsche engineers will bring a turbo revolution. The latest rumors see the base 911 Carrera ditching its 3.4-liter boxer in favor of a forced-fed 2.7-liter engine.
While it’s too early to talk about the relationship between this and the atmospheric unit used by the base Boxster and Cayman, the turbo flat-six is expected to bring an increase in power, which currently sits at 350 hp. The obvious target here is an efficiency boost, with the average fuel consumption expected to sit at 29.4 MPG (8L/100 KM).
Turning to the 911 Carrera S, this should loose its naturally aspirated 3.8-liter flat-six for a 3.4-liter turbo powerplant. Once again, the capacity is that used by the NA Boxster S/ Cayman S, but we’re not sure what to make of this for the moment.
What the future holds
And speaking of increased efficiency, we recently showed you a patent that talks about Porsche introducing a variable compression ratio technology. To put it shortly, the new technology would allow the German engines to display superior efficiency, especially at low revs, while high-end performance would also be increased.
Nevertheless, the variable compression ratio may have to wait until the next generation of the 911, which should land around 2020. The next 911 will also see Porsche’s Le Mans hybrid lessons translated into its road cars.
Meanwhile, we’re looking forward to this fall’s Frankfurt Motor Show, which is where the 911 facelift should bow.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
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