The Porsche 911 is truly a car that has captivated consumers for generations. And when Porsche recently announced the newest edition of the 911, the news was received with a mix of emotions.
The big news is that now every Porsche 911 except the GT3 and its variants will come with turbochargers — the Carrera line included. The turbocharged Carreras can go from 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds (with the PDK option), and the Carrera S can get from 0-60 in under 4 seconds. What are their top speeds? 183 mph for the Carrera, and 191 for the S.
Drivers desiring speed and acceleration won't be disappointed.
However, there's some debate about bringing "base" 911 models up to par with some of the technology found on Turbos and GT3s. Will the Carrera's new turbo design threaten the 911 Turbo's sovereignty? The Carrera S even has the option of four-wheel steering, and that's recent Porsche technology native to the GT3.
But there are other unique features to the 911 upgrade besides turbo engines and four-wheel steering. There's a new steering wheel with a driving mode switch similar to what's found on the 918 if one opts for the Sport Chrono Package. The options are Normal, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. For all the speed enthusiasts out there, the Sports Response Button preps the transmission for an extended 20-second burst during acceleration — a feature previously only available on 911 Turbos.
And naturally, a modern 911 wouldn't be complete without all the perks of technology like satellite navigation, dual climate control for driver and passenger, Apple CarPlay compatibility, iPad-style swiping through the touch screen, voice control and cloud connection. A boost on the inside complements slight style changes on the exterior with new headlights, door handles without covers, redesigned rear lid and brake lights, and altered suspension that lowers the 911 to the road surface by 10 millimeters.
Possibly the greatest improvement for the 911 is its increased fuel efficiency. The new turbocharged engine means a 20 horsepower increase alongside lower fuel consumption. For the Carrera S, the increased power comes from modified compressors, a specific exhaust system and tuned engine management.
Some individuals receive the greater fuel efficiency news with glee. Coupled with a new set of electronic goodies, what could be better? In fact, fuel efficiency may be the greatest buying factor for Porsche owners. The new throttle response, handling, engine sound and build quality become all but irrelevant. With the European and U.S. governments forcing new fuel regulations, Porsche wouldn't be able to sell cars if they don't comply.
Others, however, look upon fuel regulation with distaste. Their argument is that if $100,000 is spent on a sports car, then why should fuel efficiency be a concern? A sports car is meant for speed, for power, for enjoyment — not for maximum miles per gallon. Investing in a sports car doesn't send a conservative message when it comes to resources like fuel.
Even more interesting is the suggestion from some consumers that the new Carreras may not actually be more fuel efficient than before. Are they really up to 12 percent more efficient when the turbos are boosting during periods of high acceleration?
No one can let their opinion settle for sure until there's a chance to drive Porsche's new 911. Deep down, there's a fear that Porsche's flagship sports car has been "downgraded" into a turbocharged street car whose focus is fuel efficiency. Porsche enthusiasts don't want to lose the splendor of their favorite sports car model with each upgrade.
"We tried to model a normally aspirated engine and avoid turbo lag as much as possible," senior Porsche engineer Dr. Erhard Mössle says. "A lot of detail work has gone into the system to improve [throttle] response. For instance, when you come off the throttle the turbos keep spinning, so they are running at a higher speed when you get back on the throttle. We also have a new sports exhaust system that sounds really good. Yes, it's different to a normally aspirated engine, but it sounds better than the 911 Turbo, more emotional."
The new Carreras do indeed have a new sound. If you watch Porsche's 2016 911 facelift video, your ears may pick up on it. Is it an emotional sound? One of speed, improvement and power? Some don't think so. Some consumers think it sounds generic, like little more than a video game car, and that would be an incredible disappointment. However, what others hear sounds promising, and the refinement of the new 911's style combined with the "emotional" sound makes toes tingle.
Will Porsche 911s of the future be more focused on fuel efficiency, like that of an average car, and less focused on driving pleasure? Only future models will tell for sure. But nothing can spoil the Porsche heritage. The Porsche 911 has been around for 52 years and has left an impact on the hearts of many. Where it is going will not redefine where it has been.