Porsche 911 991-generation debuts for 2012

Early leaks had already revealed the unsurprising looks, but full details have officially been released for the 2012 Porsche 911. Dubbed the 991 generation, this version has actually undergone a heavy transformation under the skin. The initial launch includes the Carrera and the Carrera S.

If the shape looks a bit “off”, it’s because the wheelbase has been stretched by 100 mm, with a wider front track and a new rear axle. The new lightweight body is an aluminium-steel composite that cuts 45 kg off the total weight. With greater structural rigidity, optimised aerodynamics and a wider variably-extending rear spoiler, the new 911 Carrera’s front and rear lift has been reduced to near zero while retaining the Cd value of 0.29.

The interior gets the Panamera treatment, with a high-mounted shifter located close to the steering wheel.

Porsche is also focusing on fuel economy, using an automatic engine stop-start feature and switching to new electro-mechanical power steering that still retains feedback and precision, according to Porsche.

The 911 Carrera with the new 350 hp 3.4-liter boxer-6 engine and optional PDK consumes 8.2 litres/100 km. The 911 Carrera with PDK needs only 4.6 seconds for the 0-100 kph sprint, or 4.4 seconds when using the optional Sport Chrono Package’s Launch Control function. Top speed is 286 kph.

The 911 Carrera S with its 400 hp 3.8-liter boxer-6 engine achieves 8.7 litres/100 km with the optional PDK transmission. The Carrera S with PDK accelerates 0-100 kph in 4.3 seconds. Using the Launch Control function of the optional Sport Chrono Package cuts that to 4.1 seconds. Top speed is 301 kph.

Porsche seems to be intentionally staying vague on the 7-speed manual gearbox choice, while also not releasing full specs on the new engines.

The optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilisation system, available for the first time on the 911 Carrera S, “helps reduce lateral roll when cornering and helps keep the tyres in the optimal position relative to the road surface.”

The new Porsche 911 Carrera will have its world premiere at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The first new 911 models will arrive in showrooms by February 2012.

Keep track of UAE & GCC updates in the Porsche 911 buyer guide.