Porsche Unveils 911 Turbo with New 3.8-Litre Engine at Frankfurt
Porsche has introduced the seventh-generation 911 Turbo at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, featuring an all-new 3.8-litre engine, more power and improved efficiency.
Porsche has presented the new 911 Turbo at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, marking the debut of the seventh generation of the range-topping model. The latest 911 Turbo is powered by a newly developed 3.8-litre flat-six engine with direct fuel injection, producing 500bhp, and introduces a series of technical updates aimed at raising both performance and efficiency.
The 3.8-litre engine is the first entirely new power unit in the 35-year history of the 911 Turbo. It features direct injection and Porsche’s variable turbine geometry turbochargers, a technology previously introduced on the outgoing model but now paired with a larger displacement and improved efficiency. The result is a 20bhp increase over the previous 3.6-litre Turbo, along with sharper throttle response and lower emissions.
Performance and efficiency improvements
Porsche claims the new 911 Turbo will accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds when equipped with the optional seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox. Top speed is quoted at 312km/h (194mph). Despite the performance increase, Porsche says CO2 emissions have been cut by almost 18% compared to the previous model. Fuel consumption now stands at 11.4 to 11.7 litres per 100km (24.8 to 24.1mpg, EU5 standard), depending on specification.
The PDK transmission is offered for the first time on the Turbo, providing faster shifts and improved efficiency over the previous Tiptronic automatic. Buyers can also specify a new three-spoke steering wheel with gearshift paddles, replacing the earlier shift buttons. Launch Control and Sport/Sport Plus modes are available through the optional Sport Chrono Package Turbo, with displays integrated into the steering wheel design.
Chassis and dynamics updates
The new Turbo retains all-wheel drive and Porsche Stability Management, but adds Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) as an option for the first time. PTV works by applying variable torque to the rear wheels, which, together with the revised PTM all-wheel drive, is intended to improve agility and steering precision. These updates are aimed at enhancing the car’s handling without sacrificing everyday usability.
Pricing and availability
Porsche will offer the new 911 Turbo in both Coupé and Cabriolet forms. German sales begin on 21 November 2009. The base price in Germany (excluding VAT and national specifications) is €122,400 for the Coupé and €131,800 for the Cabriolet. Including VAT and national specifications, the retail prices are €145,871 and €157,057 respectively.
The arrival of the new Turbo follows a pattern set by Porsche for updating its 911 range with incremental improvements in performance, efficiency and technology. For more on recent Porsche debuts, see the Macan’s European launch at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show at /2014-geneva-motor-show-live-porsche-macan.
Key technical specifications
| Engine | 3.8-litre flat-six, twin-turbo, direct injection |
|---|---|
| Power | 500bhp (368kW) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK dual-clutch (optional) |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| 0-100km/h | 3.4 seconds (PDK) |
| Top speed | 312km/h (194mph) |
| Fuel consumption (EU5) | 11.4–11.7 l/100km (24.8–24.1mpg) |
