Porsche Unveils 2010 911 Turbo at Frankfurt Motor Show
The seventh-generation Porsche 911 Turbo debuts with a new 3.8-litre engine, 500bhp and improved efficiency, marking a major update for the iconic sports car.
Porsche has introduced the 2010 911 Turbo at the Frankfurt Motor Show, presenting the most substantial technical update for its flagship model in over three decades. The new Turbo, which goes on sale in Germany from 21 November 2009, features an all-new 3.8-litre flat-six engine delivering 500bhp, marking the first time the Turbo receives a completely new power unit since its original launch.
The seventh-generation Turbo introduces direct fuel injection and Porsche’s variable turbine geometry turbochargers, technologies aimed at improving both performance and efficiency. The 3.8-litre engine produces 500bhp (368kW), a 20bhp increase over its predecessor, while torque and throttle response also benefit from the new design. Porsche claims the new Turbo is capable of reaching 100km/h from rest in 3.4 seconds when equipped with the optional seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and Sport Chrono Package. Top speed is quoted at 312km/h (194mph).
Efficiency gains are a central part of the update. Porsche states that CO2 emissions are down by almost 18% compared to the outgoing model, with official fuel consumption figures of 11.4–11.7 litres per 100km (24.8–24.1mpg, EU5 standard), depending on specification. This puts the new Turbo well below the US gas guzzler tax threshold, an uncommon feat in its class.
Technical and dynamic improvements
The 2010 911 Turbo is available with Porsche’s seven-speed PDK transmission for the first time, offering faster gear changes and improved acceleration. Buyers can also specify a new three-spoke steering wheel with gearshift paddles, replacing the previous shift buttons. The Sport Chrono Package Turbo adds launch control and selectable driving modes, with dedicated displays for each steering wheel option.
Porsche has refined the car’s all-wheel-drive system (PTM) and stability management (PSM), and now offers Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) as an option. These changes are designed to improve agility and steering precision, further sharpening the Turbo’s handling characteristics. The new model is available in both Coupé and Cabriolet forms.
Pricing and market position
In Germany, the 2010 911 Turbo Coupé is priced from €145,871 including VAT and national specifications, while the Cabriolet starts at €157,057. The base prices before tax are €122,400 for the Coupé and €131,800 for the Cabriolet. Both models are positioned at the top of the 911 range, continuing Porsche’s tradition of offering the Turbo as its most capable all-rounder.
The new Turbo’s debut at Frankfurt puts it in direct competition with other high-performance sports cars unveiled at the show, and demonstrates Porsche’s commitment to combining outright speed with improved environmental credentials. For more on Porsche’s recent developments, see thefacelifted Porsche 911 spotted ahead of the Frankfurt show.
