Porsche 911 Targa 4 and 4S unveiled at 2014 Detroit show
Porsche revived the Targa with a modern take on its classic roof design, debuting the all-wheel-drive 911 Targa 4 and 4S at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show.
Porsche introduced the new 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show, bringing back the signature Targa roof with a modern twist. Both models feature all-wheel drive and a fully automatic roof system inspired by the original 1965 Targa, combining a removable front roof section with a wraparound rear window.
Return of the classic Targa roof
The 2014 911 Targa models mark a return to the original concept, with a prominent silver roll bar and a powered roof panel that stows behind the rear seats. The mechanism opens or closes in 19 seconds, but only while the car is stationary. This approach revives the classic Targa look while offering the convenience of a modern automated system.
Engines and performance
The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a 3.4-litre flat-six engine producing 350hp. With the optional PDK dual-clutch gearbox and Sport Chrono package, it accelerates from 0 to 60mph in 4.6 seconds. The top speed is 280km/h with PDK or 282km/h with the seven-speed manual.
The Targa 4S uses a 3.8-litre flat-six, delivering 400hp. It reaches 60mph in 4.2 seconds with PDK and Sport Chrono, and can achieve a top speed of 293km/h with PDK or 295km/h with the manual transmission. Both variants use Porsche’s all-wheel-drive system, making them the only Targa models in the 911 range to be offered exclusively with four-wheel drive at launch.
Position in the 911 range and pricing
At launch, the Targa 4 and 4S sit between the Carrera 4 Cabriolet and the 911 Turbo in the model line-up, offering a unique combination of open-air motoring and all-weather capability. Porsche announced US pricing from $101,600 for the Targa 4 and $116,200 for the Targa 4S. European pricing and UK availability were expected to follow, with deliveries beginning later in 2014.
Targa roof compared with Cabriolet and Coupe
| Model | Roof type | Operation | All-wheel drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| 911 Targa 4/4S | Powered Targa panel, fixed rear glass | Automatic, stationary only | Yes |
| 911 Cabriolet | Powered fabric roof | Automatic, moving up to low speeds | Available |
| 911 Coupe | Fixed metal roof | N/A | Available |
The Targa’s distinctive roof mechanism and styling set it apart from both the 911 Cabriolet and Coupe. Buyers seeking the classic Targa silhouette with the latest technology now have a dedicated option in the Porsche line-up. For the European debut of the 911 Targa, seePorsche 911 Targa Makes European Debut at Geneva Show.
