For most car lovers, the Porsche 911 has always been the one. The unique model continues to set the standard for sports cars; it’s the very manifestation of automotive tradition, withholding layout changes, and encompassing extraordinary concepts. Soon Porsche will release the 2020 911, the 992, and all of the iconographic elements that come with it. What should consumers expect?
As part of Porsche’s Heritage Design Strategy, the newest 911 is set to re-interpret exclusive details from Porsche special editions dating back as early as the ’50s, with the cutting-edge technology new-age drivers desire. If we know the brand as well as we think we do, then we know that none of these special editions will be caught dead without matching timepieces, however, we’ll cover that later.
One of the 911 special editions, the Speedster, made its debut at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. At that show, we saw a drastically altered body style. The newest 911 model is not expected to bring forth the same detailed frame; instead, we will see familiar flourishes paying homage to the past—such as the vintage 1970’s Porsche emblem.
As we inch our way closer and closer to an automotive market that is purely electric, more manufacturers are feeling the pressure to convert their designs. Porsche automotive engineers are not fighting against the past. They aim to embrace their previous designs for the stylish icons that they are, which might end up serving them well as we inch toward a new age of electrification. Porsche models have always been unique, so why should they stop now?
For this reason, you will see the new 911 rolling in with a six-cylinder, twin-turbo 3.0L engine that can go from 0 to 60 in roughly 3 seconds—for the price of the new 911, these measures are truly iconic. There’s also no shortage of characteristic patterns within the interior, such as pepita or tartan, which results in the unique timepiece collection we previously expected.
The steering wheel sits perfectly centered to the driver, which is something Porsche has always done well. Premium leather materials are on almost every surface in the interior, giving the cabin a purposeful high-end feel. The digital information display offers all of the real-time information drivers need while in transit, such as tire pressure and driving data. The front trunk has enough space to fit a medium-sized suitcase, while the back seats offer fold-down capabilities, which is more than most 2-seater sports cars can say.
The build of the newest 911’s front track has also been widened by 1.8 inches, which increases overall handling. While a broad track can increase grip, so can differing wheel diameters. Since the ’70s, the front and rear wheel measures have always been the same. Porsche is looking to change that with this year’s model. The Carerra S and the Carerra 4S will feature 21-inch rear wheels and 20-inch wheels in the front. We are also expecting to see a weight increase in both models, which will make for an even, solid build.
With all of the above in mind, the original question remains: does the new 911 adequately maintain its superior reputation? From what we can see, it does.
Elise Gray 