Porsche will introduce a heavily revised flagship model this September. The new 911 Turbo will be more powerful, kinder to the environment and have a 7-speed PDK gearbox available as an option.

The Stuttgart company has brought its mighty twin-turbo, 4wd model in line with the other cars in its range by going direct-injection coupled with a slight capacity increase (from 3.6 litres to 3.8 litres). As a result, CO2 emissions are reduced by almost 18 per cent and economy improved to 11.4 - 11.7ltr/100km (equal to 24.8 - 24.1mpg). That brings the car even further under the US ‘gas guzzler’ tax.

The introduction of the company’s 7-speed PDK transmission must be partly responsible for the reduction in C02. Despite the fitment as standard of a 'steering wheel with its proven shift buttons', Porsche has risen to what was universal criticism by offering a new, three-spoke wheel with ‘proper’ up- and down-paddles as an option, replacing the very un-intuitive switches seen before.

Performance is as strong as ever: acceleration to 62mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 194mph.

Various changes have been made to the transmission and engine management software so the new car should be even more rewarding to drive, with a more rear-biased power delivery safeguarded by revised PSM Porsche Stability Management.

The car will be launched the Frankfurt motor show on September 17 – 27. Sales will start in Germany on 21 November 2009, where the gross retail price (including national taxes) will start at 145,871 euros for the Coupé and 157,057 euros for the Cabriolet.

Text: Steve Wakefield
Photos: Porsche