Porsche Cars Australia has announced pricing for the upgraded 997 911 models, including PDK-equipped Carrera coupe and cabrio and Targa versions. But prospective buyers best factor in extra for a price increase plus the 'will-we-won't-we' LCT hike.
Pricing for the new 911 was announced at the launch this month; inclusive of the Government's proposed 33 per cent Luxury Car Tax levy. However, the company re-released pricing inclusive of the LCT at 25 per cent earlier this week (see below), after the bill was defeated in the Senate last week (more here).
Latest word is that all car dealers must continue to collect the LCT at 33 per cent. Shortly following the bill's defeat, Senate leader Chris Evans declared the Government will reinstate legislation for 33 per cent LCT when the Senate resumes next week. If you're confused then join the club -- 'luxury' car dealers across the country are unsure of what price they should be charging.
No confusion about the details underpinning the new Carrera and Carrera S, and the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and 4S models, however. Exterior-wise the update includes redesigned side mirrors, rear LED lights and larger front air scoops. According to Porsche the redesigned scoops have increased cooling by 20 per cent.
Most significant changes are under the skin, however. In addition to meeting or exceeding Euro V emission requirements (not due in force in Europe until September 2009), both the Carrera's 3.6-litre flat six-cylinder engine and the Carrera S model's 3.8-litre unit have received power and torque upgrades.
Now using direct fuel-injection, the engines are rated at 254kW/390Nm (3.6-litre) and 283kW/420Nm (3.8-litre); up from 239kW/370Nm and 261kW/400Nm.
Despite the increase, Porsche claims the new 911 is greener, offering up to 12.9 per cent greater fuel economy (depending on model). For example fuel consumption is improved for the manual Carrera models at 10.3L/100km , or 9.8L/100km for the PDK-equipped version. The company says CO2 emissions are also down, by up to 15.4 per cent.
The all-wheel drive Carrera 4 models are a touch thirstier, but nonetheless improved on their predecessors.
Bigger news still is Porsche's new PDK double-clutch transmission; available for all (coupe and cabrio) 911 models at a price premium of $6600. The new 911 is the first production car from the maker to use such a transmission, 20 years after first appearing on the racetrack.
Porsche says the PDK-equipped Carreras are faster than the manual versions: the 3.6-litre Carrera's 0-100km time is reduced by two-tenths (to 4.7sec) with the PDK, while the Carrera S does the sprint in 4.5sec (compared to 4.7sec) if fitted with the dual-clutch transmission.
The PDK-equipped Carrera 4 and 4S models dispatch the same standing start sprint in 4.8 and 4.5sec respectively -- a useful 0.8sec faster than the outgoing Tiptronic versions.
All 911s can be ordered with Porsche's Sports Chrono package, with additional Launch Control function. PDK equipped 911s with Sports Chrono feature “a special gearshift strategy” which offers quick downshift if the driver 'stabs' the accelerator in auto mode. The option package also adds a further 'Sports Plus' setting for 'maximum attack' track use when the PDK system is in full manual.
The 3.6-litre models are fitted standard with the same diameter brake discs as the 3.8-litre Carrera S models; using 330mm front and rear. The 3.8-litre models get thicker front discs, however, at 34mm (compared to the Carrera's 28mm versions).
For the new Carrera 4 models, Porsche has adapted and modified the electronically controlled 'Porsche Traction Management' system (PTM) from the 911 Turbo to replace the viscous multi-plate clutch all-wheel-drive system fitted to the superseded Carrera 4 models. The company claims improved stability, traction and handling from the new drive system, which complements the rear limited-slip differential.
Adaptive cornering lights, which Porsche calls 'Dynamic Bending Lights' are a new option and other changes include a touch-screen to interface with navigation, information and audio systems in the new Porsche Communication Management facility. PCM now provides Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio and iPod compatibility.
The all-wheel drive Targa models feature their trademark panoramic glass roof and upward-lifting rear window. Specification matches the Carrera models, including 18-inch wheels, high-end brake package, MacPherson front suspension and multilink for the rear, but add $20K-plus for the Targa.
Look out for our local launch review of the Carrera 4 and 4S soon or to read our international launch review of the Carrera 2 and 2S click here.
Porsche 997 911 Range
Carrera Coupe $210,300 (manual) $216,900 (PDK)
Carrera S Coupe $237,500 (manual) $244,100 (PDK)
Carrera Cabriolet $231,200 (manual) $237,800 (PDK)
Carrera S Cabriolet $258,400 (manual) $265,000 (PDK)
Carrera 4 Coupe $226,500 (manual) $233,100 (PDK)
Carrera 4S Coupe $253,700 (manual) $260,300 (PDK)
Carrera 4 Cabriolet $247,400 (manual) $254,000 (PDK)
Carrera 4S Cabriolet $274,600 (manual) $281,200 (PDK)
Targa 4 $247,400 (manual) $254,000 (PDK)
Targa 4S $274,600 (manual) $281,200 (PDK)
Pricing based on 25 per cent LCT
» Watch the Carsales Network's video on Porsche driving aids (PTM and PDK) here
To comment on this article click here