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Top Gear’s Chris Harris Drives the Record-Setting Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR

The Guys at Manthey Racing Know What They’re Doing

The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is a sensational car, but add Manthey Racing to the end of the name of the car, and it becomes an even more of a beast of a machine. Manthey Racing takes the 911 GT2 RS and improves upon the chassis, aerodynamics, and brakes. This makes the car even better. As Chris Harris of Top Gear says in the video below, “Manthey makes the RS model even more RS.”

Harris gets the opportunity to drive the Manthey Racing GT2 RS at the Portimao Circuit in Portugal. During the day, Harris expresses his admiration for the car’s prowess on the race track praising the car’s smoothness and grip thanks to its suspension, tires, and improved aerodynamics. He went around the racetrack in Portugal two seconds faster in the 911 GT2 RS MR than he did in the McLaren P1.

One of the Porche racing and test drivers previously set a record at the Nürburgring in this car. It made it the fastest road-legal car to lap the Nürburgring. He also sets a record at Portimao Circuit on the day that Harris shoots the video. There’s a short interview well into the video that’s worth watching. You can check out the whole video below.

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April 4, 2019 / Comments Off

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2020 Porsche Cayenne Coupe

Porsche to Release Cayenne “Coupe” Late in 2019

If you hadn’t yet seen any pictures of this new Cayenne, you might be wondering if we would be talking about some 2-door-cross-utility version of Porsche’s largest SUV. At first glance of the photos, calling the upcoming Cayenne a “coupe” seems somewhat oxymoronic, because the Cayenne Coupe is still very much an SUV. In fact, Porsche says that the Coupe is mostly similar to the regular SUV, particularly on the inside.

Where the Coupe differs is through “an even more dynamic design and new technical details that position it as more progressive, athletic and emotional.” What that translates to most notably is the sloping rear hatch, with an adaptive roof and tailgate spoiler.

As is the case with the Turbo SUV, the spoilers are the beneficiary of Porsche Active Aerodynamics, and extend from the body by 135mm at speeds above 90 km/h. The aforementioned features give the Cayenne Coupe a silhouette much more alike to its smaller relative, the Macan. The Coupe will be available with either a panoramic glass roof or carbon roof option.

There will be two engines to choose from at launch: a 3.0L 355-horsepower turbo V6 or a 4.0L 545-horsepower twin-turbo V8 – both carried over from the current Cayenne lineup and which achieve 0-100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and 3.9 seconds, respectively.

Porsche plans to have the Cayenne Coupe in the hands of customers worldwide later this year, with pricing to start at $75,300 USD for the base car and all the way up to $200,000 USD for the most loaded version.
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April 3, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche 911 Turbo Prototype

Now ready for the taking is this Porsche 911 Turbo, dubbed as the most interesting prototype that’s been in private hands for many years. If you want to be more specific, this one’s the R-Program Type 993 Porsche built back in 1994, when the new model replaced the 964.

This particular model was pulled from the assembly line before receiving an engine and transmission. Then Porsche’s Racing and Technical Development took it in for various tests. There, they did various things. They put wider fender flares, for example. And also a special nose and rear-deck air spoilers.

After they finished testing, they sold the car through a Porsche dealer in Hofheim, Germany. But it was missing its engine and gearbox when it left the factory. Word has it that at the time, the engine was top secret. When the 993-generation Porsche 911 Turbo came out, the company sent the engine and gearbox, rounding out the entire ride.

This model is apparently one of the only development cars to survive. It comes in a gorgeous red leather interior complete with red carpeting. You’ll also find here Turbo “Twist” alloy wheels, a rear window wiper, air conditioning, and electric windows. Topping that off are 12-way electrically adjustable seats and a rear-seat delete with additional storage. Finally, there’s a nice little Blaupunkt Symphony entertainment system. Talk about vintage.

Porsche typically destroys cars not meant for mainstream sale. Which is why this model comes as a rare chance to own a piece of history almost obliterated from public view.

VISIT AUCTION HERE

Photos courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

April 2, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche Reveals Tidbits on 992 Generation 911 GT Models

Porsche Remains Focused on Continued Success of 911 GT Range

We are just a few months into the current generation of the Porsche 911 – dubbed the 992 – which inaugurated itself with the launch of the Carrera S and 4S models. Yet much of the hype surrounding the new car has been coming from the relative shroud of mystery regarding the inevitable release of the GT models.

As has been the tradition with previous generation 911s, GT models typically begin to appear a couple of years into the cycle, with various other iterations being presented as part of the GT range until the end of the generation. The 992 generation will follow the same template, with Porsche teasing that “many exciting and unexpected” models will be released in the new future.

Never one to rest on its laurels, Porsche has already been seen testing what appeared to be a GT3 prototype at the Nürburgring late last year. We are likely to see more test mules captured on spy shots as Porsche continues to prepare the proposed variety of GT models for production.

While remaining coy on the specifications of the GT cars – such as, whether we will see any naturally aspirated engines in the lineup – purists can breathe easy, with Porsche CEO Oliver Blume underlining that the 911 will retain an internal combustion engine, amid all the fanfare surround EVs as of late. There are no plans anywhere in the near future to divert from this, nor are there any thoughts being given to fully autonomous driving features – that’s Porsche, recognizing what makes a 911, a 911.
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April 1, 2019 / Comments Off

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2019 Porsche Taycan Nearing Production Phase

Porsche Taycan In Final Testing Phase Before September Reveal

The Porsche Taycan has rather quietly, become on of the most anticipated cars to come out of Stuttgart in a long time. The fully-electric car has the potential to be precedence-setting, both within the company itself as well as the broader automotive spectrum. When it was first unveiled as the Porsche Mission E back in 2015, little details were given, and its silhouette has evolved drastically since officially becoming known as the Taycan in 2018.

Taking place over multiple countries and continents, the Taycan’s world tour has hardly been a vacation for the car or Porsche engineers. The Taycan has undergone rigorous testing in the highest extremes of our planet’s environment, being put through a gauntlet of trials in temperatures ranging from -35 to +50 degrees Celsius.

Thorough considerations are being given to all of the Taycan’s metrics, from its driving dynamics to the performance of its batteries. Once the final testing phase is completed, Porsche states that the Taycan will have gone through well over 100,000 charging cycles using the full range of compatible charging options.

In spite of such grueling conditions, Porsche is buoyed by its findings. In an official press release, Stefan Weckbach (Head of BEV at Porsche) noted that several millions of real-world miles have been recorded as part of these tests.

“After carrying out computer simulations and comprehensive bench tests early on, we have now reached the final phase of this demanding testing programme. Before the Taycan is launched on the market at the end of the year, we will have covered approximately six million kilometers across the globe. We are already very happy with the current status of the vehicles. The Taycan is going to be a true Porsche.” he elaborated.

In a future that most automotive manufactures anticipate will be dominated by EVs, the Taycan is Porsche’s first real statement for that cause. Though this is a very forward thinking approach, Porsche fans can be appeased by the company’s commitment to maintain its core values and respect for heritage. Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Porsche executive board proclaims “Even with solely battery-powered sports cars, Porsche is remaining true to its philosophy and offering our customers the sportiest and technologically most sophisticated model in this market segment.”

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April 1, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche 911 GT2 RS Sets New Fastest Lap at Road Atlanta

Porsche Targeting Production Car Lap Records Away From the ‘Ring

While the Nürburgring unarguably remains the de facto proving grounds for automakers to test the mettle of their performance halos, Porsche is also looking to conquer some of the most iconic North American racetracks with its production-spec 911 GT2 RS.

Late in 2017, a then-new Porsche 911 GT2 RS set the production car lap record at the ‘Ring but would have to fend off the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ in the title race by reclaiming victory in the later part of 2018.

Fast forward to a new year – and a new continent – where Porsche is now the away-team, with fixtures to take place at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Willow Springs International Raceway and Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

Porsche has released footage (embedded below) of the 1:24.88 lap time set by the GT2 RS at Road Atlanta on March 26, 2019, which beat previous production car record holder – the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – which achieved a 1:26.45 in 2018.

The 2.54-mile road course is located just 60 miles from Porsche’s U.S. headquarters in Atlanta and is “… a track that holds so many great memories for Porsche, such as the overall victory with the 911 RSR at Petit Le Mans in 2015,” said Klaus Zellmer, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America.

Race drivers Randy Pobst and David Donohue shared driving duties for the day, with Pobst – having the honor of setting the fastest and record-breaking lap – remarking of his experience “Even for a professional driver, huge power can be intimidating. But when I drive the GT2 RS, the massive torque feels completely under my control, so useable, because the car is extremely well-balanced. It is very confidence inspiring, a pleasure”.

We will continue to keep you apprised of the Porsche 911 GT2 RS as it continues its trailblazing tour in America!

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April 1, 2019 / Comments Off

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This Porsche 357 Speedster Study Is the Porsche You Didn’t Know You Needed

The Future of the Porsche Speedster

If there’s one thing you need in your life in the future, it’s this Porsche 357 Speedster. The rendering comes from Clement Lacour and hints at what the future of the Porsche speedster could be. It’s absolutely gorgeous, and we hope Porsche takes it into serious consideration.

Lacour looked to the past to make a car for the future. The 357 Speedster he created takes cues from the original Porsche Speedster and the Porsche 356. The car is extremely smooth with bulging fender flares and some seriously sensual curves. It somehow blends the past, present, and future of automotive styling together into one absolutely stunning car.

The speedster vehicle type has been making a bit of a comeback in the last couple of years. We can point to the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 as the first two examples, and most recently the Lister Knobbly that we profiled a little while back. Both bring the classic speedster style back into the modern limelight.

Demand for special one-off cars has risen in recent years, and if there was a one-off speedster that we would love to see make it into the world, it would be one like this. If we can’t have a one-off, we want a production model, but we doubt that would happen. Still, it’s nice to look at this 357 Speedster and talk about what could be. Hopefully, Porsche is listening.

April 1, 2019 / Comments Off

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The Next Porsche Hypercar Might Be An EV and Involve Rimac

The 918 Successor Would Sit Atop the Lineup

Porsche’s 918 successor is in the works, but it’s a long way from coming out even in concept form. The team is still deliberating on how to make the vehicle and what it should be. According to CEO Oliver Blume in a recent interview with Top Gear, the car could be a fully electric model.

“It has to be the best in the market, the highest performing… right now we haven’t got a concept for that car. But might it be a pure-electric car? Yes,” he said.

Porsche is not unfamiliar with EV technology and fully electric cars by any means. The all-electric Taycan is coming out in September, and it’s adding EV and hybrid versions of many of its models in the future. The Taycan is pretty much already a success with over 20,000 customers placing a roughly $2,800 deposit for the car. As long as it’s as good as it looks, Porsche’s future may be electric.

According to Top Gear, Porsche is kicking around the idea of making the next generation Cayenne all-electric. This could depend on where solid-state battery technology is at that time. That type of battery technology is expected to push electric cars to the next level.

March 26, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche Cayenne Coupe: The 911 of SUVs

With the Cayenne, Porsche has invented the sporty SUV. But the SUV coupe was invented by BMW – more than a decade ago, with the X6. Since then, BMW has taken the concept one class below, with the X4, and Mercedes-Benz has followed with the GLE Coupe and GLC Coupe. Even Audi has launched a sporty SUV – in the form of the Q8. But now Porsche wants to best them all – with the new Cayenne Coupe, which launches tonight.

Porsche has kept the sporty front end of the regular Cayenne intact, the differences begin with the A-pillar: The windshield has a lower angle, the roof describes a graceful arch and ends in a relatively low tail. The rear doors and fenders are pushed out to cover a wider track. And the side windows are shaped like the 911’s, even though the Cayenne Coupe is a four-door SUV.

Porsche Cayenne Coupe

The overall effect is successful, almost spectacular. Visually, there is not a sportier SUV on the road. The Cayenne Coupe oozes 911-ness and brand heritage.

Despite its relatively low-slung looks, there is plenty of interior space. In fact, rear headroom is virtually identical with the regular Cayenne. You sit perfectly in all four seats (a regular three-seat rear bench can be specified, too), and the trunk shrinks just moderately.

But to achieve this much space while keeping a beautiful silhouette, Porsche has resorted to three tricks: First, the rear seats are now fixed in a slightly lower position instead of laterally moveable. And second, the Cayenne Coupe actually features a somewhat bulbous roof. But this fact is masked, because it appears glossy black: A vast panoramic glass roof is standard – and a glossy carbon-fiber roof is available as part of a very attractive light-weight sport package. Thirdly, there is a very prominent roof spoiler that actually has purely cosmetic function.

The spoiler that’s actually functional sits lower: The area above the taillights can rise up like on the 992 or the Panamera, and it’s graced with a slim Gurney flap. And it is needed because this is an extremely fast SUV. Even the standard version, powered by a 340-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6, can manage 243 kph. The top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo Coupe is fitted with a 550-horsepower 4.0-liter V-8 for a 0-100 kph sprint in 3.9 seconds and a 286 kph top speed.

Porsche Cayenne Coupe

Down the road, Porsche will offer a Cayenne S Coupe with a 440-horsepower 2.9-liter V-6, and there will be both a V-6 hybrid with 462 horsepower and a V-8 hybrid with at least 680 horsepower, like on the Panamera. Sadly, there will be no diesel. Originally, the Cayenne was supposed to be offered with a V-6 and a V-8 diesel, before the brand’s questionable decision to kill all diesels and emphasize electrics.

The Cayenne Coupe models will come to market in Europe in mid-May; the US will have to wait until mid-October. Prices in Germany are 83 711 and 146 662 euros for the regular and the Turbo models; the US prices are USD 75 300 and 130 100, respectively. Considering the Sport Chrono package, large wheels, the panoramic glass roof and a few other goodies are standard on the coupe, the decision whether to opt for a regular Cayenne or a Coupe amounts to a matter of taste. For us, the choice would be clear. This is the 911 of SUVs.

March 21, 2019 / Comments Off

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Watch Chris Harris Hustle the Porsche 919 Around a Racetrack

Harris Looks Genuinely Amazed

The Porsche 919 is the amazing hybrid Le Mans-winning car that the company recently retired from racing. Top Gear’s Chris Harris was lucky enough to have a chance to take the car for a spin around Cuidad Del Motor De Aragon in Spain. He also took a look behind the scenes of the car to see the nitty-gritty details, too.

The Porsche 919 Hybrid is an amazing vehicle. It pairs a 2.0-liter V4 engine that makes 500 hp with an electric motor that adds another 400 hp. Add to all that some serious aerodynamic treatment, computer power management systems that help with power assist and torque vectoring, and you’ve got one of the most amazing cars ever built.

Before Harris was allowed to drive the 919 on the Spanish racetrack, he had to spend some time in a simulator. The simulator looks like an awesome giant video game. Most car enthusiasts dream video game. However, Harris claims it isn’t a fun place to be. The simulator looks amazingly real, though.

After that, Harris goes over the 919 EVO, which Porsche is using to try to beat track lap times around the world. The EVO is a souped-up version of the regular 919 and roughly makes an amazing 1,200 hp in a car that weighs about 1,940 pounds. That’s an insane power-to-weight ratio.

Then Harris gets out on the racetrack. The 919 looks like a true force. You can tell in the video that the electronics are picking up the slack and allowing for faster speeds. Harris says it feels like the car is “doing more thinking around the lap than me.”

The advanced electronics systems make adjustments to the car to compensate for the driver. This allows corners to be taken faster and boost applied when necessary. It’s a lot of fun to watch. Check out the video below.

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March 18, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche to Celebrate the 917 Turning 50 With Concept

Porsche Says it’s Purely a Concept Study

The Porsche 917 was a dominant force in motorsports in the 70s, and now it turns 50. As it does, the company thought the best way to honor the car was to create the 917 concept car you see shown above. It also decided to restore some 917s and showcase them at the celebration ceremony at the Porsche Museum in Germany.

The museum will hold a special exhibition titled “Colours of Speed – 50 Years of the 917.” It will showcase the historic car in all its glory as well as the new concept. The company has put together 14 different exhibits as part of the museum’s showcase. Of those exhibits, 10 of them will be of restored 917s, including the very first one ever to be built.

The red and white 917 concept car will be on display next to the historic cars. Porsche insists it is solely a concept study, but it looks too good to just be a concept. We’d love to see the car as a competition model. That, however, is doubtful. In addition to the concept car and the historic, restored cars, Porsche has many different items that will help demonstrate the impact of the 917 on the motorsport world, including some technical exhibits and several posters and products for sale.

We’re glad to see Porsche going to such lengths to honor one of its most amazing cars of all time. However, we’d love to see the concept move beyond this simple presentation. We want to see it become a real car due to the fact that it’s absolutely amazing to look at, and we imagine if Porsche finished it, it would be amazing to drive, too.

March 11, 2019 / Comments Off

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Makellos Classics 1978 Porsche 911SC ‘Safari’ Is a Tough-Looking, Beautiful Work of Art

A True Head Turner

We included a car from Makellos Classics in a list of our favorite Porsche custom cars in 2018, so when we were alerted of their most recent build we were pretty excited. The team at Makellos Classics got its hands on a European-spec 1978 Porsche 911SC. They knew just what to do with it, and the Safari build began.

The team went through the entire car updating the frame, suspension, transmission, engine, wheels, brakes, and interior. Makellos Classics customized the car wherever needed to build it into the Safari vehicle of your dreams. It added 9eleven Raven S headlights, hood-mounted Cibie rally driving lights, a vintage-style roof rack, fiberglass ducktail spoiler, and so much more.

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The 1978 Porsche 911SC ‘Safari’ is as much a piece of art as it is a true off-road hooligan. As you can see in the video above, the car looks amazing, but its performance matches up to those looks. Makellos Classics didn’t design and build this car to be just a showroom piece, and it didn’t cheap out on spare any expense in the name of excellence. The car is a fantastic example of what a 1978 911SC can become with considerable skill, good planning, and a true vision.

To learn more about the specifics of the build, check it out on Makellos Classics website. While there, you can see some of the company’s other builds and services. While the Safari build is the most recent one that caught our eye, there’s plenty more to see. You can also check out the gallery of images for this specific build below.

March 1, 2019 / Comments Off

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Leak Provides an Early Look at the Porsche 992 Turbo

A leaked image has given us our first look at the Porsche 992 Turbo. It is believed that this photo shows the new Porsche 992 Turbo on the production line at the Porsche factory. The source of the images is unclear yet the Turbo air intakes and quad exhaust tailpipes are a giveaway!

We weren’t expecting Porsche to release the new Turbo until September, possibly at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2019. Seeing (almost) fully exposed photos in February, leaked from the factory, seems very premature!

Porsche only recently released the 992 generation of the Porsche 911. It debuted at the Los Angeles Motor Show 2019 last November. The Cabriolet has recently been released and we weren’t expecting a great deal more until the launch of the entry-level Carrera 2 and Carrera 4 Coupe and Cabriolet in a few months.

The Turbo is usually the most powerful version of the ‘normal’ 911’s. The version before we get to the GT3 and RS models. There is very little information about what powers the 992 Turbo at the moment.

The photo shows the rear section of the car with the tell-tale 992 rear lights. Atop the rear decklid sits a spoiler. The photo isn’t entirely clear but this looks larger than the outgoing model. The bodywork is wider and the rear end gets a set of narrow quad tailpipes.

February 21, 2019 / Comments Off

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2020 Porsche 911 Turbo Leaked

The Images Look Straight from the Assembly Line

Here’s your first look at the 2020 Porsche 911 Turbo (992). The leak comes from an Instagram user named t_schleicher. Schleicher’s image provides what appears to be a very clear look of the upcoming car. It’s a gorgeous-looking version of the 911, and we’re more excited now than ever for it.

It’s easy to tell this is the new version of the 911, and if you compare it to the spy shots that are out there for the 911 Turbo, it looks like this could definitely be the real thing. As Carscoops notes, it has the squared-off quad exhaust tips, a unique rear bumper, and the rear wing seen in the test cars.

As far as powertrain options go, there’s not a whole lot of specific information out there. It will likely be a turbocharged version of the 3.8-liter flat-six engine. Carscoops suggests it could get as much as 600 hp, but that’s total speculation.

Past reports on the upcoming car indicated there would be electrified versions of the 911 eventually. Motor1 reported that wouldn’t come until 2022. An electrified 911 might sound like sacrilege to some, but with hybrid supercars looking to be the future, it’s really not a big shocker. Motor1 also reports the possibility of two hybrid variants. One could sit down by the Carrera while the other would sit higher in the lineup next to the 911 Turbo.

It will be interesting to see how the 911 Turbo is once Porsche officially releases photos and information about it. In the meantime, we’ll start at the image above and imagine what’s yet to come.

February 21, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche Taycan GT3 Rendering Looks Awesome

Hopefully, Porsche Pays Attention

The Porsche Taycan will come to the market as one of the company’s most highly-anticipated models ever. It’s an important car, too. It has a fully electric powertrain and the rumors say 600 hp. It will have a range of around 310 miles and can charge up to 248 miles worth of its battery in just 15 minutes.

According to Autoweek, its 0-60 mph time should be 3.5 seconds and 124 mph should come in a quick 14 seconds. Not good enough? What about a GT3 version? A new rendering from Porsche Taycan EV Forum shows what the model could look like. It’s stunning, and if Porsche is paying attention it should take note.

Will There be a Taycan GT3?

The Taycan will debut later this year, and when it does Porsche will have three versions of the vehicle. The Taycan, Taycan 4S, and Taycan Turbo. Because the vehicle is a fully electric machine and therefore can’t have turbos, we’re not really sure why Porsche will call one of the versions the Turbo.

The Turbo designation will likely just be for the higher-performance model. However, it seems that Porsche could have just come up with a different name, one that would have made sense. Anyway, the Taycan should be a riot on the road with that kind of horsepower, and it will show what Porsche plans to do as cars transition away from fossil fuels.

With all that said, I sincerely hope the company chooses to make a GT3 version of the Taycan, and when that happens, I hope it looks as good as the rendering shown above. The model gets a revised front end with a new splitter, front fascia, and grille. The rear has a big wing on it. It looks fantastic, and with the interest in this model Porsche should consider something like it.

January 28, 2019 / Comments Off

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Details on the New Porsche 911 GT3 RS Emerge

Get Ready for the Most Track-Capable GT3 RS Yet

Porsche is prepared to make the 992 version of the 911 GT3 RS the best it has ever been. According to Wheels magazine, quoted on Which Car the vehicle will be more of an evolutionary change rather than a revolution for the vehicle. Talking with 911 product line chief August Achleitner Wheels was able to get confirmation that Porsche won’t mess with the basic formula for the GT3 RS.

That means the car will still be rear-wheel drive, have a high-revving naturally aspirated engine, and be extremely lightweight. The engine will be similar to the 4.0-liter flat-six engine in the current car. However, it may receive a displacement bump. Despite the increase in cubic centimeters, the car will likely still car the engine a 4.0-liter, according to Achleitner.

As far as transmissions go, the car will get the 7-speed PDK. A manual will be optional, too. This should help the GT3 RS keep weight down rather than going with the heavier 8-speed automatic at Porsche’s disposal. Keeping the car lightweight, Porsche will also employ plenty of carbon fiber and a magnesium roof.

Which Car notes that the focus of the new GT3 RS will be aerodynamics. The goal will be to increase both the possible top speed and cornering speed. Achleitner told Wheels the car would come with the latest technology, too. It would be available through the two 7-inch displays in the new car. The information displayed could be tailored to track use, giving the driver up-to-date data whenever he or she wants it. Sounds like the upcoming GT3 RS will be a real winner.

January 23, 2019 / Comments Off

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2019 Porsche 718 T Cayman & Boxster Revealed

Porsche Reveals 2019 718 Cayman T, 718 Boxster T

With the introduction of the 2019 718 Cayman T and Boxster T, it is clear that Porsche has taken a page out of the 911 playbook – and to great effect. The 911 T, which was released early in 2018, is a no-frills, purists version of the 911. In short, it is a spartan, stripped down version of the base-model Carrera, sparingly equipped with only the equipment necessary to create a completely driver-focused 911.

The warm reception of the aforementioned car has convinced Porsche that they should apply this philosophy to their 718 lineup as well, also proving that Porsche appreciates and listens to its customers. This is not just good for public relations, but it is also good for business – a touring version of the affordable 718, truly means that this is a Porsche sports car for the masses.

Features and Highlights

Engine and Performance

Both the Cayman T and Boxster T will be equipped with the base-model 718’s mid-mounted 2.0L flat-four turbocharged engine, which produces 300-horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

The 718 T will come standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox, and buyers will also have the option of outfitting the car with a PDK transmission. Respectively, the car will sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds in the manual and 4.5 seconds in the PDK version’s Sport Plus mode, while top speed is 170 mph.

Chassis and Handling

As a result if its inherent philosophy, an un-optioned 718 T will weigh in at 1,350 kg, making it the lightest version in the lineup. The chassis is also 20mm lower to the ground than the base-model it has stripped down, and sits on lightweight 20” high-gloss titanium grey wheels.

In continuing to stay true to its word, the 718 T is equipped strictly with features that enhance the driving experience through a purist’s field of view. The 6-speed manual version of either car will come standard with Porsche Torque Vectoring and a mechanical locking rear axle differential. For the first time, Porsche Active Suspension Management is available (and in this case, also standard) on a 718, with the latest Cayman and Boxster now able to benefit from this state-of-the-art the electronic damping system.

Interior and Exterior

Inside the cockpit is a seamless continuation of the no-frills principles of the “T”, with door pull straps replacing the door handles, a leather-wrapped 360-millimeter GT sports steering wheel and two-way adjustable sport seats. My only surprise here is that the seats aren’t cloth, as leather doesn’t seem to buy into the ideals of spartan-ism so much – oh well.

Furthermore, the Porsche Communication Management module isn’t standard and a storage bin takes its spot instead. Adding it back is actually a no charge option, should you feel the need to restore a sense of relative convenience in the car. Other features that come standard are agate grey mirror shells, a shorter-throw gearbox, and Sport Chrono package (with the dashboard-mounted stopwatch included).

The 718 T will be visually differentiated from its stable-mates with retro-style graphics on each side of the car. To truly stand out, in addition to the standard palette, buyers can also opt for special-edition Lava Orange and Miami Blue paint jobs which are exclusive to the 718 T.

Verdict

I believe that the Porsche 718 T is a car we can all get excited for – and by all, I really mean everyone. With official pricing expected to start in the $60,000 USD range, the scenario of owning a true sports car – a Porsche sports car – is very attainable. In an age where large SUVs and crossovers address the necessities of today’s society and lifestyles, the 718 T opens the door for the midlife crisis to happen sooner than originally thought.

Similar to the 911 T, the 718 T will not be the fastest, most luxurious or even the cheapest of all the 718 variants. However, the car is a unique combination of features and nuances that add up to more than the sum of its parts. The T-wins are the perfect car for somebody who knows exactly what they want, and wants nothing more than that – the purist’s car.

Kudos to Porsche for continuing to take the words of their customers and fans to heart.

2019 Porsche 718 T Cayman Image Gallery

January 10, 2019 / Comments Off

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Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport Breaks Cover

A Track-Only Model to Thrill You

Prepared by Porsche Motorsports, the new 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport is a track car that offers supreme performance chops. Porsche offers it in two forms: the “Trackday” model for amateur racers and the “Competition” model for national and international racing.

The Cayman GT4 Clubsport features natural-fiber composite material. This is a first of any production race car ever to use natural-fiber. Porsche crafted the doors and rear wing from an organic fiber mix. The company makes this mix from a unique blend of agricultural products. This gives the composite similar characteristics to carbon fiber.

Around the back of the vehicle is the 3.8-liter flat-six engine that powers the car. It makes 425 hp, which is a boost of 40 hp from previous models.

The Trackday version of the car gets non-adjustable shock absorbers; ABS, ESC, and traction control settings that are more forgiving; air conditioning; and some additional safety features. Porsche equipped the Competition model with three-stage adjustable shocks, 115-liter safety fuel tank, adjustable brake balance, integrated air-jack system, automatic fire extinguisher system, and a quick release racing steering wheel.

Both versions of the cars are available for order now and can be shipped anywhere in the world. The Trackday version starts at 134,000 Euro (about $152,000). The Competition version starts at 157,000 Euro (about $178,000).

January 4, 2019 / Comments Off

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2019 Panamera GTS Sport Turismo

The 2019 Porsche four-door Panamera is getting a huge upgrade in the form of its very own GTS Sport Turismo variant. The ride, boasting a 4-liter twin-turbo V8, has 20 more horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque than the standard model. It also features Porsche’s dual-clutch PDK transmission.

That means an acceleration of zero to 60 in just 4.1 seconds, with eight gears sending power to all four wheels. You can opt for the Sport Chrono Package to boost acceleration even further to zero to 60 in just 3.9 seconds. On top of that, you’re also getting an active air suspension with a reworked Active Suspension Management system. Plus a 10mm lower ride height and larger brakes on the front and rear. And don’t even worry about speed because this thing is fast. The top track speed is 179mph.

There’s also a new HUD system available inside, in addition to Alcantara-trimmed interior with aluminum accents throughout, giving the inside of the car a classic yet badass feel. Two models are available, the Panamera GTS and GTS Sport Turismo. Both models carry the SportsDesign package as standard, complete with distinctive front and rear fascia.

The adaptive rear spoiler of the Panamera GTS splits after extending, which in turn makes it much broader and ensures the lift in the rear axle is efficiently reduced. The GTS Turismo, on the other hand, features an adaptive roof spoiler to ensure exceptional driving stability. You can even opt for “GTS” logos on the lower edge of the front doors to complete the overall sporty look.

LEARN MORE HERE

January 1, 2019 / Comments Off

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2019 Porsche Cayenne Review: A Proper Porsche, and One You’ll Pay For

The Cayenne is Porsche’s larger mid-size luxury SUV. For its third generation, the self-described “sports car for five” has gotten lighter, faster, and more performance-inclined to distinguish itself from external competitors and similar internal competitors like the Audi Q8 and the Porsche Macan S.

The Good: Porsche designed it. Quick for an SUV. Excellent balance and low center of gravity. Responsive steering. Intuitive transmission. Notably comfortable front seats.

Who It’s For: Affluent SUV buyers who want Porsche cachet and performance. Perhaps a one-car Porsche enthusiast whose kids have outgrown the 911’s rear seat.

Watch Out For: Engine noise underwhelms. Standard suspension feels tight. The option tree gets pricey and borderline exploitative.

Alternatives: Other high-end European performance geared SUVs in this general price range include:
• Range Rover Sport ($67,050, base)

• Audi Q8 ($67,400, base)

• BMW X5 ($60,700, base)

Review: The thing about driving a Porsche around Napa for a day is you can’t describe it as work. Social mores mandate at least a knowing smirk when you say that. We all know why. Porsche means premium, precisely engineered, and damn near perfect. When Porsche needed to redefine the Cayenne for its third generation (and differentiate it from its Audi Q8 cousin using the same MLB platform and engine) the answer was to play up just how much of a Porsche this midsize SUV is.

Porsche made the Cayenne more athletic. The SUV has gotten lighter (down 120lbs) from the last generation. The new 3.0L Turbo V6 in the base model generates more power (+35hp) and torque (37lb-ft) than the last model. Getting lighter, more powerful, and having the driving dynamics improved makes it faster. Every iteration of the Cayenne will do 0-60mph in under six seconds.

Porsche wants the Cayenne to look more like a Porsche. Truth be told, it looks similar to Gen 2. But, Porsche wants the wide shoulders to remind you of the 911’s characteristic, much fawned over back end. The new Cayenne also incorporates a number of performance features from other Porsches. It has staggered front and rear wheels, replacing the predecessor’s square alignment. It can be fitted with rear axle steering and launch control. The Cayenne will be the first Porsche fitted with proprietary Porsche Surface Coated Brakes (PSCB). These deliver most of the benefits of ceramics, cost much less, and leave a boss mirror finish.

Upping the Porsche quotient (surprise, surprise) produces an engaging SUV to drive. The Cayenne is quick. It is well-balanced. The steering is responsive. It has a low center of gravity and an impressive amount of grip. The transmission intuits what the driver wants seamlessly. It’s a keen corner taker. It behaves when bottled up behind a Subaru on a two-line highway. About the only criticism is the engine note which was either too mild or too mild to puncture the noise canceling glass.

Rest assured. Porsche did not go full-on “SAV” here. The Cayenne is still an SUV. The grab bag of Porsche sports car features available did not include the PDK transmission, because Porsche believes its 8-Speed Tiptronic is better for off-roading and towing. The Cayenne has multiple off-road terrain settings. The closest we got to testing them was ducking into a scenic roadside lookout for pictures.

The Adaptive Air Suspension is worth the expense. The standard one felt very tight and unforgiving on our morning tester with 21-inch wheels. The air suspension gives a smoother and more composed ride. Even when the car is being pushed, the copilot can settle into a notably comfy front seat for a post-lunch snooze.

I would lean toward taking the PSCB brakes as well. I found them too touchy starting out at slow speed. I missed how easily they stopped the car when I didn’t have them. The standard brakes are adequate. The PCSBs, as they should be for the cost, are better and look cool.

I didn’t futz with the infotainment system too much. The Cayenne has dual customizable 7-inch displays behind the wheel and a 12.3-inch tablet screen in the center. The design was clean. Menu progression was natural. I wish the big screen had been angled toward the driver slightly more.

Where the Cayenne offers the truest Porsche experience is when you reach for the checkbook. Porsche makes nearly everything, including many features most luxury cars would make standard, options. Those options get expensive in a hurry. Embark with me on a quick configurator journey.

Let’s add the air suspension ($4160) and the PSCB brakes ($3490). The latter require you to upgrade to at least 20 inch wheels ($1720 minimum). That alone is approaching $10,000. You probably want adaptive cruise control ($2000) and lane change assist ($950) on your kid transporter. Sunroof? That’s an additional ($1850). Want your car to remember your seat settings ($1900) and heat up during the winter? ($530 for just the front).

Does the performance stuff intrigue you? The Sport Chrono package for launch control and sport plus driving mode ($1130) is a must have. There’s the rear-axle steering ($1650) Do you plan to use your Cayenne for SUV stuff? That will be an additional off-road package ($2000) and tow rig ($660). Yeah, I dig that Biscay Blue Metallic paint ($800) too. This stuff only scratches the surface of the customization options.

Our lightly outfitted, base model tester vehicles were pricing out north of $80,000 for what, reminder, is the third best engine you can have in a Cayenne. That price tag factors into the perception. The Cayenne provides a great drive for an SUV. It’s an all-around, capable, and fun car. It’s recognizable as a Porsche. It’s more than a profitable placeholder in the Porsche lineup. But, an $80,000-plus or more car should have some outstanding quality that makes that expenditure feel justified. However improved or formidable, the Cayenne in the base trim doesn’t.

The Cayenne will be more than enough SUV for most buyers. Porsche will sell a number of them. The cachet from that Porsche emblem alone will keep many Cayenne customers happy. It better, because they are paying a steep premium for it.

Verdict: The Cayenne is a proper Porsche. It’s top notch engineering. It performs just about every task well. It will be more than enough for most buyers. But, a near $90,000 car, SUV or no, should give you the giggles. It should have one exceptional quality that excites you about spending that much money. The Cayenne didn’t.

What Others Are Saying:

• “It took Porsche 53 years to sell a million 911s. Porsche has sold 770,000 Cayennes in the 15 years since it was launched in 2002, and the millionth will probably be built in about three years. As much as we love and cherish the sports cars from Stuttgart, Porsche in the 21st century is the house that the Cayenne SUV built.” – Tony Quiroga, Car and Driver

• “If you’re willing to pay the premium, though, the new Cayenne delivers precisely what cargo-hauling Porsche fanboys consistently insist they want: an SUV that satisfies the sport part of the equation while offering a level of functionality and people-moving they can’t get in a 911 or 718. – Basem Wasef, Autoblog

2019 Porsche Cayenne Key Specs

Engine: 3.0L Turbo V6
Transmission: 8-Speed Tiptronic
Horsepower: 335hp
Torque: 332lb-ft
Weight: 4,377 lbs
0-60: 5.6sec (with Sport Chrono package)
Top Speed: 152mph

Porsche hosted us and provided this product for review.

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December 17, 2018 / Comments Off

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