The Porsche 911 lineup is expanding as the company
has taken the wraps off the entry-level Carrera Coupe and Convertible. Set to arrive in the United
States early next year, the models are powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter
six-cylinder engine that produces 379 hp and 449
Nm of torque. The engine is connected to a standard eight-speed PDK
transmission which enables the coupe to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in
four seconds flat. With the optional Sport Chrono Package, that time drops to
just 3.8 seconds.
The Convertible is a tad slower as the dash from 0-96 km/h takes 4.2 seconds, and 4.0 seconds with the Sport Chrono
Package. The top speed is also 290 km/h, which makes it 3
km/h slower than the Coupe.
On the styling front, there isn’t much to report as
the models closely echo their Carrera S and 4S counterparts. However, the
entry-level variants have smaller wheels which measure 19 inches up front and
20 inches out back. They are backed up by internally ventilated discs which
measure 13 inches and are grabbed by black four-piston calipers.
Besides the smaller wheels, the entry-level Carrera
models have a modified exhaust. As Porsche explained, “The standard 911 Carrera
models feature one rectangular, single-tube tailpipe on each side, while the S
models are fitted with a set of round twin-tailpipes on each side.”
Of course, owners can easily dress up their 911
Carrera to make it look like the S variant. Among the options are 20- / 21-inch
wheels, ceramic composite brakes and a sports exhaust system with two oval
tailpipes. The interior carries over and all models are equipped with a
10.9-inch infotainment system. There’s also a standard Porsche Active
Suspension Management system with electronically variable damping. The latter
features Normal and Sport modes, so drivers can either emphasize comfort or
handling.
The models are currently available to order and
pricing starts at US$9 7,400 for the Coupe and US$ 110,200 for the Convertible –
excluding a US$ 1,350 delivery, processing and handling fee. Following their
launch next year, all-wheel drive versions will arrive shortly thereafter.