Colin-on-Cars – Porsche adds GTS variants to 911 range

The Porsche 911, now in its eighth generation, is expanding its range with the inclusion of five GTS variants.

All are powered by a six-cylinder boxer engine delivering 353 kW, which is 22 kW more than the current 911 Carrera S and the previous 911 GTS.

The five model variants are:

  • 911 Carrera GTS with rear-wheel drive, as Coupé and Cabriolet
  • 911 Carrera 4 GTS with all-wheel drive, as Coupé and Cabriolet
  • 911 Targa 4 GTS with all-wheel drive.

An eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK) or a seven-speed manual, along with GTS-specific suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and the high-performance braking system from the 911 Turbo, is standard.

Available on the GTS for the first time is the optional Lightweight Design package which saves up to 25 kilograms and further enhances driving dynamics.

911 Carrera GTS

The looks of the new models feature black contrasting bodywork elements and darkened headlight areas. Black is also the dominant colour of the interior where many features are made of Race-Tex microfibre.

The turbo-charged three-litre flat-six in the new 911 GTS delivers its 353 kW with maximum torque now 570 Nm, an increase of 20 Nm over its predecessor. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes just 3,3 seconds in the 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé with the eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK), three tenths faster than its predecessor.

Its suspension, derived from the 911 Turbo and modified for the GTS, features Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), where the dampers respond to dynamic changes at lightning speed. In the Coupé and Cabriolet, PASM is standard combined with the 10-millimetre-lower sport chassis.

To match the increased performance of the GTS, the models feature the high-performance braking system from the 911 Turbo. The 20-inch (front) and 21-inch (rear) black, centre-lock alloy wheels are from the 911 Turbo. The standard sports exhaust system is responsible for an even more emotive soundtrack, thanks to its GTS-specific set-up and the omission of some interior insulation.

911 Targa 4 GTS

A multitude of black or darkened exterior details is characteristic of the 911 GTS. On the 911 Targa 4 GTS, this also includes the Targa roll bar and Targa lettering. Elements painted in black silk gloss include the spoiler lip, the centre-lock alloy wheels, the engine cover louvres, and the GTS script on the doors and rear of the car. The exterior package, in which these and other details are offered in high-gloss black, can be chosen as an option.

All 911 GTS models have the Sport Design package, with distinctive trim for the front, rear and the side sills. The headlight rims and daytime running light surrounds are darkened, and the car is fitted with standard LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus). The rear lights are unique to the GTS models.

Driving dynamics are improved with the optional Lightweight Design package, which will be available for the first time on the GTS range. Up to 25 kg will be saved by the lighter carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) full bucket seats, lightweight glass for the side and rear windows, and lightweight battery. The rear seats are also removed. Other performance enhancements include rear-axle steering as standard in this equipment package and additional aerodynamic finishing touches.

The gear lever of the optional seven-speed manual transmission has been shortened by 10 mm, which enables fast gear shifts with a flick of the wrist. A GT Sport steering wheel as well as the Sport Chrono package with mode switch, Porsche Track Precision app and a tyre temperature display are standard features. The standard Sport Seats Plus with electric four-way adjustment provide lateral support, comfort and convenience. The interior insulation has been reduced, which enhances the emotive driving acoustics.

The new generation of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) features additional functions and significantly simplified operation. The touch areas in the menu have been enlarged and the option of rearranging the tiles on the home screen is new. The improved voice assistant recognises natural speech and can be activated with ‘Hey Porsche’.

iOS and Android users will enjoy full connectivity. With Apple Car Play and now Android Auto, the functions of the corresponding mobile phones can be fully used in the new  Porsche 911 GTS models.

Leave a Reply