911 | The Car Magazine

Only slightly ahead of the U.S.’ annual of 4th July 4th celebrations (not to mention our Canada Day on July 1), Porsche unveiled its new 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition. Of course, the new…

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New 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition coming to Canada

The new 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition looks stunning parked ahead of a city skyline. — The new 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition keeps its red, white and blue details subtle, making it fit ideally into the Canadian market.

Only slightly ahead of the U.S.’ annual of 4th July 4th celebrations (not to mention our Canada Day on July 1), Porsche unveiled its new 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition. Of course, the new limited model also celebrates the red, white and blue market, with exclusive paint, badges, and interior detailing.

Being that we’re talking Porsche, the current naming convention would be Guards Red with Pure White for the special 911’s exterior accents, which include a thick set of rocker stripes boasting classic “America” script on the front portion of each door panel, as well as white nameplate lettering on the rear deck lid, while white-painted RS Spyder Design alloy wheels feature red pin-striping on the edges of their rims. The exterior paint is Azure Blue, incidentally, completing the look.

America Edition has become a Porsche sports car tradition

The 1952 Porsche 356 America Roadster is a highly collectible classic Porsche. — This highly collectible 1952 Porsche 356 America Roadster was the inspiration behind the new 2023 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition.

Just in case you were thinking the America Edition is something new, the market targeted tradition goes back 70 years. Porsche initially designed a special 356 America Roadster to interest American sports car buyers in 1952, and then did something similar with the 911 (964) Cabriolet back in 1992 as the 964 America Roadster. Once again, the now classic America Edition gets applied to a 2023 911, and while no red and white edition will be available to Canadians north of the 49th, we do have the opportunity to purchase this red, white and blue variant.

“The brand celebrates its heritage with this exclusive 911 model that brings us back to roots of the legendary 356 America Roadster from 70 years ago,” said Marc Ouayoun, president and CEO Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd. “We are delighted to be able to also extend the offer to our Canadian clientele, even if in very limited numbers.”

The “very limited numbers” Ouayoun mentioned total 130 units overall, divided into 115 examples sold into the U.S., and just 15 made available in Canada.

Special America Edition based on super-quick 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

Stunning new 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition looks menacing from the rear. — The new 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition features thick white side stripes and gorgeous white alloy wheels.

The new America Edition, which was unveiled at the 2022 Porsche Parade in Poconos, PA, is based on the brilliantly fast 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet, which means its twin-turbo 3.0-litre horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine makes a robust 473 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. All of that grunt goes down to the rear wheels via Porsche’s seven-speed manual gearbox, while helper springs were added to the rear axle before the standard upgrade to Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) Sport lowered the ride height by 10 mm (0.4 in), enhancing handling further.

The standard menu grows to include the Sport Chrono Package as well, plus a sport exhaust system, while rear axle steering and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are offered as options, the latter increasing stopping performance over the regular cast iron brakes, which are comprised of 408/380 mm front/rear rotors with six- and four-piston black-painted aluminium calipers respectively.

Unique interior highlights make America Edition stand out

Red steering wheel centre stripe and red/grey stitching on 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition instrument panel. — Unique America Edition features include a red centre stripe on the steering wheel, plus much more.

Once you step over exclusive “1952 – 1992 – 2022 – 70 Years America Roadster” scuff plates, your eyes will likely notice a bright red vertical stripe at the top centre of the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. Additional interior upgrades include baseball-style Guards Red and light Pebble Grey two-tone cross-stitched thread running across the dash top and door uppers, as well as two-tone French-stitched detailing to each side of the shifter, which fasten the boot into place. The latter also garnishes each side of the centre armrest, plus there’s a custom leather key fob holster for sliding the upgraded Azure Blue key into.

A special set of ribbed sport seats also gets the red and white treatment, albeit with twinned rows of alternating colours. Porsche follows the stylish theme over to the rear jump seat cushions, while back up front, bold red “911” block letters are embroidered into the front headrests. As if that weren’t enough, red stitching binds the leather of the steering wheel rim together around the inside, plus the seatbelts and webbed seatback releases are also done out in bring red. Notably, some of these the above features come as part of an optional extended interior package, but I wouldn’t lose any sleep about which features are standard or optional, because we can’t imagine Porsche Canada would import any 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America units being shipped without this option package.

North American driving passion is why America Edition exists

The 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition's sharp looking sport seats. — The America Edition’s unique seat detailing includes red embroidered GTS script on the headrests, plus alternating red and grey stitching on the ribbed seat inserts.

“Passion for driving a Porsche runs deep in the United States,” stated Kjell Gruner, Porsche Cars North America President and CEO. “In particular, there is something special about hitting the road in an open top 911 with a manual transmission that fits perfectly here. This is also the perfect time to add another ‘America’ model to our story as we look back on 70 years since the 356 America Roadster and 30 years since the 964 America Roadster.”

Canadians wanting a new 2023 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition might find that the “very limited” order book is filled already, despite the special model’s $206,190 base price (214,750 with the extended interior package), although it never hurts to contact your local Porsche retailer to make sure. Who knows? Maybe someone cancelled their order due to a sudden shortage of Bitcoin.

If not, check out all the 2022 Porsche 911 models currently available at the CarCostCanada 2022 Porsche 911 Canada Prices page, where members are saving an average of $2,333 on a new 911! CarCostCanada provides many other member benefits too, so find out more about their service and be sure to download their free app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Lastly, make sure to check out the full gallery of 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet America Edition images (with close-ups) by clicking the top photo!

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

Ah, nostalgia. There comes a point in life when the “good old days” can seem more appealing to some than the unending fast-paced changes occurring in today’s world. Certainly, some things get better,…

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Porsche pulls on our nostalgic heartstrings with its new 911 Sport Classic

2023 Porsche 911 Sport Classic — Porsche’s new 911 Sport Classic combines Turbo and Turbo S mechanicals with a manual gearbox, rear-drive, and cool retro styling.

Ah, nostalgia. There comes a point in life when the “good old days” can seem more appealing to some than the unending fast-paced changes occurring in today’s world. Certainly, some things get better, like Porsche’s 911, but many of Canada’s more mature citizens would no doubt love to transport themselves back to “better times”.

That’s what Porsche is attempting to do, at least emotively, with the fabulous new 911 Sport Classic, which only recently debuted. It’s a retrospective look back to the past that, while pulling design cues from the ‘70s, particularly the ducktail spoiler at back, remains a 100-percent functional and reliable modern-day 911; a best of both world’s scenario for those whose hearts long for exhilarating Saturday drives behind the wheel of their 1973 911 RS, but wallets may not want to invest so much into a car.

Sadly, if you don’t already own an early 911 Carrera 2.7 RS, prices for pristine examples have soared past seven figures (the DuPont Registry has one on sale now for $919,000 USD or $1.2 million CAD), making the much more approachable sum of $235,600 CAD for today’s 911 Turbo S seem like a bargain, or alternatively, whatever Porsche finally settles on for the new 911 Sport Classic.

Near 911 Turbo power with a manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive

That price has yet to be announced, but it will likely be higher than the window sticker of today’s 911 Turbo S. After all, under the Sport Classic’s skin is a one-of-a-kind rear-wheel drive Porsche Turbo S, which kind of makes it a forerunner to a future 992-based GT2. Until that supercar arrives, this is the only way you’re getting a new 911 Turbo with rear-wheel drive, let alone one with a seven-speed manual transmission.

Today’s 911 Turbo and Turbo S are only available with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive and the brand’s brilliant eight-speed Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch gearbox, so while the new Sport Classic’s acceleration time might not quite measure up to the regular Turbo S’ all-wheel traction and quicker shifting PDK, these technologies aiding its blisteringly quick 2.7-second sprint from standstill to 100 km/h and harrowing top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph), purists anteing up for this drive back to yesteryear would only be satisfied with a manually-actuated rear driver.

This said, the Turbo S’ 641 horsepower 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged horizontally opposed six, featuring 590 lb-ft of torque, is not part of the package, instead replaced by the regular Turbo’s 3.7-litre mill, normally good for a 2.8-second zero to 100 km/h acceleration time, albeit further detuned from 572 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque to 543 horsepower and 442 lb-ft. The revised engine mapping was necessary to make the engine more compatible with the manual gearbox, but once again, purists won’t complain. After all, this new rear-drive retro-rod is more potent than the sensational 502-horsepower 911 GT3.

Turbo S wide-body and underpinnings makes for muscular styling and superior handling

So, if the Sport Classic utilizes a detuned version of the regular 911 Turbo’s 3.7-litre engine, why say it’s based on a Turbo S? Porsche’s reference has more to do with its wide-body layout that also includes upgraded brakes, wheels, tires, and suspension enhancements. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) with subtly painted black calipers are framed by a stunning set of staggered 20- and 21-inch 911 Sport Classic wheels on 255/35 ZR20 and 315/30 ZR21 performance tires front to rear, the former being “a modern re-interpretation of the Fuchs design,” says Porsche.

Also notable is the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) Sport suspension upgrade with 10 millimetres (0.4 in) of overall height reduction, while the front axle spring rates have been decreased slightly to adjust for the lower frontal mass of the missing all-wheel drivetrain.

Hidden within, yet no doubt noticeable when taking the wheel, is Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) and Rear Axle Steering as standard equipment, plus, of course, Porsche’s revered Sport Chrono Package, while the engine note should make a special tune derived by a uniquely modified Sport Exhaust system.

Fast yes, but the 911 Sport Classic is just as much about style

As sensational as this car is mechanically, being the most powerful Porsche currently available with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, for many the initial attraction will be styling. To that end the new Sport Classic pulls on design cues initialized by the beautiful 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition that we covered in June of 2020, but where the open-top model’s gorgeous Cherry Metallic paintwork gave it a classier appearance, the new coupe’s Sport Grey Metallic paint, and painted contrasting stripes in light Sport Grey, have a more purposeful, performance-first look.

Both cars are from Porsche’s “Heritage Design” series, and both go a long way to pull on the heartstrings of mature Porschephiles that may have either owned a ‘60s- or ‘70s-era 911 in their earlier life, or more likely were the benefactors of a father or uncle that did. Many more merely saw similarly sporting 911s driving by on occasion, or drooled over centerfold spreads of those cars in glossy magazines like Motor Trend or Car and Driver. The new Sport Classic is now capable of fulfilling that once magical childhood dream, albeit with a level of performance never even contemplated back in such innocent days.

Unique styling upgrades join other design details that are purposefully missing

Minus the painted centre stripes, which actually bisect a carbon-fibre hood that’s unique to Turbo models, as well as a special “double-bubble” roof panel, and less the decaled white lollipop (that can be numbered from 1 to 99 at no additional cost), plus the striped “PORSCHE” lettering down each rocker panel, which, like the lollipop, is a decal that can be removed by a customer/dealer if desired, the new Sport Classic is also reminiscent of the 911 Sport Classic that Porsche built for 2010, a particularly attractive design that won the hearts of enthusiasts a dozen years ago.

The Sport Classic should be noted for what it doesn’t include too. The wider rear wing from the Turbo/Turbo S’ is the most obvious, replaced by the stubbier ducktail spoiler noted earlier, the latter seeming as if it’s an extension of the more common car’s wing pedestal. The ovoid intakes normally found ahead of each rear fender flair aren’t included either, providing a cleaner, more classic look. These important cooling ducts are now integrated below the ducktail spoiler, just above two large circular tailpipes poking out the rear bumper, these replacing the Turbo/Turbo S’ quad of rectangular exhaust tips.

At least as complex, Porsche not only had to retool its 911 assembly line to create the rear quarter panels in order to remove the cooling vents, but the bottom edge of these panels is entirely different from the Turbo/Turbo S models too, as is this lower section on the front quarter panels (aft of the front wheels), the rocker panels and those on the rear quarters.

Standard Sport Classic interior adds 1970s flair

The Sport Classic continues its retrospective theme inside, where “Pepita” checkered fabric seat centres and door panels are joined by black and Classic Cognac semi-aniline leather (the latter also used in the fabulous 918 Spyder supercar), although those wanting a bit less of yesteryear can choose optional single-tone black leather (yawn). Leather also covers the sun visors, steering wheel rim and even the steering column, not to mention the air vent slats, while perforated Race-Tex fabric is used for the headliner plus the A-, B- and C-Pillars, aiding visual, tactile and auditory refinement.

Ahead of the driver, the mostly digital gauge cluster gets cool green-backlit dials, also from Porsche’s past, but the Porsche Communications Management (PCM) system is 100-percent modern in look and internal execution, which is a positive considering this car is meant more for high-speed cruising than racetrack activities.

Limited edition Sport Classic available in Canada

With only 1,250 units available worldwide, it might be difficult to get one’s hands on this limited edition 911. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to ask your local dealer, who just might have allocated an unspoken-for example (the markets have taken their toll in recent weeks, so you never know if someone cancelled).

And on that note, it was nice of Porsche to include North America for this iteration of its Heritage Design line, being that the aforementioned 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition was not offered on this side of the Atlantic.

The new Porsche 911 Sport Classic (3:17):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

Like it or lump it, both 718 models’ horizontally opposed “lumps” are getting tossed when the two sports cars’ fifth generation debuts in three years. According to Porsche CEO Oliver Blume, the…

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Fifth-generation Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster going completely electric

2022 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 — The next-generation 718 Boxster and Cayman will be 100-percent electric when they debut in 2025.

Like it or lump it, both 718 models’ horizontally opposed “lumps” are getting tossed when the two sports cars’ fifth generation debuts in three years.

According to Porsche CEO Oliver Blume, the mid-engine 718 Cayman coupe and 718 Boxster convertible, plus the Spyder if offered, will say goodbye to their flat-four and flat-six engines by 2025, replaced by fully electric power.

No announcements about powertrain specifics are available, but Porsche’s entry-level sports cars are being designed to keep their lightweight DNA intact, while plenty of lessons learned from building the all-electric Porsche Taycan, as well as the upcoming 2024 Macan EV (that we covered previously), should aid development of the two-place performance duet.

Tech from LMP1 Le Mans racer and 919 hypercar expected for 911 hybrid power unit

2022 Porsche 911 Cabriolet GTS — The 911 will keep its combustion powerplant lineup in 2025, but a hybrid will join the fray.

Additionally, Porsche’s 911 will continue forward with a lineup of internal combustion engines for the unforeseen future, but take note that its powertrain choices will expand to include a hybrid-electric option for 2025. Blume stated this electrified 911 will even source its tech from the brand’s multi-championship-winning motorsports division, with a nod to the LMP1 Le Mans race-spec power unit, which was also used in the phenomenal 919 hybrid supercar. Blume went further to suggest that a future 911 GT3 would receive a version of new hybrid powerplant.

Hybrids in mind, could F1 be in Porsche’s future? While we wouldn’t want to guess, Blume did tease that more surprises could be expected in the near future.

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

Porsche Design, the quintessential sports car brand’s (and performance crossover maker’s) in-house design department, is celebrating 50 years in 2022, so it only makes sense they’d commemorate such…

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Limited edition 911 Targa created to commemorate 50 years of Porsche Design

2022 Porsche 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design — Porsche has made a special limited-edition 911 Targa 4 GTS, plus restored a 1972 911 Targa, to commemorate 50 years of Porsche Design.

Porsche Design, the quintessential sports car brand’s (and performance crossover maker’s) in-house design department, is celebrating 50 years in 2022, so it only makes sense they’d commemorate such an important occasion with a special version of the only model still made that was available back in 1972, the legendary 911.

The new 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design, based on a 2022 911 Targa 4 GTS, features plenty of stylish upgrades along with a nice package of bundled features, including dark-silver and satin-black exterior accents on the Targa bar, a similar treatment on the centre-lock Turbo S wheels, and a set of “Porsche Design” badges, while four gloss-black painted brake calipers and a “50 Years” plaque atop the engine cover finish off the retro look.

Subtle details enhance posh interior

Inside, a dash plaque commemorates the Porsche Design division’s 50th anniversary as well as each car’s placement in the 750-unit limited edition series, while the 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design cabin also benefits from a special steering wheel badge, and the signature of Ferry Porsche’s son Ferdinand Alexander (the Porsche Design division’s creator), atop the centre console lid.

Of course, the 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design model just wouldn’t be right without a set of embroidered or embossed headrests, with the latter getting the nod, while this handywork gets added to the model’s top-level 18-way Adaptive Sport Seats Plus, while Slate Grey seat belts can be found to either side. Additionally, Porsche’s much-lauded Sport Chrono Package comes as standard equipment, with a unique Porsche Design chronograph clock placed in the usual centre position on the dash-top.

Watchmaking has long been an important part of Porsche Design’s business

Important to understand, this unique chronograph clock face has more significance in this special edition Porsche Design model’s than it would in other 911s, because the in-house styling house has been designing timepieces from its onset. In fact, Porsche Design has now reissued its first wristwatch, the 1972 Chronograph 1, limiting it to a mere 500 units. To be clear, Porsche Design watches are respected much more than the quartz-powered pieces you might find in a dealership’s parts department. The original Porsche Design watch, powered by a Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph (Valjoux is now owned by Swatch group’s ETA, while now defunct Orfina, once a highly respected Swiss watchmaker, produced watches for Porsche Design as well), was also the watch industry’s first fully black timepiece (other than some of its details), a feature, like the dials in a car’s gauge cluster, designed to minimize glare during racing.

At $7,700 USD, the new 1972 Chronograph 1 reissue is hardly inexpensive, although the price is not over-the-top for a high-quality mechanical chronograph with Porsche Design credentials, so it should sell out quickly, while a second Porsche Design chronograph, dubbed Porsche Design Chronograph 1 – 1972 Limited Edition, a more modern take on the original design, will be included with every 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design purchase.

Each of the 750 timepieces feature an all-black design, like the 1972 Chronograph 1, with bright white used to make the sharply printed indices and sub-dial markers easy to read. Ditto for the white hour and minute hands, although Porsche Design has once again bowed to history by providing a bright red seconds hand and red lettering above the 6 o’clock position. No doubt, each 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design buyer will cherish this unique timepiece, which will more than likely appreciate over time.

Porsche’s future is all about marrying the past to the present

1972 Porsche 911 Targa — It would be tough to choose which Porsche 911 we’d rather have, new or old?

Along with the special-edition Targa 4 GTS and two Porsche Design watches, Porsche Design chose to commemorate its 50-year celebration by commissioning a completely restored 1972 911 S 2.4 Targa, which can be seen in the photos. Turning to Porsche Classic, the brand’s in-house restoration division, made sure it would receive original and hand-made components, resulting in an almost completely new version of this 50-year-old example of rolling art and celebrated performance.

The fact both new and old Porsche’s share many of the same styling details is no coincidence either, but as much as you might want to put the two 911s in a garage side-by-side, you’ll only be able to see the classic on display at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, alongside one new 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design, as well as the two Porsche Design watches.

New 911 Edition 50Y Porsche Design available now

The new model is available now, ahead of arriving in Canada this spring, for the tidy sum of $217,200, and while it may already be sold out, it probably wouldn’t hurt to contact your local Porsche retailer to make sure.

50 years of Porsche Design with a special edition 911 #Shorts (best viewed on phone or tablet):
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qrReywyb3Yw

The 911 Edition 50 Years Porsche Design (1:00):

Porsche Design presents the Sport Chrono Collection (1:31):

Porsche Design Chronograph 911 GT3 with Touring Package (1:14):

The new 1919 Globetimer UTC from Porsche Design (1:48):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche Design

Not everyone’s favourite 911, but nevertheless the 1997 to 2006 996 is now the most affordable iteration available, yet it was one of the more notable for ushering in Porsche’s first water-cooled…

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Porsche creates the one-off 911 Classic Club Coupe for Porsche Club of America

2022 Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe — Tell us you don’t love this 996 restomod. We think it’s brilliant, and might even cause this oddball 911 to go up in value.

Not everyone’s favourite 911, but nevertheless the 1997 to 2006 996 is now the most affordable iteration available, yet it was one of the more notable for ushering in Porsche’s first water-cooled flat-six, riding on the first updated chassis platform since the original 911 came on scene in 1963, improving interior refinement, and completely changing the face of the world’s most iconic sports car.

The latter was almost as traumatic to Porschephiles as reformulating New Coke was to cola fans, hence the quick return from “fried egg” shaped headlights to more classic ovoid lenses, but the notorious L-shaped clusters, initially introduced on the first-generation Boxster that, being codeveloped alongside the 996, also shared much of its frontal underpinnings, have a charm of their own when combined with bespoke bodywork and a cool retro-modern paint scheme.

How to make a 996 look a whole lot better in only 30 months

The 996’ more raked windshield and overall sleeker body reduced wind resistance while aiding downforce and interior quietness, but that didn’t stop the in-house Porsche Classic workshop from tweaking the front spoiler, modifying the side skirts, adding a double-bubble roof, and completely reworking the rear deck lid with an ultra-cool 1972 911 Carrera RS 2.7-inspired ducktail.

Many of those changes paid tribute to a special 911 that came before, albeit not before this 1998 996, which incidentally was found in rough shape on a dealer lot in Colombia, Virginia. Vu Nguyen, executive director of the Porsche Club of America (PCA) spotted it, and then contacted Porsche with his idea of modding it to levels way beyond its original stealth Carrera ways.

The task took the Porsche Classic team 30 months to complete, and we think it was well worth the effort. First off, we doubt anyone has ever seen a better looking 996, GT3 and Turbo trims included. Speaking of GT3, Porsche located an original 3.6-litre engine from a later model 996 GT3, good for 381 tuned horsepower, not to mention suspension and brake components to make sure this lowly Carrera responded similarly to the much-vaunted track racer.

Beautiful 2009 911 Sport Classic was used for design inspiration

As for the design, much of the aforementioned aerodynamic bodywork was visually inspired by the fabulous 911 Sport Classic (997) of 2009, including the roof bulges, awesome rear wing, which were honed in Porsche’s wind tunnel, and much of the paint scheme. The latter a remix of Porsche’s Sport Grey Metallic, although a lighter Sport Grey was used for the twinned centre stripes, that run the entire length of the car, as well as the rocker stripes down below.

The big differentiator are the Club Blue pinstripes highlighting the outer edges of the lighter Sport Grey stripes, which just happens to be PCA’s official livery. Finishing off the look is a sweet set of 18-inch Fuchs black-painted alloy rims, designed in classic ‘70s Carrera style. The stick fitted rubber no doubt helped keep it locked onto the track at the Porsche Development Centre in Weissach, Germany, where it underwent testing prior to being released to PCA.

Where the 2009 911 Sport Classic benefited from a limited run of 250 units going to Porsche customers, the new Classic Club Coupe is a one-off for one customer only, albeit one very big customer. PCA is Porsche’s oldest and largest ownership club, so while very few members will be able to drive it, all will adore it during club meets.

Porsche Classic updated the interior too

No doubt these members will appreciate the level of detail the Porsche Classic team went into when designing and executing the interior, which also features PCA’s signature Club Blue colouring in key areas, such as the stitching on the leather key fob, and even more noticeable blue thread on the upholstery. The seats even sport embroidered “911 Classic Club Coupe” script on the front headrests, while the centre panels of the front and rear seats, plus each door panel, feature a classic Pepita houndstooth pattern woven from slate grey and black leather. The special car also gets a new steering wheel, an updated Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, and last but hardly least, a plaque on the dashboard that reads, “911 Classic Club Coupe No. 001/001”.

Will this new one-off cause the prices of 996 models to rise? Porsche might want to consider making some of the new body panels available through its parts division, not to mention a few of the interior upgrades, because we could imagine that owners of this particular model might be eager to make them look prettier. Kits have long been available to convert their headlights from fried eggs to ovals (which are arguably more fried egg-shaped as it is), but we think a kit that actually celebrates the oddity of the 996 would be an even more welcome option.

Presenting the exclusive Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe (1:13):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

The fabulous 911 GTS is back, and just like in 2019, the last time Porsche offered the performance-first model with the car’s previous seventh-generation 991 body style, it comes in five distinct variations.…

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New 2022 Porsche 911 GTS debuts with 473 horsepower

The fabulous 911 GTS is back, and just like in 2019, the last time Porsche offered the performance-first model with the car’s previous seventh-generation 991 body style, it comes in five distinct variations.

Now based on the 911’s eighth-generation 992 model (see our first story about the 922 model here), the 2022 version is available as the $150,700 Carrera GTS coupe, $165,300 Carrera GTS Cabriolet, $159,100 Carrera 4 GTS, $173,700 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet, and lastly the $173,700 Targa 4 GTS (see all other 2022 Porsche 911 models here).

The 3.0-litre flat-six engine’s displacement is unchanged as well, as is its twin-turbo forced induction system, but a new sport exhaust, together with reduced interior insulation, provides louder, more exhilarating sounds, while the GTS’ engine output has been pumped up by 23 horsepower to 473, while torque has increased by 15 lb-ft to 420, both thanks to 2.3 psi of additional boost.

The massaged powerplant slices 3/10ths from the old GTS’ launch time when utilizing its eight-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox together with the standard Sport Chrono Package (which includes dynamic engine mounts, launch control, and Sport Plus mode), combining for standstill to 100 km/h sprint time of just 3.4 seconds in base Carrera GTS coupe trim, all before a 1-km/h-faster 311 km/h top track speed.

The AWD-enhanced Carrera 4 GTS is even quicker off the line, launching from zero to 100 km/h a mere 3.3 seconds, but its terminal velocity is a hair slower at 309 km/h. The Carrera GTS Cabriolet can achieve the same top track speed as the Carrera 4 GTS, although at 3.6 seconds to 100 km/h it’s the slowest of the five. This said, the Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet and Targa 4 GTS coupe each shave a 10th from the most affordable GTS convertible, with 0-100 km/h sprints only requiring 3.5 seconds, and their top speeds maxxing out at 307 km/h.

2022 Porsche 911 GTS Targa — The Targa is the way to go if your summers aren’t as long as the winters.

Of note, those wanting a DIY transmission can opt for Porsche’s seven-speed manual, at no difference in price from the PDK. The short-throw shifter is a full 10 mm stubbier than the gear lever in the regular 911, but this isn’t the drivetrain to get if drag racing is your thing, as straight-line acceleration is down some 0.7 to 0.8 seconds (depending on the model) compared to the PDK. Instead, the manual is best for those who enjoy the art of driving.

The best of such moments can often be found when a given road starts to wind, and to that end the new GTS includes a Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system that was pinched from the newest 911 Turbo, while coupe and convertible models now roll on a 10-mm lower sport suspension that to improves aerodynamics and provides enhanced transitional response.

The GTS’ 20-inch front and 21-inch rear Satin Black alloys were pulled from the 911 Turbo S, however, as were their 245/35R20 front and 305/30R21 rear summer performance tires, while the high-performance brakes hiding behind the spokes were initially developed for the regular 911 Turbo. These boast red-painted six- and four-piston aluminum monobloc fixed calipers, with 408- and 380-mm cross-drilled and internally vented rotors front to back.

Additionally, a new Lightweight Design package, that chops up to 25 kilograms from the model’s curb weight, can be had for the first time on a GTS, featuring a set of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) full bucket seats, lightweight side and rear window glass, deleted rear seats, plus more.

As far as aesthetics go, the SportDesign package is standard on all GTS models, so therefore the front fascia, side sills, and rear styling is unique when put side-by-side with other 911 models. Additionally, black is once again the theme from the outside in, most noticeable with the cars’ tail lamps that feature darkened lenses, while the Targa features a darker roll hoop with black lettering on both sides.

Inside, black suede-like Race-Tex microfibre surfaces the steering wheel rim, shift knob, centre seat panels, door handles, armrests, and the centre storage compartment lid/armrest, aiding grip and adding plush style. What’s more, buyers can opt for optional red stitching in key areas, or just keep it black on black.

Being based on the new eighth-gen 911, the new GTS features the upgraded Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 6.0 infotainment system, that features a more user-friendly interface design, faster response to inputs, plus Android Auto smartphone integration (joining Apple CarPlay that was already available).

Porsche improved the PCM’s voice assistant as well, which can now recognize natural speech more easily. All a user needs to do to activate the upgraded system is say, “Hey Porsche,” and then follow the prompts. Another PCM 6.0 bonus is the Porsche Track Precision app that lets track driver’s time laps and much more, plus a tire temperature display is also part of the standard package when choosing a GTS.

You can order a new 2022 Porsche 911 GTS now, and likely qualify for factory leasing and financing rates from zero percent. Check out CarCostCanada’s 2022 Porsche 911 Canada Prices page to learn more, and while you’re at it find out how dealer invoice pricing can save you thousands off your next new car. You can also download the free CarCostCanada app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store, to guarantee you’ll have all the information you need to get the best deal possible on your next new vehicle.

The new 911 Carrera GTS: More of What You Love (2:41):

The new 911 Carrera GTS: Drone POV (1:00):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

If you want the purist of 911s, look no further than the fabulous GT3 coupe (we covered in detail here). While not as ultimately fast as the previous-generation GT2 RS, that turbocharged super-coupe once…

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New 911 GT3 gets luxury treatment with optional Touring Package

2022 Porsche 911 GT3 Touring Package — A no-cost Touring Package is now available for GT3 customers, providing a more classic look and enhanced luxury for one of Porsche’s best-performing 911 models.

If you want the purist of 911s, look no further than the fabulous GT3 coupe (we covered in detail here). While not as ultimately fast as the previous-generation GT2 RS, that turbocharged super-coupe once again winning bragging rights at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife just a week ago, this time chopping a sizeable 4.747 seconds from the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series lap time on its way to claiming fastest production car status, the naturally aspirated GT3 nevertheless churns out 502 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of torque from its 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine, and makes beautiful 9,000-rpm music while doing so.

How does the GT3 stack up on the track? Of the top-10 fastest production cars to ever course through the old 20.8-km portion of the Nürburgring track, which incidentally is known affectionately as “The Green Hell” due to its forested, mountainside surroundings, 300 metres of elevation, 73 turns, and legendarily challenging nature (racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart originally coined the phrase), five are Porsches and two are GT3s. Sitting in eighth is the current-generation (992) GT3 RS, with a lap time of just 6:55.34 minutes, while the ninth-placed car is a previous-generation (991.2) GT3 RS.

While the GT3’s track exploits are praiseworthy to say the least, it’s a race-ready supercar that can be easily seen as such by passersby (including the constabulary) while also purposely lacking a few modern-day 911 refinements, with an obvious leaning toward sport, rather than luxury. Porsche hopes its new Touring Package, available at no additional cost to 2022 GT3 buyers, will help those wanting to fly under the radar escape scrutiny, without being forced to give up on owning one of the most sought-after 911 models available.

Visually separating the regular GT3 from the new Touring Package-equipped variant is a switch to the more conventional deployable rear wing used on most other 911 models, which pops up out of rear deck lid when needed and otherwise hides away. This provides a more classic 911 coupe profile that attracts a lot less attention than the super-sized carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) one found on the original, but of course doesn’t deliver the same level of ultimate downforce, therefore reducing high-speed stability through corners. It’s a trade-off that some buyers won’t mind, however, especially when laying eyes on the specially designed rear grille. Additionally, the front fascia on Touring Package cars is body-colour, while high-gloss anodized silver-tone aluminum trim surrounds the side windows and polished metal highlights the tailpipes (Satin Black is an option for both).

The Touring Package doesn’t swap out the regular GT3’s CFRP hood and front spoiler for lesser variants of each, fortunately, and doesn’t mess with anything under that just-noted rear wing either, although a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission can now be had with either GT3 model, and like the Touring Package itself, is a no-cost option.

Silver-painted versions of the same 20-inch front and 21-inch rear forged alloy rims come shod in respective 255/35 and 315/30 ZR performance rubber with the new Touring Package, once again encircling Satin Black centre locking caps with regular Porsche crests rather than “GT3” logos.

If you choose a subtler exterior colour when for your Touring Package-equipped GT3, like Agate Grey Metallic or GT Silver Metallic, rest assured GT3 badging will still be part of the ownership experience. Still, along with the new rear engine grille, Porsche revised its designation to read “GT3 touring”. Of note, this wide-body 911 is still available with every exterior colour and shade offered for the regular GT3, including Chalk and more outlandish hues like Lava Orange, Python Green and Shark Blue.

The Touring Package interior gets upgrades too, including an extended black leather upholstery package that enhances the steering wheel rim, gear lever, centre console lid, door panel armrests, and door grips, while edging the dash and both door uppers with a special embossed surface treatment.

This said, quick glance at the racing-style seats in the Touring Package might make you believe they’re unchanged, but closer inspection shows a unique fabric used for their centre panels, plus embossed Porsche crests in place of the usual GT3 logos on the headrests. Finally, Touring Package door sill guards receive a brushed black aluminum treatment that’s also applied to some dash and centre console components.

It should be noted that GT3 Touring Package buyers can also opt for multiple two-tone cabins that add coloured leather to the interior’s lower half.

Those wanting to upgrade their GT3 Touring Package-equipped car even further will be happy to know that most regular GT3 options can still be had, including all wheel colours, the Porsche Dynamic Light System and Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus, every driver assistance system, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), Smart Front Axle Lift, and all the same alternative seats, while an available Bose Surround Sound System is on the menu too, plus, of course, the Sport Chrono package.

Any added weight (which is not accounted for on Porsche’s retail site or in any press releases) hasn’t impeded performance, with both regular GT3 and Touring Package-equipped models sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds when fitted with the six-speed manual GT Sport transmission, or 3.4 seconds with the standard paddle-shift-operated seven-speed PDK transmission. Likewise, terminal track speeds remain identical at a respective 320 km/h (199 mph) and (318 km/h (198 mph), but it’s possible that removing of the larger rear wing could allow Touring Package-equipped cars a slightly higher top speed, possibly even 322 km/h (200 mph).

The two GT3 models incorporate identical suspension setups as well, including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with ride-height lowering (by approximately 20mm). Therefore, both should provide near identical handling, although once again, elimination of the fixed rear wing will make a difference at high speeds, not to mention when scrubbing off speed via both GT3s’ sizeable 408 mm front and 380 mm rear brakes.

For a bit of history regarding the “Touring Package” name, it first came in use for a version of the 1973 911 Carrera RS, likewise providing a more luxurious trim upgrade for a model that could be seen as the GT3 of its generation. The Touring Package name was also revived for the sixth-gen 991-based GT3 in 2017.

If you’d like to bring your GT3 Touring Package experience into the office or back home, a special Porsche Design chronograph watch can be had as well. It boasts a sophisticated mechanical movement with a flyback second hand function, plus its winding rotor, seen through a caseback window, shares styling cues with the car’s wheel design. The rotor is even available in six different versions to correspond with your car’s personal configuration.

Each dial bezel is finished in Agate Grey Metallic, however, plus all dials receive a matte black surface, but each chronograph hand matches the bright luminous yellow colour of the GT3’s tachometer needle for another nice tie-in to the actual car. Attaching the beautiful watch head to your wrist is a strap made from the same embossed leather as that used in the Touring Package-equipped GT3, along with some black decorative stitching. This new chronograph is made in Porsche Design’s own Swiss watchmaking factory, and is only available to GT3 customers.

This means in order to qualify for the watch you’ll need to ante up at least $180,300 for either the regular GT3 or Touring Package-equipped version. Notably, Porsche is offering 2022 911 models with factory leasing and financing rates from zero percent, so be sure to check out the 2022 Porsche 911 Canada Prices page at CarCostCanada for more details, and remember to download the free CarCostCanada app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store in order to have all their benefits, including dealer invoice pricing, on your device when needed.

The New Porsche 911 GT3 with Touring Package (2:13):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

Whether on the road or track, history tends to repeat itself with Porsche. After attaining the highest podium position in the Canadian Black Book (CBB) “2021 Overall Brand Award – Luxury” for three…

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Latest Canadian Black Book study shows Porsche maintains best retained value leadership

2021 Porsche Panamera GTS — The impressive Panamera four-door coupe has taken top spot for retained value in the Prestige Luxury Car class for eight years running.

Whether on the road or track, history tends to repeat itself with Porsche. After attaining the highest podium position in the Canadian Black Book (CBB) “2021 Overall Brand Award – Luxury” for three years in a row, the German performance brand once again secured top spot in the 2021 study.

While Porsche scores strongly within all the categories it competes in, the Panamera retained the highest percentage of any rival in the Prestige Luxury Car class, and has done so for eight years running. Likewise, the Macan, which took first in its Compact Luxury Crossover category once again, has held the position for three consecutive years, while the 911, dominating the Premium Sporty Car class, is enjoying its second year on top.

2021 Porsche Macan GTS — The superbly sporty Macan, shown here in GTS trim, has retained its value best amongst Compact Luxury Crossover competitors for three years in a row.

“We are honoured and delighted to accept the Overall Brand Award – Luxury as well as three model accolades from Canadian Black Book this year,” stated Marc Ouayoun, President and CEO, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd. “Consumers have many available choices in the market and we welcome these recognitions, which provide an additional reason to consider the brand. These outstanding acknowledgments by the leading authority highlight strong value retentions which ultimately benefit the customer.”

To be clear, the CBB study ranks vehicles on the retained percentage of their manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) after four years. Retaining the highest value means ownership costs less when it comes time for resale or trade-in.

2021 Porsche 911 Cabriolet — The 911, a legend amongst sports cars, managed to earn best retained value in the Premium Sporty Car segment for two consecutive years.

To learn more about the latest Panamera, Macan and 911 models, which are now offered with factory leasing and financing rates from zero-percent, check out the 2021 Porsche Panamera Canada Prices page, the 2021 Porsche Macan Canada Prices page, and the 2022 and 2021 Porsche 911 Canada Prices pages on CarCostCanada, where you can see up-to-date pricing including trims and options, find out about available manufacturer rebates, access dealer invoice pricing that could save you thousands, and more.

Find out how a CarCostCanada membership can keep money in your wallet when you purchase your next new car, and be sure to download their free app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store, so you can have all of this critical info at your fingertips when you need it most.

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

News & Reviews- Tag: 911