Porsche engineers are testing prototypes for an updated 911 range and a new one has been spotted.
Previously, we brought you spy footage of prototypes for the updated 911 Turbo, 911 Turbo S, and 911 Carrera Cabriolet. Our latest shots reveal what will likely be the updated 911 Carrera Coupé.
The current 911 came in 2018 as a 2020 model, initially in Carrera and Turbo versions. Given the 911’s typical lifespan of seven to eight years, we should see this updated version in 2023, likely as a 2024 model.
The styling changes will be minor, with the prototype revealing a new front fascia design with larger intakes with likely active vertical flaps. There is also an additional sensor under the license plate and new internals for the headlights. The turn signals have also been integrated into the headlights instead of on the front fascia as in the current design.
At the rear, there is a new design for taillights, which now feature dual bars. We also note a new design for the side engine vents, as well as exhaust tailpipes placed closer to the center. This supports rumors that a new engine may be introduced with this update, specifically a larger, naturally aspirated engine like Porsche’s 4.0-litre flat-6 offered in the 718 range, which starts at 394bhp. The current Carrera models come with a biturbo 3.0-liter 6-seater that starts at 379 hp.
There’s something to the rumours. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Porsche’s chief engineer for the 911, said in an interview for 2020 that new emissions regulations planned for Europe mid-decade will see larger engines return in favor of downsized units. The new rules appear to aim to bring lab-tested fuel economy in line with real-world numbers.
We also expect to see a hybrid option added to the Carrera with this update. The updated Turbo is also said to have a hybrid option.
We also have some interior shots showing a revised dashboard design. Porsche plans to add a larger infotainment screen and a new instrument cluster that will be fully digital like in the Taycan. The current design sticks with an analog gauge for the center-mounted tachometer. It seems there will be no redesign for the current dual-clutch automatic shifter, which resembles an electric razor.