First Look: 2009 Porsche 911

Article - www.motortrend.com

Rumors of Porsche modifying its iconic 911 for the 2009 model year have been proven true, with the German automaker officially announcing the list of changes made to the base and S models of the 911.

At the heart of the updates to the 2009 Porsche 911 models is an infusion of extra horsepower -- 20 more for base 911s with the 3.6-liter flat six and 30 extra ponies for S models equipped with the 3.8-liter mill, bringing output to 345 and 385 horsepower, respectively. Top speed on the Carrera S is now pegged to 188 mph.






The other big news is the addition of Porsche's new, seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch gearbox, which replaces the Tiptronic S automatic. Porsche says that PDK, which was derived in part though its racing efforts, shaves 0.2 seconds off the 911's 0-60 times compared to manual transmission models, with an additional 0.2 second improvement in cars equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Plus package, which includes a launch control feature. Porsche also adds that PDK helps to increase fuel efficiency.

Thanks to the changes, the 2009 911 can now sprint from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds (4.3 with PDK and Sport Chrono), with the 911 S reaching 60 in a scant 4.3 seconds (4.1 with PDK and Sport Chrono), according to Porsche. The automaker has yet to announce how much the PDK will cost, but it will likely be similar to the $3,400 pricetag currently carried by the Tiptronic S.

Some exterior tweaks were made as well. Larger air intakes are fitted in the front bumper and new dual-arm rear-view mirrors improve visibility. Bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime driving lights become standard, with taillights and brake lights converted to LED units as well. Dynamic cornering lights become an option on all models.

Inside, the latest version of the automaker's Porsche Communication Management system -- PCM 3.0 -- which incorporates a new touchscreen feature, will now be standard equipment on all new 911s. Other available options include a navigation system, XM radio with XM NavTraffic capability, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod and USB ports, and an auxiliary jack.

Be prepared to part with a little more money for one of these 2009 911s when they arrive in dealer showrooms in September. Porsche is raising the 911 coupe's price by $2,100 to $75,600, 911 Cabrio and 911 S Coupe's by $2,400 to $86,200, and 911 S Cabrio's by $2,700 to $96,800. Progess, as it turns out, isn't free.