New Porsche 911 previewed

The n/a GT3's days are numbered, as turbocharging beckons for entire 911 range

The oft repeated gripe with many modern sports cars is that all the technology and safety gubbins get in the way of the driving experience. So, despite its insistence that the driver will remain at the centre of proceeding, Porsche's announcement that autonomous and hybrid tech will soon feature in its upcoming 992 will be a concerning overture to many. The disguised 992 shown off by model director August Achleitner may only be a small step on from the current model design-wise, but it will take a huge leap technologically, with electrification not categorically ruled out - a hybrid 911 is said to be coming in 2020 spurred on by CO2 regulations.

We'll start with the biggest news. All engines throughout the range are expected to get power increases thanks to turbocharging, including the GT3. Yes, the days of the naturally aspirated GT3 are over. The Turbo S, meanwhile, is to borrow engine hardware from the current GT2 RS, with enough power (630hp) to trouble a Ferrari 488, though Porsche's engineers are said to have decided against a hybrid option in favour of weight savings for now. Even the more modest 911 Turbo will have 600hp, be able to crack 200mph and hit 62mph in under 3 seconds, whilst the rest of the 911 range will see power outputs between 380hp and 435hp.

As an evolution of the MMB platform which the current 911 is based on, the 992 also will have a wider front and rear track, making use of high-strength steel and aluminium to keep the weight down. The full-width wing we have seen in spy shots is a first, improving stability. Inside, changes are coming to the instrument binnacle with two digital screens protruding from either side of an analogue rev counter - an evolution of Audi's virtual cockpit - while spy shots have revealed a Panamera style screen and a smaller, less tactile gear selector. Behind the scenes, lane keep assist and other "convenient and useful things" will add a degree of autonomy to the new range, making small adjustments to the steering to keep the car between the white lines when active.

Talking about the impending changes, Achleitner reiterated that the 911 remains at the heart of the company. "We know where we are from and where we want to go... the decisive factor is that a 911 generates a driving feeling that no other can impart." On the subject of driver assistance features he continued, "the customer has to make the choice to use them and above all, be able to switch them off when they're not desired." For now, at least.

[Spyshots: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien]