By Staff Reporter

A fan of both the 911 coupe and cabriolet but can’t settle on either one, the new generation Targa is here to save the day as it has been doing so for 911 Porsche lovers since 1965. The Targa distinguishes itself by offering a cabriolet feel whilst maintaining the look of the coupe at the rear. This is achieved by a retractable cloth covering for the front seat section, Targa bar and a wraparound design at the back instead of the traditional rear, and three-quarter windows. Making the new 911 Targa likeable even more is that the roof can be opened or closed in a mere 19 seconds.

Power

The new all-wheel drive 911 Targa 4 and 911 Targa models are powered by a six-cylinder, three-litre boxer engine with twin turbochargers. The 911 Targa 4 now delivers 283 kW (11 Kw more than its predecessor) and 450 Nm. In combination with the optional Sport Chrono package, the 911 Targa 4 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds (one tenth faster than before).

The engine in the 911 Targa 4S boasts 331 kW (22 kW more output than its predecessor) and 530 Nm (up 30 Nm), and reaches the 100 km/h mark in just 3.6 (four tenths faster than its predecessor). Top speed of the 911 Targa 4 is 289 km/h (up two km/h), while the 4S peaks at 304 km/h (up three km/h).

Both sports cars are fitted with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and intelligent all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) as standard. Alternatively, the 911 Targa 4S can be ordered with the newly developed seven-speed manual gearbox, which includes the Sport Chrono package.

Looks

The exterior of the 911 Targa follows the design elements of its 992 model generation. Compared to its predecessors, its body features significantly more pronounced wheel housings at the front and, between its LED headlights, its bonnet has a distinctive recess evoking the design of the first 911 generations. Its rear is dominated by its wider, variably extending rear spoiler and integrated light bar.

The interior echoes the 911 Carrera models and is inspired by 911 models from the 1970s. Alongside the central rev counter, a defining feature for Porsche, two thin, frameless freeform displays extend the information provided to the driver. A compact switch unit with five buttons for direct access to important vehicle functions is located below the 10.9-inch centre screen of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM).

Local availability

Expect the new 911 Targa to reach our shores towards the end of 2020.