Porsche 911: Carrera S a 'revolution'

Porsche 911 Carrera S. Photo / Supplied

The new Porsche 911 is the most revolutionary yet, with more efficient engines, a seven-speed manual box and braver styling.

The most dramatic changes are the more bulbous headlights, with daytime running lamps, as well as sharper tail-lights inspired by the 918.

Inside is a Panamera-style sloping centre console, although the driver-focused 911 makes do with far fewer switches.

Under the skin, the front suspension and steering set-up are shared with the forthcoming Boxster and Cayman. The rear suspension remains unchanged, but lightweight materials reduce the car's weight by up to 45kg.

Porsche will continue to offer its PASM damper system, which allows owners to choose between a series of different driving modes.

The engine range is updated, too, with the Carrera's 3.6-litre replaced by a more efficient 3.4-litre, developing 257kW.

The direct-injection 3.8-litre in the Carrera S gets 294kW.

Performance is as strong as ever; when fitted with the PDK twin-clutch box and the Sport Chrono Pack, the Carrera does zero to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds, slightly faster than before. The Carrera S promises a time of 4.1 seconds.

Handling will be improved, too, thanks to Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control - available on the Carrera S for the first time. The electronic set-up actively reduces cornering body roll.

A seven-speed manual box will be standard, with the seven-ratio PDK an option. Most buyers are likely to go for the latter; it's fitted to around 80 per cent of current 911s.