2009 Porsche 911 Facelift: More Power & Double-Clutch Gearbox

Following last night’s leak, Porsche has officially revealed the updated 2009 911 Carrera and Carrera S models that benefit from subtle design changes, more powerful engines with direct injection but most importantly, a new twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox.

But let’s take things from the start. The new 997 can be identified by the new LED tail-lamps that bring to mind the Maserati Granturismo, the restyled air intakes up front, larger mirrors, LED day time driving lights and the newly-designed 18-inch and 19-inch wheels. Inside, minimal changes include the revised Porsche Communication Management (PCM) control system that features a simplified control panel and a larger 6.5-inch display with ‘touchscreen’ technology.

Now to the important changes. The 2009 Carrera and Carrera S models feature new engines that have been enhanced with direct injection that not only helps increase power, but it also reduces CO2 emissions by up to 15%. Maximum output of the 911 Carrera 3.6-litre is up by 20 Hp to 345 Hp while output of the Carrera S 3.8-litre power unit is up by 30 Hp to 385 Hp. Both versions of the 911 can be equipped for the first time with the Porsche’s all-new 7-speed double-clutch gearbox dubbed PDK that replaces the Porsche Tiptronic S automatic transmission. –Continued

According to Porsche, the Carrera goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 4.7 sec and on to a top speed of 289 km/h (180 mph) while the Carrera S needs 4.5 sec for the 0 to 100 km/h sprint featuring a top speed of 302 km/h (188 mph).

Equipped with the seven-speed PDK, the Carrera accelerates in 4.5 sec from 0-100 km/h, another 0.2 sec faster than with a manual six-speed gearbox. Moreover, if you combine the PDK with Porsche’s optional Sport Chrono Plus package that includes launch Control, the 911 Carrera can accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 second. With the PDK, the Carrera also features a better average fuel economy of 9.8 litres/100 km, equal to 28.8 mpg imp or 24 mpg US.

The German sports carmaker has also equipped the Carrera and Carrera S models with the enhanced Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system featured previously on the Carrera 4 and Turbo models. Finally, the 2009 911 Carrera also gets larger 330mm diameter brake discs front and rear.

Base prices in Europe start at €69,600 for the Carrera. The Carrera Cabriolet and Carrera S both retail at €78,000 and the Carrera S Cabriolet is entering the market at €88,000.