Out now Porsche performers’ pack
A STREET-LEGAL race car, a wagon and a hybrid hyper sedan — these vehicles comprise the performers’ pack Porsche earlier this month wheeled out at the Geneva International Motor Show.
Making their global debuts at one of the world’s most important auto industry events were Porsche’s latest rendition of the 911 GT3, Panamera Sport Turismo and Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid. The three special models join the existing variants of the 911 sports car and the luxury-focused Panamera model.
The new, two- seat 911 GT3 promises to boost its road and track performance credentials by means of a high-revving 4.0-liter flat-six engine that eschews turbocharging but nonetheless outputs 500hp. Matched to this is either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or — as clamored for by enthusiasts — a six-speed manual gearbox. Combined with a body that has been stripped off some luxuries while getting numerous lightweight carbon-fiber pieces, the 911 GT3 can sprint from a standstill to 100kph in 3.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 318kph (the manual version is half a second slower to 100kph but maxes out at 320kph), according to Porsche’s figures.
Meanwhile, the 911 GT3’s redesigned chassis, low ride height (it sits 25 millimeters closer to the ground than a 911 Carrera S) and active rear- axle steering, which turns either in the opposite or in
the same direction as the front wheels, guarantee both quick reflexes and stability. Dynamic engine mounts and a rear differential lock also improve the car’s balance during on-the-limit driving. Marking out this most purposeful of 911s are unique aerodynamic aids.
Porsche noted the 911 GT3 was developed and is built alongside its racing-car brethren.
In Sport Turismo form the Panamera gets a new body style — a wagon that has become the production version of a well-received concept car Porsche has touted in the past years. Fitted in the rear with a large tailgate that has a low loading edge, the Panamera Sport Turismo sees a huge leap in dailyuse practicality via increased cargo space and what Porsche refers to as a 4+1 seating arrangement (it means a fifth person can squeeze in the backseat).
Now while the wagon rear made the Panamera more functional without compromising posh, the car remains a performer; Porsche said that the Sport Turismo can churn out as much as 550hp if it’s equipped with the brand’s new twin- turbo, 4.0- liter V8. In this spec, the wagon can match its 911 GT3 sibling’s performance in a 100kph sprint.
Incidentally, the Sport Turismo configuration is offered in any of the Panamera’s five existing variants — 4, 4S, 4S Diesel, 4 E-Hybrid and Turbo.
For its part, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid simultaneously raises the nameplate’s performance and eco credentials. This new plug-in hybrid — now the Panamera flagship — combines a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 with an electric motor, allowing it to spin out 680hp and an astounding 850Nm of torque, with the grunt available from just above idle speed, according to Porsche. The car maker added such ratings are enough to hurl this eco Panamera from rest to 100kph in only 3.4 seconds, with maximum speed pegged at 310kph. All this with CO emissions of only 66 grams per kilometer.
Potent, this pack of performers is. —