Porsche launches new 911 GTS 10 | 01 | 2017
PORSCHE HAS EXPANDED the 911 range with the introduction of new GTS models. Five variants — the 911 Carrera GTS with rear-wheel drive, the 911 Carrera 4 GTS with all-wheel drive (both of the above available as a Coupé and Cabriolet) and the 911 Targa 4 GTS with all-wheel drive, are available to order now from Scottish dealers. First deliveries are expected in March.
Prices range from £94,316 for the 911 Carrera GTS and rise to £108,144 for both the 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet and 911 Targa 4 GTS.
Newly-developed turbochargers for the 3.0-litre flat six-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine increase power to 450hp, an increase of 30hp than the 911 Carrera S and 20hp more than the corresponding prior GTS model with a naturally aspirated engine.
All variants are available with a manual seven-speed gearbox, or the optional PDK) double-clutch transmission.
With its 10% greater maximum torque, the GTS offers even better acceleration and responsiveness. The 550Nm of pull is available between 2150 and 5000 rpm.
As with the Carrera S, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) lowered by 10 mm is standard on all GTS models. However, the GTS Coupé features PASM with sports suspension, which lowers the body by a further 10 mm.
Each GTS also features the Sport Chrono Package incorporating dynamic engine mounts and steering wheel-mounted mode switch, plus a switchable, modified sports exhaust system.
The fastest sprinter in the family is the 911 Carrera 4 GTS: fitted with the optional PDK transmission, it races from zero to 62mph in 3.6 seconds with Launch Control activated. All GTS models have a potential top speed in excess of 190mph. The front-runner is the Coupé, with manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, with a capability of 193 mph.
Despite the increase in performance, and in line with the 911 ethos, the GTS models remain efficient: the 911 Carrera GTS with PDK can return up to 34.0 mpg, and emits 188 g/km CO2
Each of the new GTS models is based on the wider all-wheel-drive chassis, which measures 1852 mm across the rear wheel arches on both the two and four-wheel drive 911 GTS models.
The new Sport Design front apron further emphasises the sporting stance on the road, and the nose is aerodynamically optimised with a low front spoiler. An increase to the rear spoiler extension height also reduces the aerodynamic lift forces both on the front and rear axle compared to the Carrera S models.
From the rear, the GTS is unmistakeable: smoked lens tail lights, silk-gloss black air intake grille and central black-finished twin tailpipes of the sports exhaust system. A new black trim strip between the tail lights characterises the rear-wheel drive models. The illuminated light strip is reserved for the all-wheel drive models.
Sport Design style exterior mirrors, 20-inch diameter alloy wheels with distinctive centre locking hubs painted in silk-gloss black, plus GTS logos on the doors add to the purposeful profile. The characteristic Targa roof bar is finished in black for the first time on the GTS, and adds to the unique style of this 911 Targa.
GTS genes also shape the interior. The stopwatch of the Sport Chrono Package, featured as standard, is integrated as a central component of the fascia. Furthermore, the Porsche Track Precision app has been further enhanced especially to coincide with the launch of the GTS models.
Its features include the capacity for automatic recording, detailed display and analysis of driving data on a smartphone.
A further interior highlight is Alcantara seat trims with a new stitching pattern. The Sports seats Plus with GTS logos on the headrests can be adjusted in four ways electrically and are designed to provide increased lateral support and comfort.
Other highlights include brushed, black anodised aluminium trim strips on the instrument cluster as well as further applications of Alcantara on the steering wheel rim, centre console and armrests.
Customers will also be invited to explore the potential of their new car, and further develop their own skills behind the wheel, by participating in a bespoke, complimentary driving experience around the unique tracks at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.
Related: Roadtest — McLaren 570GT
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Jim McGill