Following the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Porsche today unveiled the 911 GT3 R, a race car based on the international FIA GT3 regulations that succeed the 911 GT3 Cup S. Porsche says that the main focus on creating another GT3 Cup model was to offer better drivability and even easier handling.

Power for the 911 GT3 R comes from a 4.0L 6-cylinder boxer engine turning out 480-hp with power transmitted to the rear-wheels by a sequential 6-speed dog gearbox.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R will make its world debut on Jan. 14, 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. Prices for the model start at 279,000 euros plus local sales tax/VAT.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R:

Press Release:

New Racing Version for International GT Sport

Stuttgart. Following the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is entering yet another racing car in the 2010 motorsport season: The 911 GT3 R will be raced in series based on the international FIA GT3 regulations, thus succeeding the 911 GT3 Cup S. The main focus in developing this new model was on even better drivability and even easier handling.

The 911 GT3 R is powered by a four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine delivering maximum output of 480 bhp (353 kW) transmitted to the rear axle by a sequential six-speed dog gearbox.

The starting point in developing the 911 GT3 R weighing just 1,200 kg or 2,646 lb was the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup presented in September for one-make cup racing. Thanks to its increase in engine size by 0.2 litres, the GT3 R offers 30 bhp more than the Cup model. Both cars are based on the extra-wide body of the 911 GT3 RS street-legal sports car.

An anti-lock brake system (ABS), traction control and an e-gas with “throttle-blip” function make it much easier to get used to this new GT3 racing car than its predecessor, meaning that the new model is also more appropriate for the ambitious amateur racing driver.

Flared wheel arches added on to the body both front and rear bear clear testimony to the wider track than on the former model. And like all second-generation versions of the 911, the new 911 GT3 R also comes with striking LED rear light clusters.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R is making its world debut on 14 January 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. The car is built by Porsche’s Motorsport Department at the Weissach Development Centre and will be delivered to Customer Teams the world over as of spring 2010. The base price of the Porsche 911 GT3 R is 279,000 euros plus local sales tax/VAT.

- By: Kap Shah

If you’ve recently made a trip to the mall, your local Starbucks or even to your local car dealership, you’ve noticed that many retailers have started decorating their stores for the holiday season. Well, a Porsche dealership in the Netherlands is going beyond just adding some lights and a Christmas tree to its store.

To decorate his dealership, Mark Weghe of Porsche Centrum Gelderland invited out the general manager of Barry Callebaut Group (one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world), Eric-Jan Straathof, to cover a brand new 911 Carrera S in chocolate.  Of course before Mark let Eric throw chocolate over a brand new Porsche in his dealership, he wrapped it neatly with plastic.

The chocolate covered 911 Carrera S will remain in the dealership until the end of year. If you’re thinking “oh it will easily melt away,” think again – the temperature in the showroom will be kept under 27 degrees Celsius until 2009 comes to an end.

Chocolate Covered 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Porsche (via autoblog.nl)

We have just received some new images of the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder, which will make its debut at the 2009 LA Auto Show next month. We’ll be in LA live covering the show, so make sure you join us on Dec. 2 to see some live photos.

Click here to view our original post on the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

Refresher: Weighing in at 2,811 pounds, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is powered by a 3.4L 6-cylinder engine with direct fuel-injection making 320-hp. Mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission and the Sports Chrono package, the Boxster Spyder goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

Click through for the updated high-res image gallery.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

- By: Omar Rana

Porsche Automobile Holding SE significantly slashed its dividend after posting a massive pretax loss of 4.4 billion euro ($6.60 billion USD), The report confirms a profit warning Porsche issued just days before its 2008/2009 fiscal year ended on July 31.

Porsche SE said that the main factor for the loss was a write-down on cash settlement options to Volkswagen shares. Last year, Porsche cash-settled Volkswagen stock options giving it windfall gains of 8.57 billion euros.

Porsche said that the results were also influenced by the “hidden reserves and liabilities” identified in the course of the purchase price allocation for the shareholding in Volkswagen.

Volkswagen is set to take 49.9 percent in Porsche in the first step towards a full merger by 2011. The company is expected to pay approximately EUR 3.9 billion ($5.82 billion USD) for Porsche.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Reuters

Last week, Chris Harris dropped us an email with a link to a video of his test-drive of the Ferrari 458 Italia. This week, Chris emailed us a video of him behind the new 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Furthermore, the last part of the video shows him taking the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup around the track.

And we thought we had fun doing our job of writing about and test-driving cars.

Refresher: Power comes from a 3.8L unit that delivers more output, revving up to 8,500 rpm while producing a neck-snapping 450-hp. Sales in the U.S. begin in early spring of 2010 with prices starting at $132,800.

Click through for the video.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS:

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: EVO

Techart has introduced a modification program for the new 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S that offers up to 35 more horsepower.

The modification includes a new exhaust system with two manifolds and a stainless steel Sportkatanlage, muffler with exhaust flap control unit and an exhaust valve doppelovale tailpipes in gloss black or chrome. All that results in an increase from 385-hp to 420-hp.

To enhance aerodynamics, Techart added a new front spoiler, a roof spoiler and rear wing, a new rear diffuser and new side skirts.

Check out more details after the jump.

Techart 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S:

Press Release:

TECHART Program for Porsche 997 – new performance kit for significantly more power

Leonberg, November 2009 – In an unmistakable look at the IAA be presented TECHART program for the current Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. The individualized Porsche brings perfection of form, sportiness and dynamism, and once again embodies the basic principle of all TECHART products: OEM quality – made in Germany. Available now in the program with this is the new Performance: The components include the exhaust valve “Racing” and a new engine electronics for a notable increase in output by up to 35 hp.

New TECHART performance kit
For the Porsche Carrera S and 4S all-wheel version of one developed TECHART performance kit for listening and feeling. The kit includes a new engine management software and an exhaust valve in the variant “Racing”. The exhaust system includes two manifolds and a stainless steel Sportkatanlage, muffler with exhaust flap control unit and an exhaust valve doppelovale tailpipes in gloss black or chrome. The driver can thereby switch between a sporty-production sound or a powerful racing sound. Overall, the new performance kit provides a clearly noticeable performance increase of 35 horsepower – in the upper rpm range. Optionally, a pure exhaust valve of the variant “sport” is available which, although not a performance boost, it also provides the individual sound experience. The facility consists of muffler with exhaust valve, exhaust valve control unit, and doppelovalen tailpipes in gloss black or chrome.

Aerodynamics and Design
The TÜV-certified Aerokit I is the successful result of intensive development work in the wind tunnel. This increased to improve the use PUR-RIM components of downforce on the axles and also the stability. The front spoiler I, highlights the dynamics of the 911 Carrera and provides by streamlining the flow of air for effective cooling of the brake system. Side emphasizing the powerful sidelines. A roof spoiler and rear wing, three different variants, depending on the requirements to enable an accurate aerodynamic set at the rear. Thus, the variable rear wing IV pitot-air channels and integrates an additional adjustable trailing edge (Gurney flap). The dynamic nature are further complicated by decorative screens for the outside mirrors – made from carbon fiber painted in desired color, Scheinwerferzierblenden, a deep-seated rear diffuser and the new sport exhaust systems emphasized.

TECHART suspension
For sporty, tight handling makes next to a sports spring kit also TECHART TECHART threaded chassis VARIO. For vehicles with PASM, the variant VARIO PLUS is available. Both systems are equipped with threaded shock absorbers with adjustable train and rebound as well as specific main and auxiliary springs. TECHART Formula II and Formula light-alloy wheels, a five-spoked wheel in one or multipieced design underline this sportiness. For the new 911 models is also the TECHART Formula III forged light-alloy forged in the twin-spoke design Available in sizes 19 – and 20-inches. Optional is also the TECHART Noseliftsystem available to overcome curbs or other ramps. By pressing a button the car can be increased by up to 60 millimeters – even while driving up to 60 km / h.

Independent to the last detail: The interior
A wealth of different leather interiors, matching 3-spoke airbag sports steering wheels, aluminum pedals and trim are just a few extras. Custom design is limited by the TECHART-Manufactory almost no limits. The silver-colored accents are inter alia in the dashboard and Türzierteilen, placed at the aperture of the infotainment system in the center console, seat-back trays and coat hooks.

- By: Kap Shah

Earlier this morning we saw the lightest model available in Porsche’s lineup – the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder. We now have a video of it in action – check it out after the jump.

Click here to view our original post on the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

Refresher: Weighing in at 2,811 pounds, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is powered by a 3.4L 6-cylinder engine with direct fuel-injection making 320-hp. Mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission and the Sports Chrono package, the Boxster Spyder goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

Make the jump for the video.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

- By: Kap Shah

The 2009 LA Auto Show is just weeks away and we’ll be on hand providing you live coverage. One of things we are now looking forward to is the “lightest Porsche” available – the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

The model is the newest member of the Boxster family and will go on sale February 2010.

Weighing in at just 2,811 pounds, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is powered by a 3.4L 6-cylinder engine with direct fuel-injection making 320-hp (10 more than the Boxster S). Mated to Porsche’s 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission and the Sports Chrono package, the Boxster Spyder goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

Pricing will start at $61,200.

Make the jump for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

Press Release:

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder: Light, Powerful, Purist Roadster to be Introduced at Los Angeles Auto Show

Porsche’s newest entry will be the lightest in its line-up

ATLANTA “November 5, 2009“ Weighing in at just 2,811 lbs., the new 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder will be the lightest Porsche available“ from a company known for lightweight, proficient sports cars. This new mid-engined roadster represents the true, purist form of the sports car “agile, powerful, open and efficient. This third Boxster model will join the Boxster and Boxster S and will make its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, December 2, 2009.

The newest member of the Boxster family stands out from the other versions of Porsche’s mid-engined roadster. Its low-slung, lightweight soft top “when closed“ extends far to the rear to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and weather. This top, when combined with extra-low side windows and two striking bulges on the single-piece rear lid, provides the Boxster Spyder with a sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Carrera GT.

The Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-liter six-cylinder engine with Direct Fuel Injection upfront of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 horsepower (hp), 10 hp more than the Boxster S. The combination of 10 more hp and 176 pounds less weight than the award-winning Boxster S, plus an all-new sport suspension that lowers the Boxster Spyder 20 mm, a lower center of gravity, a standard limited slip differential, and exclusive wheels provides the kind of driving dynamics that back up the unique look. Aluminum door skins and lightweight interior door panels from the 911 GT3 RS contribute to the weight reduction.

When equipped with Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission and the Sports Chrono Package, the new Spyder, using Launch Control, accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Top track speed is 166 mph“ with the roof open.

Fundamentally, the entire Boxster family is the successor to the legendary 550 Spyder and RS 60 of the Fifties and Sixties, all sharing the same mid-engine roadster concept. Low weight and supreme agility combine to provide outstanding driving pleasure.

In 2004 and 2008 Porsche produced limited editions of the Boxster bearing the additional name Spyder, honoring the 550 and RS 60. In contrast, the new Boxster Spyder is a regular, but specially developed and upgraded production model as compared with the Boxster and Boxster S.

The 2011 Boxster Spyder goes on sale February 2010. U.S. pricing is $61,200.

- By: Kap Shah

It seems like Porsche’s new four-door Panamera is off to a good start in the United States. According to Porsche Cars North America COO Michael Bartsch, the automaker has sold 983 units of the Panamera sedan, which went on sale in the U.S. on Oct. 17.

“We now have a new level of floor traffic and inquiry, and there is a multiplier effect,” Bartsch said in an interview with Automotive News. “This is bringing a level of business back to the dealerships and is allowing them to start the process of recovering.”

Bartsch would not provide a forecast as to how many Panamera units Porsche hopes to sell in the U.S. in 2010 due to uncertain market conditions. However, he did say that he expects to receive about 1,200 orders for the Panamera in the U.S. in 2009. In 2010, Porsche has plans to produce 20,000 Panamera units, with 4,000 to 6,000 for the U.S. market.

Porsche’s overall U.S. sales were down 32 percent to 14,310 units through the first nine months of 2009. In all of 2008, sales were down 25 percent to 26,035 units.

Click here for more news on the Porsche Panamera.

2010 Porsche Panamera:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Yesterday we heard about what Porsche has planned for the next four years. One thing AutoCar conveniently left out was that Porsche is getting ready to roll out a new entry-level sports car that will share components from the upcoming compact Audi R4 sports car.

Known internally as the ‘356′, the mid-engined sports car will not be a bargain model, despite what early rumors have been saying for some time now. If given the green light, the model would cost anywhere from £33,000 in today’s money.

The entry-level 356 will share the aluminum platform that’s currently being produced for the Audi R4 mid-engined sports car. The Audi R4 is due out sometime in 2011; however, the Porsche version of the model isn’t due out until 2012.

Insiders say that the production 356 will be powered by a forced-induction flat 4-cylinder engine that is currently under development at Stuttgart. We’re guessing a 6-clyinder option will also be made available.

Porsche hasn’t released any details on its upcoming flat-four engine, but Porsche sales and marketing boss Klaus Bening told AutoCar “that there is a clear trend towards downsizing, using smaller powerplants and supercharging. We will find our own conclusion to downsizing”.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

UK publication AutoCar is outlining Porsche product plans for the next four years. If they are to believed, we have a couple of exciting things coming from Porsche’s garage.

First up, Porsche has a V6 and a diesel version planned for the new 2010 Panamera sedan. Both models will be a little more affordable than their more powerful V8 siblings.

Following that, a new redesigned Porsche Cayenne is due out sometime in 2010.  The Porsche SUV will receive some modifications to the headlights and taillights along with a reworked direct-injected V8 as seen in the Panamera. A hybrid version of the Cayenne will arrive in 2011 with fuel-economy improvements of up to 30 percent.

The already confirmed Panamera Hybrid is also due out in 2011.

Porsche will give the 911 sports coupe a facelift in the summer of 2012 with some engineering enhancements including a modification to the steel floorpan and an extended wheelbase by 50mm to 2400mm and an upgraded suspension.

Also in the works is the much-rumored compact SUV known as the Rockster, which will fit below the Cayenne. It will use some of the body engineering from the Audi Q5.

Last but not least, it is reported that a Coupe and Convertible version of the Panamera are also in the works. The model will compete against the likes of the Maserati GranTurismo and the GranTurismo Convertible. Look out for the drop-top Panamera in 2013.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

The new 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS recently hit up the Nordschleife at the Nurburgring where it returned an unofficial lap time of 7:33 – seven seconds faster than the Porsche 911 GT3. An unnamed Porsche test-drive took the new 911 GT3 RS around the Nordschleife during some light traffic, a stopwatch and a helmet.

That compares fairly well to the Nissan GT-R’s 7:27.56 and the Gumpert Apollo’s 7:11.57.

Refresher: Power comes from a 3.8L unit that delivers more output, revving up to 8,500 rpm while producing a neck-snapping 450-hp. Sales in the U.S. begin in early spring of 2010 with prices starting at $132,800.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: EVO

Earlier this week, Volkswagen released a statement saying that it plans to complete its merger with Porsche during the course of 2011.

According to Michael Macht of Porsche, the sports car maker is prepared to share the Panamera and 911 platforms with other Volkswagen Group brands.

“Porsche needs to become a strong pillar of VW, as well as having its own production and research and development capabilities. It is important to 
use synergies as well as having independence,” Macht said. “The Panamera platform could be used by other brands for models that are in development and at the concept stage.”

When asked if Porsche’s 911 platform was also set to be shared with other brands in Volkswagen, Macht said that it could be made available on other vehicles under Volkswagen’s umbrella.

As for engine sharing, Porsche will only use Volkswagen V6 in its Cayenne SUV. Other than that Macht said that “engine development is a core value for Porsche” and the company will work to stick to its core values.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

We just received an email from Lotus with subject reading “How many Porsches did you see today?” Catching our interest right away we opened the email to see a marketing pitch for the new Lotus Evora.

The email read:

The new Lotus Evora marks a return to the sports cars you dreamt of when growing up. Porsches are nice cars, but they’re everywhere these days, whereas with only 400 available over the next 12 months, you definitely can’t say that about the new Lotus Evora.

Along with 60 years of sports car heritage, the 3.5-litre V6 Evora comes with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty and residual values comparable to those of Porsche.

And to show you exactly what we mean, we’d like to invite you to contact any of our authorised Evora dealers (you’ll find their details inside the downloadable brochure) and experience what it feels like to drive a sports car with true character.

Click here so you don’t miss out on your chance to own an Evora. However, if you’re too late, we’re sure you’ll have no trouble finding something at www.porsche.com.

Luke Bennett
Operations Director

Roger Becker
Vehicle Engineering Director

Just thought we’d share it with you.

By: Kap Shah

Volkswagen AG announced today that it will take a 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG in a first step towards a merger with the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer.

“This was agreed between Volkswagen and Porsche SE during negotiations on the contracts of implementation relating to the merger of the two companies,” Volkswagen said in a statement. “The Comprehensive Agreement announced in August referred to an initial participation in Porsche AG amounting to 42 percent.”

Volkswagen said that it will acquire a participation in the operating business of Porsche by the end of 2009 and is looking to complete the full merger process during the course of 2011.

“Volkswagen is thus securing a higher share of the increase in the value of Porsche expected from the joint projects at an early stage, the German automaker said. “At the same time, Volkswagen remains committed to the phased integration of the two companies and is preserving the independence and the interests of Porsche.”

Volkswagen is expected to pay approximately EUR 3.9 billion ($5.82 billion USD) for Porsche.

- By: Omar Rana

Jeremy Clarkson has a tendency to be very straightforward and honest; and we respect that. Speaking on the 2010 Porsche Panamera, Clarkson says that the sedan seems to have no purpose at all.

“I understand, of course, why Porsche chose to build a four-door saloon, Clarkson wrote over at TimesOnline. “It’s the same reason Lamborghini started work on such a thing, and Aston Martin too. These are small companies and it makes economic sense to squeeze as many models as possible from every component.”

While Clarkson complements the design of the Lamborghini Estoque and the Aston Martin Rapide, he says that Porsche gave the job of designing the Panamera “to a janitor.”

“The Panamera, though, is worse. People have tried to be kind, saying that it’s challenging and that it’s unusual. But the simple fact of the matter is this: it’s as ugly as an inside-out monkey. It’s dreadful.”

Click here for more news on the Porsche Panamera.

Refresher: The $89,800 Porsche Panamera S is powered by a 400-hp V8 allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 175 mph. $93,800 Panamera 4S is powered by the same 400-hp V8. The $132,600 Porsche Panamera Turbo is powered by a turbocharged V8 making 500-hp allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds with a top speed of 188 mph.

2010 Porsche Panamera:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: TimesOnline

Porsche has released its first 2010 Porsche Panamera TV commercial.

The Stuttgart automaker says that the new Panamera is “ 60 years of uncompromising beliefs” – so watch as Porsche family gathers to welcome its newest four-door sibling.

Click here for more news on the Porsche Panamera.

Refresher: The $89,800 Porsche Panamera S is powered by a 400-hp V8 allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 175 mph. $93,800 Panamera 4S is powered by the same 400-hp V8. The $132,600 Porsche Panamera Turbo is powered by a turbocharged V8 making 500-hp allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds with a top speed of 188 mph.

Follow the jump for the video.

2010 Porsche Panamera:

2010 Porsche Panamera:

- By: Omar Rana

Mansory has released the first images of their modification package for the new 2010 Porsche Panamera. Mansory says it turned the “four-door Gran Turismo into a power pack which is even more dynamic and exclusive and most of all has a significantly more distinct appearance.”

While no details on technical upgrades were released, Mansory said that their version of the Panamera is fitted with new “aerodynamics components in high-strength polyurethane and Prepreg-Autoclav-Carbon.” Mansory lowered the Panamera 35 mm and added 21-inch wheels and a new sport exhaust system.

We’ll provide more details as we get them. For now enjoy these high-res photos.

Click here for more news on the Porsche Panamera.

Follow the jump for the high-res image gallery.

Mansory Porsche Panamera Gran Turismo:

Press Release:

Masculine appearance for the Porsche Gran Turismo

MANSORY Switzerland enhances the Porsche Panamera. The specialist for exclusive refinement of premium automobiles turns the four-door Gran Turismo into a power pack which is even more dynamic and exclusive and most of all has a significantly more distinct appearance.

Originally, the company owner Kourosh Mansory solely focused on British luxury cars, but meanwhile he has also proven his talent for Italian brands such as the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano and automobiles like the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. After the Chopster Cayenne, the Panamera is already the second Porsche which is given the honour to become entirely modified by MANSORY.

Also, the new Porsche will receive an individual design language according to the MANSORY tradition. Its engineers produce the new aerodynamics components in high-strength polyurethane (PU-RIM) and Prepreg-Autoclav-Carbon, the characteristic material for MANSORY. As the car is lowered by 35 millimetres and equipped with new wheels measuring 9,5×21 and 11,5×21 inches as well as a sport exhaust system, the new personality of the Panamera becomes significantly more visual and audible.

In order to provide the driver directly with the experience of an automobile refined by MANSORY, the engineers included extensive refinements. A widespread leather interior can be individually matched with the most precious woods, finest varnish or dynamic carbon. The pedals made of brushed aluminium perfect the interior equipment. With the newly designed sports steering wheel, the driver can feel the elegance of the refined Porsche straight in his hands.

MANSORY Switzerland bestows an individual appearance to the Porsche Panamera. The complex refinement turns a sports car for journeys into a characteristic personality – after all a real MANSORY.

- By: Kap Shah