For the 911, expect the turbo version of the Cabriolet with a soft-top folding roof that actually adds some weight over the hardtop. Just around the corner are the 911 Targa and GT3 RS version, the latter featuring weight-saving carbon-fiber parts and a naturally aspirated 3.8L flat-six. An RS version of the Cayman is also due soon. Probably the most exciting 911 is the 997 version of the GT2 rear driver that weighs significantly less than the already potent AWD Turbo. Power should be roughly 10 percent over the Turbo, somewhere close to 525hp.
The first of Porsche’s all new models is the upcoming four-door Panamera. The new car will feature a front-mounted 4.5L V8 developing 340hp in naturally aspirated form, but expect an S edition with over 500hp thanks to the Cayenne’s twin-turbo set up. A high-performance V6 and possibly even a hybrid powerplant may feature in lower spec versions.
Other cars include the next generation 911 that will be limited to an engine below 4.0L in displacement because of the flat-six design. To improve on performance, expect extensive use of aluminium to help save on weight. The front-engined Panamera platform could also spawn a successor to the 928 coupe and apparently, there could even be a small Porsche SUV positioned below the Cayenne and based on Audi’s Q5 architecture. Of key interest is the replacement for the Carrera GT, one of the most successful supercars of all time.