New for 2016

The 911 gets a major overhaul for the new model year, with some visual updates, proliferation of turbocharged engines throughout the lineup, a new Porsche Communication Management system, and other changes.

The Legend Continues

How do you improve on a legend? In its various incarnations, the Porsche 911 has been on sale for over 50 years, and has been the backbone of the Porsche lineup for most of it. The car’s distinctive styling, character, and rear-engine design have made updates particularly difficult, as Porsche has had to balance the need to improve with the expectations of fans.

Yet Porsche is trying again. At the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, it unveiled a mid-cycle refresh of the current, 991-generation 911. It may not please everyone, but the 2016 Porsche 911 should keep the brand moving forward.

Powertrains and Performance

There are many Porsche 911 variants, but the refreshed lineup will launch with the 911 Carrera and Carrera S models that are more or less the foundation of the range. Updates that launch with these two models may be added to other variants in the future.

Perhaps the biggest news for the updated 911 is the use of turbocharged engines in these more mainstream models; turbos were previously reserved for the 911 Turbo and GT2. The new engine is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six, which produces 370 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque in the standard Carrera, and 420 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque in the Carrera S. A seven-speed manual or dual-clutch PDK will likely remain the two transmission choices. Rear-wheel drive will be standard, with all-wheel drive optional.

Both versions of the 911 get boosts in performance, Porsche says. With the PDK and Sport Chrono package—the fastest configuration—the 911 Carrera will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, and reach a top speed of 183 mph, while the Carrera S will do 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and top out at 191 mph. Porsche also expects increased fuel economy from the downsized engine, although official EPA ratings aren’t available yet.

The Sport Chrono package also adds a driving-mode switch on the steering wheel, adapted from the setup used in Porsche’s 918 Spyder hybrid supercar. The rotary switch allows drivers to choose between Normal, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is standard, and can lower ride height by 10 millimeters on command. A rear-wheel steering system adapted from the hardcore 911 GT3 is also available.

Features and Trims

The 2016 Porsche 911 will be offered as a two-door, four-seat coupe or convertible when it goes on sale in March 2016. Pricing will start at $89,400.*

Full details on trim levels and equipment will be released closer to the on-sale date, but expect the updated model to boast a similarly-high level of equipment to the current version. One new feature that’s already been confirmed is a Porsche Communication Management infotainment system. It features a 7.0-inch touchscreen that also recognizes handwriting. There’s also a Wi-Fi connection for smartphones, and available Apple CarPlay® interface for iPhone users.

The system’s navigation includes Google Earth™ and Google Streetview™ information, and real-time traffic information is also available to give drivers a better idea of the traffic situation in their area. The Porsche Car Connect and Connect Plus module also adds remote vehicle control functions, the ability to transfer destinations to the navigation system, and access streaming music services.

Design

The 2016 Porsche 911 features a tasteful update of the classic 911 design. It retains familiar features like the round headlights and fastback rear, but everything has been tweaked and refined. The headlight elements now feature four-point daytime running lights, and integrated door handle recesses make for a cleaner look. The front fascia is also changes slightly, with reshaped lower air intakes.

At the back, the redesigned rear decklid features vertical louvers (this is still a rear-engined car, remember), rather than the previous horizontal ones. The redesigned taillights feature four-point elements like the headlights, and the bumper has been altered to include some extra ridges and gills. There are also new standard wheels with a twin five-spoke design.

The interior remains largely the same (why fix what isn’t broken?), but does get some notable updates, including a 918 Spyder-inspired steering wheel, and the 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen.

Safety

The 2016 Porsche 911’s safety equipment will be detailed closer to the car’s on-sale date.

Bottom Line

We'll be sure to give our final verdict once the 2016 Porsche 911 launches. Until then, be sure to contact us online or visit us at 3Birds Template to schedule a test drive of any of our new or pre-owned models.

*Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.

Image: Porsche