You could ask whether the sports car is still relevant. It would be a good question, but you might as well ask the same of dreams.

The answer to both questions lies in the future or, to be more precise, in the future of the sports car. In the 911, the future is already here. The highly efficient, state-of-the-art engines make a considerable contribution to the comparatively low fuel consumption, but their sound is still unmistakably Porsche.

The 911 engines are also unmistakably sporty thanks to the SPORT button fitted as standard. At the push of a button, the engine becomes tuned for a sharper response and engine dynamics that are even more direct.

The 3.4-litre engine of the 911 Carrera models demonstrates, therefore, that performance and efficiency need not be mutually exclusive. Rather, the downsized engine capacity and increased maximum torque are the intelligent basis by which power output can be increased in an environmentally acceptable and sustainable way. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by up to 16% compared with the previous model.

In their search for improved efficiency, our engineers analysed an extensive series of engine components. Answers were found, including rapid heating of the engine and gearbox to normal operating temperature after an engine start by the thermal management system, improved air induction and extremely effective direct fuel injection (DFI).

The same principle applies to the 3.8-litre engine in the 911 Carrera S models. There has been no change in displacement since the previous model, but power output has been increased while fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 15%.

Weight is critical to efficiency. This is why the engines have a light-alloy construction, making them lightweight and yet structurally rigid. The result is comparatively low fuel consumption and a long service life.

The engine is the intelligent core of our identity. What else could the ‘Dr. Ing. ’ in our company name possibly stand for?

The 911 Carrera base models are equipped with a 3.4-litre boxer engine with direct fuel injection (DFI) and VarioCam Plus. It develops 257 kW (350 hp) at 7,400 rpm and the maximum torque is 390 Nm at 5,600 rpm.

For the 911 Carrera with 7-speed manual gearbox, this means acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 289 km/h. The new 911 Carrera 4 accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 285 km/h.

The 911 Carrera S models are powered by a 3.8-litre boxer engine with direct fuel injection (DFI) and VarioCam Plus. It produces 294 kW (400 hp) at 7,400 rpm and the maximum torque of 440 Nm is achieved at 5,600 rpm.

With optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), the 911 Carrera S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and achieves a top speed of 302 km/h. The new Carrera 4S completes the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 4.3 seconds and boasts a top speed of 297 km/h.

The EMS SDI 9.1 engine management system ensures optimum engine performance at all times. It controls, for example, the position of the electronic throttle valve (ETC) – a prerequisite for compatibility with the Porsche Stability Management (PSM), which comes as standard. It also regulates all engine-related functions to achieve optimum fuel consumption, emissions and power output whatever the driving style.

Another function is the cylinder-specific knock control. Since the cylinders never all work under exactly the same conditions, the knock control function monitors each one separately. The ignition point is shifted individually, as and when necessary, to protect the cylinders and pistons at high

engine speeds.

For compliance with EU standards, the on-board diagnostics detect any faults and defects that may occur in the exhaust and fuel systems and then notify the driver immediately. This also prevents increased pollutant emissions and unnecessary fuel consumption.

A widely held belief about motorsport is that power is the only thing that matters. From experience, we know better. Extra horsepower alone has never been enough to win a single race. Much more important to us are ideas – ideas that inspire more intelligent vehicle concepts and more efficient drive systems. The same applies on the road. It’s about getting the most out of what you’ve got.

The Auto Start/Stop function is standard in the 911 Carrera models.

In cars with the manual gearbox, the engine switches off automatically when, for example, you stop

at traffic lights, select neutral and release the clutch pedal. In cars with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), the engine switches off whenever you stop and leave your foot on the brake pedal.

All audio and communication systems remain switched on and the climate control continues to maintain your selected temperature. The only differences you will notice are the silence at the rear and the fuel saving. As soon as you operate the clutch or release the brake, the engine will restart swiftly and smoothly.

The Auto Start/Stop function may remain inactive under particular circumstances, for example: extreme outside temperatures, when the SPORT button is selected or if battery charge is low. It is

also possible to deactivate the function manually using a separate button on the center console.

The thermal management system regulates the temperature in the engine and gearbox through the intelligent manipulation of heat flow.

In this way, the engine and transmission reach their optimum operating temperature sooner. As a result, fuel consumption is reduced through increased combustion efficiency and lubrication performance.

The 911 Carrera models are also equipped as standard with fuel-saving electrical system recuperation technology. The vehicle battery is recharged by the alternator, predominantly under braking. Under acceleration, on the other hand, the power draw of the alternator is limited to increase the engine output available for driving. The electrical systems are supplied by the electrical energy stored during the recharging process.

The ‘coasting’ function available with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) enables you to save even more fuel where the situation allows. The engine is decoupled from the transmission to prevent deceleration caused by engine braking. In this way, optimum use is made of the vehicle’s momentum, allowing it to coast for longer distances.

For example, you may want to slow down from 65 to 40 mph in anticipation of the change of speed limit ahead. As soon as you release the accelerator pedal, PDK deselects the current gear automatically and you begin to coast in neutral until you have reached your desired speed. The moment you engage the accelerator or brake pedal, PDK selects the appropriate gear smoothly and seamlessly within a fraction of a second.

Another way to reduce fuel consumption is to utilize the coasting function on downhill gradients that are gentle enough for you to maintain a constant speed. Efficient on long journeys, such as on the motorway, PDK remains ready to respond as swiftly and precisely as you would expect.

In short, driving in coasting mode makes a real impact on fuel consumption without any need for compromise on comfort or sporty performance.

Pure, direct, precise. Short shift movements and an optimum transition from one gear to the next. That’s exactly what you would expect of a Porsche manual transmission.

What you might not have expected is a 7-speed manual transmission that combines a high level of sporty performance with an equally high level of efficiency and offers extra comfort for longer journeys. It’s an exceptional innovation, and not only in the sports car segment.

The design of this manual transmission is based in principle on that of Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK). Gears 1 to 6 have a sports ratio and top speed is reached in 6th gear. The additional 7th gear, however, has a long ratio, which reduces torque and helps to reduce fuel consumption. Lower engine revs at fast driving speeds also ensure a high level of comfort on long stretches of road.

In addition, a gear indicator in the rev counter reminds you which gear has been selected. The upshift indicator in the instrument cluster helps you actively conserve fuel.

Thanks to the elevated center console, the gear lever is within easy reach – ideal for sporty gear changes.

Whether you select a sporty or comfortable gear, the way you reach your destination is in your own hands.

Available as an option for all 911 Carrera models is 7-speed PDK, featuring manual and automatic modes. It facilitates extremely fast gear changes with no interruption in the flow of power, whilst at the same time improving acceleration and fuel efficiency.

In total, PDK has seven gears at its disposal. Gears 1 to 6 have a sports ratio and top speed is reached in 6th gear. 7th gear has a long ratio and helps to reduce fuel consumption by keeping engine revs low.

PDK is essentially two gearboxes in one and thus requires two clutches. This double-clutch arrangement provides an alternating, non-positive connection between the two half gearboxes and the engine by means of two separate input shafts.

The flow of power from the engine is transmitted through one half gearbox and one clutch at a time, while the next gear is preselected in the second half gearbox. During a gear change, therefore, one clutch simply opens and the other closes at the same time, enabling gear changes to take place within milliseconds.

The effect is instant. Driving feels even sportier and more dynamic, and agility is increased. Depending on the gearshift program (SPORT button activated or deactivated), the gear change is optimized for comfort or for sporty driving.

With the optional Sport Chrono Package, PDK is enhanced by the ‘Launch Control’ and ‘motorsport-derived gearshift strategy’ functions.

The exhaust system of the 911 Carrera models has been redesigned, acoustics included.

The stainless-steel exhaust system comprises two distinctive and independent exhaust tracts. The catalytic converters heat up rapidly for effective emissions reduction.

A selectable twin-tube sports exhaust system featuring distinctive polished stainless-steel tailpipes is available as an option. Activated by a button, it produces an even more intensive sports car sound.

The resonance intake system increases the intake volume by exploiting the fact that air oscillates as it passes through the intake manifold. The system can adjust to engine speed. Benefits of this include higher torque at low engine speeds and a flatter torque curve. The 911 Carrera S models operate a two-stage system.

The entire intake system is made from lightweight plastic. In the 911 Carrera model range, the resonator volume of the air filter housing varies with engine speed to bring added character to the engine sound, which becomes much more powerful at higher rpm.

DFI delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber with millisecond precision. The spray and cone angles of the multi-hole injectors have been optimized for torque, power output, fuel consumption, emissions and efficient combustion.

With direct injection, the engine management system regulates injection timing individually for each cylinder as well as the injection rate for each cylinder bank. This improves the combustion process and fuel economy.

For faster heating of the catalytic converters after a cold start and optimum torque in the upper load range, up to three injection pulses take place per combustion cycle.

DFI improves the internal cooling of the combustion chamber by having the mixture prepared directly in the cylinder. This allows for a higher compression ratio, which helps to deliver more output at the same time as enhanced engine efficiency. Injection is regulated by the electronic engine management system and emissions are monitored by the Lambda sensors.

VarioCam Plus is a two-in-one engine concept for adjusting the intake camshafts and switching the lift of the intake valves.

The system first differentiates between driver inputs that typify normal, everyday driving and those inputs that demand maximum performance. The electronic engine management system then seamlessly adapts valve operation to the prevailing conditions. This results in smooth running, responsive acceleration, extraordinary power on demand, and efficient fuel consumption.

Integrated dry-sump lubrication ensures a reliable supply of oil even when a sporty driving style is adopted. It also has additional cooling functions.

The oil tank is located in the engine, thereby eliminating the need for an external oil tank, which saves both space and weight. To reduce power loss and increase efficiency, an electronically controlled oil pump supplies the lubricating points inside the engine as and when required. When demand is low, the oil pump is operated at reduced power, thereby saving fuel.