What are they
The 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Carrera 4. Hello, Canada. The all-wheel drive 911 Targa 4 with a turbocharged engine promises to deliver more power on less fuel. How good are you with the pedal? Equipped with optional PDK and sport chrono packages, the Carrera goes from 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, clipping an eye-blink equivalent of 0.4 seconds from the predecessor, according to the auto maker. Go to the S model and it does the distance in 3.8 seconds. Top speeds range between 287 and 305 km/h. The Carrera S Cabriolet and Targa 4S with PDK use 8.0 litres/100 km highway, or just under twice the consumption of a Toyota Prius. Your choice.
Signature feature
As winter approaches, consider the possibilities of spring. Distinguished from the coupé and Cabriolet, for the Targa, there is the droptop and wraparound rear window. With a simple touch of a button, the roof lifts off to stow behind the rear seats, overlapping the rollover bar that replaces the B pillars.
What else is new
With an optional sport chrono package, a switch on the steering wheel enables four driving modes – normal, sport, sport-plus and individual. Moreover, a sport response button generates max acceleration for a period of 20 seconds. … Rear axle steering is an option on the Targa 4S … An adaptive chassis with suspension management reduces ride height by 10 millimetres to increase the spread between circuit and long-distance driving … The light strip between the tail lights gives off a three-dimensional design, accenting rear fenders that arch 44 mm more outwards-- as if the zoom-factor weren't enough. Also: daytime running lights, redesigned rear hood with vertical louvres and recessed door handles.
Under the hood
Outfitted with the 3.0-litre six-cylinder, 370-hp engine, horsepower increases to 420 due to turbochargers with modified compressors, specifically tuned engine and customized exhaust. Porsche says the Carrera will accelerate better than the rear-wheel drive versions.
When can we get it, and at what cost
The Targa 4 will be available in Canada in the second quarter of 2016, starting at $124,000; the 4S starts at $140,000. Carrera 4 prices range between $110,100 to $140,100 for the 4S Cabriolet.
Cool factor
5 stars (out of 5)
Press a button and ground clearance at the front spoiler lip raises 40 mm within five seconds. Why? To negotiate steep exits from office and condo buildings. Not so cool? How about the individual driving mode which allows drivers to self-customize suspension management, engine mounts, shifting strategy and the sports exhaust system.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
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