Porsche engineers are out testing prototypes for an updated 911 range, and a new one has been spotted.
Previously we brought you spy shots of prototypes for the updated 911 Turbo, 911 Turbo S, and 911 Carrera Cabriolet. Our latest shots show what’s likely to be the updated 911 Carrera coupe.
The current 911 arrived in 2019 as a 2020 model, initially in Carrera and Turbo guises. Given the typical seven- to eight-year lifespan of the 911, this updated version should arrive in 2023, likely as a 2024 model.
Tweaks to the styling will be mild, with the prototype revealing a new front fascia design sporting larger intakes with vertical flaps that are likely active. There’s also an additional sensor located under the license plate, and new internals for the headlights. The turn signals have also been integrated with the headlights, instead of residing on the front fascia like the current design.
Moving to the rear, the taillights have a new design with double bars. We also notice a new design for the engine’s side vents, as well as exhaust tips mounted closer to the center. This backs rumors that a new engine might be introduced with this update, specifically a bigger, naturally aspirated unit like Porsche’s 4.0-liter flat-6 offered in the 718 range, which starts at 394 hp. The current Carrera models come with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-6, which starts at 379 hp.
There is some substance to the rumors. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Porsche’s chief engineer for the 911, said in a 2020 interview that new emissions regulations planned for Europe around the middle of the decade will see bigger engines return in favor of downsized units. The new rules are apparently aimed at matching lab-tested fuel economy with real-world figures.
2024 Porsche 911 Carrera facelift spy shots – Photo credit: Baldauf
We also expect a hybrid option to be added to the Carrera with this update. The updated Turbo should also have a hybrid option.
Interior shots reveal a revised dash design. Porsche is planning to add a bigger infotainment screen and a new instrument cluster that will be fully digital, like in the Taycan. The current design sticks with an analog gauge for the center-mounted tachometer. It seems there won’t be a redesign for the dual-clutch automatic’s current gear lever, which resembles an electric shaver.
