More Porsche 997 range updates revealed

More information regarding Porsche’s 997 update have come to hand following the leak of an official Porsche document. We already know that the big changes will be mechanical with the addition of direct-injection to the 3.6 and 3.8-litre flat sixes and the option of a seven-speed Doppelkupplung gearbox to the range.

Visually, the changes are typically Porsche – subtle evolution of the 911 species. Bi-xenon headlights will be standard on the base Carrera for the first time, along with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. The Carrera 4 models will see the return of the rear light strip last seen in the 996 range.

New 18in and 19in alloy wheels will be a feature of the refresh and cars fitted with the 3.6-litre will benefit from upgraded brakes. All models in the range will be fitted with a new design stainless steel exhaust.

Inside the cabin, Porsche have reviewed the instrument panel, reducing the amount of switches, simplifying the air-conditioning controls and improving the multimedia and satnav equipment. A new multi-function steering wheel will feature in Doppelkupplung gearbox equipped cars.

The introduction of direct-injection will see engine outputs rise by 15kW/20hp for the 3.6-litre and 22kW/30hp and 20Nm for both engines. The more efficient engines will not only produce more kW’s but they will also use less fuel and produce less CO2.

These changes will apply to the 2009 Carrera and Carrera S models as well as their AWD and Targa variants. We would expect the Turbo, GT2 and GT3 to receive similar mechanical upgrades, certainly the direct-injection and Doppelkupplung gearbox although this is currently speculation on our part with Porsche not due to officially confirm the changes until June.

[Source: MotiveMag]