Many rumors have circulated around the next-gen Porsche 911, set to be unveiled in 2019. It seems most experts can agree on updated physical features after spotting the new model being test driven, but are less certain when it comes to the engine modifications. Porsche had previously hinted at the concept of a new hybrid model in the 911 range, which underpins the predominant rumor currently circulating. Information on the interior upgrades have been kept mostly quiet, although a few theories have been voiced. Here’s what’s been said:
The Next-Gen Body:
Final touches pending, some changes have been identified in the model sighted on a test drive. However, these changes don’t seem to interfere with the next-gen being identifiable as a 911, and in the true spirit of Porsche, these changes are purposeful.
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From the front
The iconic rounded lights are here to stay, albeit angled slightly differently. The possibility of a front spoiler has been mentioned. LED headlights are an added feature. The redesigned trunk lid, without the rounded off edges, and a narrower nose are the most distinctive changes here. All in all, the changes from the front view are minor. The slightly new look has been compared to the Spyder. The longer reaching hood changes only the look, and not the actual length of the car.
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Side glance
There isn’t much to mention here. It seems the handles have been refashioned, but the integrity of the car’s distinctive look has been maintained. The wheel arches have been extended, adding to the width of the car.
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The more commonly spotted rear
A new exhaust system sees the exhaust pipes placed closer together. The spoiler sits further out and stretches the length of the vehicle for improved aerodynamics. The taillights have adopted a look closer to that of the Mission E, being one narrow strip and spanning the rear fascia.
Under the Hood:
Here is where it gets trickier. The new 911 model has been spotted, but this doesn’t provide a true peek under the hood. There are a few changes crossing the airwaves causing the most speculation around the next-gen’s release.
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A New Modular Platform
A new modular platform has been designed – adding to the new width of the car. This change will be dynamic as it seems likely be used by other manufacturers in the future, such as Lamborghini and the Audi R8. It is possible that the new platform has been introduced to make space for the rumored hybrid engine, but the focus should be on the benefits it brings to the stability and flexibility of the vehicle.
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The Debated Hybrid Engine
The introduction of a hybrid in the 911 range has been hinted at and rumored for quite some time, and it seems settled that this will be the case. It makes sense for Porsche to be introducing a hybrid into the 911 range in 2019 given that new emission regulations will be implemented in Europe by 2020. This feature, if included, has its downsides. The added weight and space needed to incorporate this would impact on the car as a sports-engineered machine. This would explain the new model being wider than its predecessors. However, it seems unlikely that a full hybrid is on the cards, and that this next-gen will derive its power from the twin-turbo charged 3.0 liter flat six engine.
Through the Window:
Much like what’s going on under the hood, the interior is more difficult to comment on than the outward appearance.
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Word on the Street is…
…the possibility of upgraded infotainment centers, a change in the center console for improved ergonomics, and more interior color scheme options becoming available. Hints that the dash design is to undergo a complete override are also audible, with the prospect of an all-digital overhaul.
Next-Gen Overriding Thoughts:
Porsche is known for its evolution in each generation of its vehicles, and their committed following is proof that, despite any seemingly drastic changes that they may make on a non-regular basis, their cars maintain a design integrity within each range. Each model has been an improvement on the last. Why should the next-gen 911 be any different?