Porsche 911 Targa breaks cover

Following on from the new Coupé and Cabriolet models, Porsche has now revealed the third body variant of the new 911 (992) generation with the all-wheel drive 911 Targa 4 and 911 Targa 4S models. 

True to Targa form, the signature fully automatic roof system remains with a characteristic wide roll hoop, a movable roof section above the front seats and a wraparound rear window. The roof can be comfortably opened and closed in just 19 seconds. 

Powered by a six-cylinder, three-litre boxer engine with twin turbochargers: the 911 Targa 4 now delivers 11kW more power (283kW@6500rpm) and, in combination with the optional Sport Chrono package, accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds – one tenth faster than the previous Targa 4 variant. The 450Nm of maximum torque is available from just 1950rpm.

The more potent 911 Targa 4S boasts 331kW@6500rpm, a healthy increase of 22kW and maximum torque of 530 Nm (up 30 Nm) between 2,300 and 5,000 rpm. This spirits the Targa 4S to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds – four tenths faster than its predecessor.  

Top speed of the 911 Targa 4 is 289 km/h (up two km/h), while the 4S peaks at 304 km/h (up three km/h). 

Both sports cars are fitted with eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and intelligent all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) as standard to deliver maximum driving pleasure. Alternatively, the 911 Targa 4S can be ordered with the newly developed seven-speed manual gearbox, with which the Sport Chrono package is included.  

New technology has also been integrated to extend the range of features for both 911 models and, for the first time, Porsche InnoDrive, which includes adaptive cruise control, is available. Thanks to the enhanced Smartlift function, ground clearance can be programmed so that it is raised for everyday use.  

The enhanced performance of the new all-wheel drive models goes hand-in-hand with further development of the front-axle drive. The clutch and differential unit is water-cooled and has reinforced clutch discs for greater robustness and a higher load capacity. The increased actuating torque at the clutch improves its adjustment accuracy and the function of the additional front-axle drive. Overall, the enhanced front-axle drive with PTM (Porsche Traction Management) contributes to even better traction in all road conditions. Meanwhile, the electronically controlled variable damping system PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) is part of the standard equipment on the new 911 Targa models. This system automatically adjusts the damping characteristics in terms of driving comfort and handling to each driving situation and has two manually adjustable maps, Normal and Sport. Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), which includes an electronic rear differential lock with fully variable torque distribution, is added as standard equipment for the Targa 4S and is available as an option on the Targa 4. Like the other eighth generation Porsche 911 variants, the Targa models are also equipped with Porsche Wet mode as standard. 

The driving dynamics setup for the 911 Targa 4 includes 235/40 ZR tyres on 19-inch alloy wheels on the front axle and 295/35 ZR tyres on 20-inch wheels on the rear axle. As standard, the 4S model is fitted with 245/35 ZR tyres on its 20-inch front wheels and 305/30 ZR tyres on its 21-inch rears.  

On the Targa 4, deceleration is taken care of on both axles by 330-millimetre brake discs with black four-piston monobloc fixed callipers. The red-painted brake callipers on the Targa 4S have six pistons at the front axle, four at the rear while its discs measure 350 mm front and rear. The Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) can be ordered as an option. 

The exterior of the 911 Targa is characterised by the design elements we enjoy on the stunning 992 model generation. With more pronounced wheel housings at the front, a redesigned bonnet that nods to the design of the first 911 generations. Out back, the rear is dominated by wider, variably extending rear spoiler and the now familiar integrated LED light bar.  

Inside echoes the 911 Carrera models and is characterised by the clear and straight lines of its dashboard and its recessed instruments. The 911 models from the 1970s provided the inspiration here. A compact switch unit with five buttons for direct access to important vehicle functions is located below the sharp and intuitive 10.9” infotainment screen. 

Porsche has continued to combine two worlds in the 911 Targa: the advantages of open-top driving in a cabriolet, combined with the everyday comfort and safety of a coupé.