Porsche 911 GTS models blast onto the scene

Porsche is expanding its 911 line-up with the introduction of the new GTS variant that is available in five model derivatives and scheduled to arrive in SA in the fourth quarter of the year. 

The new Porsche 911 GTS features black contrasting bodywork elements as well as darkened headlight inserts. The range-topping Targa 4 GTS is equipped with a model-defining hoop and Targa insignia. 

Other bits such as the spoiler lip, centre-lock alloy wheel and engine cover louvres are finished in black silk gloss. Buyers can choose to have these and other details finished in high-gloss black as an option. 

The 911 GTS models also have the Sport Design package that adds a distinctive trim on the front, rear and side sills. The headlight rims and daytime running light surrounds get the darkened treatment. Offered as standard are LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus. The rear lights are unique to the GTS models.

Inside, the new Porsche 911 GTS features a GT Sport steering wheel as well as the Chrono Package. The Track Precision app, tyre temperature display, Sport Seats Plus Plus with electric four-way adjustment are offered as standard. 

Porsche says it has reduced the interior insulation for better emotive driving acoustics. The gear lever of the optional seven-speed manual transmission has been shortened by 10 mm for fast gear shifts. 

The central sections of the seats, steering wheel rim, door handles, armrests, storage compartment lid and gear lever are trimmed in microfibre material. 

The interior can be had in Carmine Red or Crayon as an option as part of the GTS interior package. Other bits such as seatbelts, embroidered GTS label on the headrests, rev counter and Sport Chrono clock are finished in the same contrasting hues.

Features such as decorative inserts on the dash and door trim are matt Carbon also as part of the GTS interior package.  

From November 2021, the Porsche 911 GTS will be available for the first time with the Lightweight Design package that saves up to 25 kg, thanks to the use of a lighter carbon fibre reinforced plastic on the full bucket seats. The side and rear windows are lightweight as well as the battery. 

As part of the Lightweight package, the rear seats can be taken out. The new 911 GTS comes standard with rear-axle steering plus aerodynamic finishing enhancements also as part of the package. 

There is a new Porsche Communication Management system that now comes fitted with Android Auto as well as an enlarged Media menu and touch areas. The option of rearranging the tiles on the home screen is also new. The voice assistant has been improved, Porsche says it can now recognise natural speech and can be activated by saying “Hey Porsche”. 

Powering the range is a turbocharged 3.0-litre flat-six engine that gushes out 353 kW and 570 Nm of torque -- 22 kW and 20 Nm more than the outgoing model. That’s enough to catapult the new 911 GTS from a standstill to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds. According to Porsche, the new 911 GTS with an 8-speed PDK is three tenths faster than the previous model. 

As an option, the new 911 GTS can be ordered with a 7-speed manual transmission. 

The new GTS derives its suspension from the 911 Turbo, however, it has been modified to suit the GTS for better handling prowess. The Coupe and Cabriolet models feature the brand’s Active Suspension Management as standard. 

‍

Stopping power, meanwhile, comes courtesy of a high-performance braking system lifted from the 911 Turbo.

It rides on 20” wheels in front and 21” at the rear axle. There is a standard sports exhaust system for an even fruitier note. 

Pricing for the new Porsche 911 GTS range is as follows, including a 3 year/100 000 Drive plan.

911 Carrera GTS R2 290 000

911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet R2 490 000

911 Carrera 4 GTS 2 400 000

911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet  R2 600 000

911 Targa 4 GTS R2 600 000