Porsche 911 Type 992 finally unveiled at the 2018 LA Auto Show

Porsche have finally unveiled the new eighth generation 911, the type 992, at the 2018 LA Auto Show. According to Porsche it is more powerful, faster and more technologically advanced than ever before.

How powerful and fast is it?

The Carrera S and 4S models are equipped with a turbocharged flat-six which pushes out 444bhp, a 30bhp increase over the previous model, while the new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission directs all that power to the wheels. With a 0-62mph time of 3.7 seconds for the S and 3.6 seconds for the 4S, both models are 0.4 seconds faster than their previous incarnations. The optional Sport Chrono Pack will shave an additional 0.2 seconds off of these times. Top speeds are are 191mph for the S and 190mph for the 4S.

What about looks?

The exterior design  is unmistakably a Porsche 911. But there have also been significant changes. The rear end is now the same width across all models and is dominated by the wider, variable-position spoiler and the seamless light bar.  The front end is now 45mm wider and the pronounced recess in the bonnet is reminiscent of the first 911s. There are also new LED headlights  and electrical pop-out handles on the doors emphasise the smooth lines of the side and improve aerodynamics. Lastly, there are wider wheel housings over the 20-inch front wheels and 21-inch rear wheels.

And the inside?

Porsche have gone for clean, straight lines with recessed instruments, taking the 911 models of the 1970s as their design inspiration. The centre screen is now 10.9-inches with easily accessible vehicle function buttons. As well as new functions and services, the 992 features permanent connectivity and the PCM includes online navigation using swarm data in addition to Porsche Connect Plus.

In terms of safety features, the Porsche-developed Wet Mode is included as standard, detecting water on the road, preconditioning the controls and warning the driver. The Warning and Brake Assist System, also fitted as standard, detects the risk of collision with moving objects and can apply emergency braking if needed. The optional Night Vision Assist offers a thermal imaging camera while Adaptive Cruise Control includes Automatic Distance Control, Stop-and-go function, Reversible Occupant Protection and the innovative autonomous Emergency Assist function.

Porsche have also introduced three new digital applications. Porsche Road Trip helps plan, organise and navigate journeys offering hotel and restaurant recommendations as well as places of interest. Porsche 360+ is described a personal lifestyle assistant who is available even when you are not with your car. Sounds intriguing. Thirdly, there is Porsche Impact which calculates the financial cost of your CO2 footprint and suggests internationally certified climate projects in which to invest. A Porsche with a heart, no less.

We are already slightly in love with the smooth sleek lines of the type 992. It appears Porsche have created another 911 icon.