It has only happened a handful of times since 1963, but the Porsche 911 has gone through a redesign for 2020. We were on hand at the Porsche Experience Center in Los Angeles, California for the official unveiling as it was ushered in behind a parade of its predecessors.
Designated the 992, the 2020 911 Carrera S comes out of the gate with 443 horsepower using its turbocharged 3.0 liter flat-six — we don’t have numbers on a base Carrera yet. With 23 more horsepower than the previous Carrera S, the rear-wheel drive coupe should hit 60 MPH in just 3.5 seconds. With all-wheel drive, the Carrera 4S hits the same mark in 3.4 seconds.
Porsche will still offer a manual transmission, although not right away. Initial gear changing will be performed by a new 8-speed PDK. In another effort to make drivers better, there’s new Porsche Wet Mode and optional Night Vision Assist.
If you’ve been paying attention lately, you’ll know that Porsche doesn’t like to make major changes to the 911’s styling. Still, there are obvious differences between the 992 and the previous 991. Lines are sharper with wider wheel housing arches that cover 20” wheels in the front and 21-inchers in the back. Classic 911 fans will be happy to see the return of contours on the front “luggage compartment lid” — you might know it as a hood.
Like the front, the 911’s rear is wider with a new light bar that runs across uninterrupted. The back glass and grille look like one complete piece while Porsche clutters things up a bit by adding an actual “911” badge. The front and rear fascias are also the only sections of the body not made of aluminum.
Inside, Porsche drew inspiration from their 1970’s 911s with a wide dash design and recessed instruments. Displays sit on either side of the centrally located tachometer with a large center screen taking care of infotainment duties.
The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S will start at $114,250 with the 4S costing $121,650. Arriving in dealers in the summer of 2019, Porsche is taking orders now.
