Porsche reveals new Carrera 4 27 | 08 | 2012

PORSCHE HAS UNVEILED its fifth generation 911 Carrera 4, which will be officially launched at next month's Paris Motor Show (watch our video of the new Porsche Carrera 4 driven).

Not due to arrive in the UK until December, there will be four models in the Carrera 4 range: prices will start at £77,924 for the base Carrera 4 coupe, rising to £96,619 for the more powerful Carrera 4S cabriolet.

In typical Porsche traditions, the new 911 Carrera 4 sports a widened body. In a move which allows the fitment of wider rear wheels and tyres, he rear side panels extend out 22mm beyond those of the standard rear-wheel drive Porsche 911 Carrera.

The Carrera 4 models also get a subtle distinguishing red reflector panel between the tail lamps. 

Watch our video of the Porsche Carrera S Cabriolet

Up to 65kg lighter than its predecessor, the new 'standard' Carrera 4 is powered by the latest 345bhp version of its 3.4-litre classic horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine.

In coupe guise it will accelerate from standstill to 62mph in 4.5sec — the heavier cabriolet needs an additional 0.2s — when fitted with the optional seven-speed dual clutch gearbox. Both cars will hit 177mph and 175mph respectively.

Step up to the more powerful Carrera 4S and you get the 395bhp 3.8-litre engine which knocks 0.4s off the 0-62mph sprint time for the coupe. Top speeds increase to 186mph and 184mph.

And even Porsche is having to pay attention for growing demands for better fuel efficiency. The new model boasts a 16% improvement over the outgoing model. That means up to 32.8mpg in the 4 coupe and 31.0mpg in the 4S coupe.

UK debut for Porsche 918 Spyder

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/scotcars

Jim McGill