Caught on video is possibly the new 2016 Porsche 911 seen doing some high-altitude testing in Colorado. The 911 is due for a refresh and this 911 was seen with some minor visual updates that possibly hint at larger changes under the skin. The updated Porsche might debut at the upcoming Frankfurt show in September. There are conflicting reports of a new chassis code–992 or 991.2–replacing the current 991 generation.
These spy shots suggest slightly revised styling such as revised daytime running lights and new intakes in the bumper. The sculpting is slightly different on the B-pillar and the covered taillights suggest that 3D items in the style of the 918 Spyder will also be part of the facelift.
No technical details have been formally announced from Stuttgart, but we believe that Porsche will use the 991’s mid-cycle refresh to introduce a new line of turbocharged flat-six engines for the non-GT models. The 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera is rumored to be powered by a smaller 400 horsepower 2.7-liter turbocharged engine. The Carrera S could also get the turbocharging treatment with a 3.4-liter flat-six that pushes 450 hp.
At the higher end of Porsche’s performance line-up, the 911 Turbo, Turbo S, and GT2 will probably keep their current 3.8-liter turbocharged flat-sixes. Expect a boost in power to progress the Turbo and Turbo S’ 520 hp and 560 hp respective outputs if a forced-induction Carrera S closes the gap on the Turbo models. Porsche’s more powerful GT3 and GT3 RS models will keep their naturally aspirated engines–for now.
Turbocharging sets up the engines with more power and better C02 emissions. How many will stay true Porsche-philes after they move away from naturally aspirated engines?
