{"id":1283,"date":"2019-08-01T15:54:45","date_gmt":"2019-08-01T19:54:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/?p=1283"},"modified":"2025-03-06T16:23:22","modified_gmt":"2025-03-06T21:23:22","slug":"porsche-grows-2020-911-line-with-new-base-carrera-coupe-and-cabriolet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/articles.carcostcanada.com\/porsche-grows-2020-911-line-with-new-base-carrera-coupe-and-cabriolet\/","title":{"rendered":"Porsche grows 2020 911 line with new base Carrera Coupe and Cabriolet"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"2020
Most will agree, the new 2020 911 Carrera Cabriolet looks fabulous. (Photo: Porsche)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It\u2019s been less than a year since Porsche introduced the all-new eighth-generation 2020 911 at the LA auto show, and just seven months since the Cabriolet arrived, and now the German performance brand is readying those mid-range Carrera S models for production and upcoming deliveries this fall. Ahead of these 443 horsepower super cars, Porsche has just released photos and key information about a couple of 911 models that are a bit more down to earth, the more affordable base 911 Carrera Coupe and 911 Carrera Cabriolet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The new entry-level 911 hardtop and soft-top models share the same 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder \u201cboxer\u201d engine as those \u201cS\u201d trims, but they incorporate a unique set of turbos for less performance. Still, 379 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque is no laughing matter, unless the thrill of quick acceleration makes you giggle. The first number adds 9 horsepower over the outgoing 2019 model, which results in a zero to 100km\/h sprint time of just 4.2 seconds, or 4.0 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. This is a significant move up from the outgoing base Carrera that was only capable of 4.6 or 4.2 seconds to 100km\/h respectively.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2020
A base model? Yes, it’s hard to believe this gorgeous new 2020 Carrera Coupe is the most affordable 911. (Photo: Porsche)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Surprisingly, the new 911 Carrera will only be available with Porsche\u2019s new eight-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic transmission when it first arrives. This gearbox, which was originally announced for the Carrera S, adds one gear over the outgoing automatic, for stronger performance and improved fuel economy. Those who want the seven-speed manual will need to wait until later in the model.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The new Carrera Coupe\u2019s track speed is identical to the outgoing model at 293 km\/h (182 mph), while the Cabriolet\u2019s terminal velocity is 291 km\/h (181 mph). It\u2019s normal for a fabric-topped convertible to be slower at high speeds than its equivalent hardtop coupe, due to the cloth roof \u201cballooning\u201d at high speeds, but Porsche incorporated magnesium surface elements dubbed \u201cbows\u201d within the redesigned roof\u2019s structure, so it manages wind more effectively.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

By the way, that fabric roof, which is now bigger to accommodate for the 911\u2019s larger interior, can open and close at speeds of up to 50 km\/h (30 mph), and only needs 12 seconds to do so thanks to a reworked hydraulic system. What\u2019s more, the updated process also extends an electrically extendable wind deflector so as to keep gusts of air from discomforting occupants.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2020
Porsche promises a larger, more accommodating interior with greater refinement and more advanced technologies. (Photo: Porsche)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Inside that larger, more accommodating cabin, the new 911 Carrera receives a wholly renewed interior with a large 10.9-inch high-definition touchscreen on the centre stack, while an all-new safety feature dubbed \u201cWet Mode\u201d provides greater control when it\u2019s raining or otherwise slippery.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All just-mentioned items come standard with the Carrera S, but take note the new base Carrera gets a smaller set of 19-inch alloys on 235\/40 ZR performance tires up front, plus bigger 20-inch rims shod in 295\/35 ZR rubber at the rear. Additionally, the base Carrera\u2019s 330-millimetre brake rotors are smaller than the Carrera S\u2019 discs, these biting onto black-coated four-piston monobloc fixed calipers for stopping power that should easily be up to task for dealing with this less potent car\u2019s overall performance. Also notable, the 911 Carrera\u2019s exhaust system gets unique individual tailpipe covers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Transport Canada hasn\u2019t provided fuel economy specs for the new 2020 911 models yet, but Porsche claims its new base Coupe and Cabriolet will be capable of a 9.0 and 9.2 L\/100km city\/highway combined rating respectively, when calculated on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). We can expect slightly different numbers when our five-cycle rating system is applied.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"2020
Porsche’s new eight-speed automatic will be standard until its seven-speed manual arrives later in the model year. (Photo: Porsche)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

And what about pricing? Surprisingly the base 2020 911 Carrera Coupe\u2019s window sticker gets pushed up $7,000 over its predecessor, from $104,000 to $111,000, while the Cabriolet\u2019s starting price has been increased from $118,100 to $125,600, for a $7,500 increase. Then again, we need to factor in that the new eight-speed automated PDK transmission is now standard, and that prices will likely be lowered when the seven-speed manual arrives later in the model year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Just the same, Porsche is probably hoping that the new 2020 911 Carrera\u2019s many enhancements will justify its sharp move up in price, but this said it will be interesting to witness how a more value-driven rival, like Chevy\u2019s new 526-horsepower mid-engine C8 Corvette that hits the road for a mere $69,998, might erode 911 sales. Granted, Porsche clientele, particularly 911 buyers, are not normally Corvette buyers, but the C8 is no normal Corvette, and its more exotic mid-engine layout and styling, stronger performance, and bargain basement price might lure in those who aren\u2019t as brand loyal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This said, if you still want a 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe or Cabriolet you can order it now and expect delivery early next year, while all-wheel drive C4 models will be available to order soon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

And while waiting, be sure to flick through all the photos we\u2019ve gathered in our gallery above, plus enjoy the short video below:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The new 911 Carrera Coup\u00e9 and 911 Carrera Cabriolet. (1:00):
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