The latest addition to the Porsche 911->ke282 line-up is the Carrera 4 GTS - the top end version of the Carrera->ke574 models that combines the Carrera GTS technology with an all-wheel drive twin. The new model will be put on sale in July with prices for Germany starting from 111,956 euro (about $160,000 at the current rates) for the coupe and 122,071 euro (about $175,000 at the current rates) for the convertible version. Prices for the US market will be announced at a later date.

The new Porsche Carrera 4 GTS is powered by a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine, which is the same engine used in the Carrera S. The only difference in the engine is that it pushes out an additional 23 HP, getting the total number up to 408 HP. With this output and with the intelligent, all-wheel drive Porsche->ke1 Traction Management (PTM), the new 4 GTS will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds for the coupe version and in 4.8 seconds for the cabriolet.

Hit the jump for more details on the 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS.

porsche-911-carrera-4-gts

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: porsche-911-carrera-4-gts
Pros
Cons

2011 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS
  • Engine/Motor: six-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 408@7300
  • Torque: 309@4200-5600
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

Porsche's latest Carrera 4 GTS will be distinguished by the GTS lettering on the doors and rear lid, a reflective stripe between the taillights, and a new set of 19" RS Spyder wheels in black with central locking and gloss-lathed rim flanges fitted with 305/30 ZR 19 tires on the rear axle.

Customers will also have the possibility to opt for a Sport-Design front apron with black painted spoiler lip and special side skirts, also in black. On the interior, the model will add sports seats, door handles and a door storage box lid and extension, and sporty black Alcantara covering on center panels, steering wheel rim, gearshift, and handbrake lever.

Engine

Under the hood, Porsche has used the same 3.8-liter, six-cylinder Carrera S engine, but has increased the output by 23 HP to a total of 408 HP at 7,300 rpm, while the 309 lb-ft of torque will be hit from 4,200 rpm and 5,600 rpm. The Carrera 4 GTS is fitted with a six-speed manual transmission as standard and a sports exhaust system that ensures a distinctly sporty sound. Of course, customers will also be able to opt for the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) seven-speed gearbox that will save an additional 0.2 seconds off the 0 to 60 mph sprint time.

When equipped with the manual transmission, the 4 GTS will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds for the coupe version and in 4.8 seconds for the cabriolet. The fuel consumption remains similar to the Carrera 4S version: 11.0 l/100 km (25.7 mpg imp.) for the coupe and 11.2 l/100 km (25.2 mpg imp) for the cabrio version.

The most impressive feature of the new 4 GTS model is the PTM all-wheel drive system that adds even more driving stability, traction, and agile handling. The PTM achieves this by directing the optimal proportion of the engine torque to the front wheels via a multiple-plate clutch.

Prices

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS will go on sale in July with prices for the German market starting from 111,956 euro (about $160,000 at the current exchange rates) euro for the coupe and 122,071 euro ($175,000) for the convertible version. Prices for the US market will be announced at a later date.

Competition

The new Carrera 4 GTS will target the same competitors as the GTS model. The list will include models like the Audi R8 V8->ke1440 and the Nissan 370Z Nismo.

The less powerful model from the three of them is the 370Z Nismo, but it is also the cheapest one with prices starting from about $40K. Why would anyone buy a Porsche instead? Well, the Porsche is highly recognized, for one, but it also delivers better performance. The Nissan has better exterior styling, but the Porsche takes it overall.

As for the Audi R8, it has been voted as the most beautiful car in the world numerous times, so it clearly has the advantage in the looks department. Then they throw in a 4.2 Liter FSI V8 producing 420 HP and 320 lb-ft of torque and a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.4 seconds and you get the pick of the litter.