
A reliable source at Porsche has confirmed that the next-generation 911 Turbo will feature an innovative four-wheel steering system to further sharpen its dynamic prowess.
During the local launch of the Porsche Cayenne GTS, a senior source at Porsche SA revealed that the upcoming 991 series 911 Turbo will feature an innovative chassis enhancement that will lend the car even more agility.
The technology will comprise an electric four-wheel steering system that will probably work in harmony with Porsche’s existing PTV (Porsche Torque Vectoring) system. PTV basically oversees a limited-slip differential that applies moderate braking to the inside wheel under cornering to sharpen up the car’s line and, especially in the case of all-wheel drive models, counter potential understeer.
The electric four-wheel steering system will take this a step further by applying a small, but appreciable, degree of rear-wheel steer opposed to the front turn-in. By utilising an electrically actuated system, Porsche’s engineers will keep additional weight to a minimum while being better able to harmonise the system with the new car’s electric power steering set-up.
There’s still a great deal of speculation surrounding the new Turbo’s powerplant, but it’s widely believed that power will be provided by a twin-turbo 3,8-litre flat-six unit coupled with a choice of 7-speed manual or twin-clutch (PDK) transmissions. The power output will take a hike northwards, with some publications reporting an output figure as high as 400 kW.
The new 911 Turbo will find its way to South Africa during the second half of 2013.