Next Generation 911 Targa 4 and 4S revealed

Porsche Cars North America has just released details about the new 911 Targa 4 and 4S, completing the update of the full line of 911 models. Like their 911 brethren, the Targa 4 and the sportier 4S will receive horsepower bumps to 345hp and 385hp respectively, thanks in part to a new direct injected fuel system that also promises increased fuel efficiency.

2009 Porsche 911 Targa 4S

(Credit: Stefan Warter/Porsche AG)

The Targa 4 and 4S will also receive Porsche's new 7-speed double-clutch gearbox, Porsche-Doppelkupplung. As indicated by the "4" in its moniker, the Targa 4 and 4S will only be available with the Porsche Traction Management, which replaces the viscous multiple-plate clutch all-wheel drive system of the previous 911 models. According to Porsche, this package results in a more pronounced driving characteristic.

Inside the cabin, the new 911 will receive the new Porsche Communication Management 3.0, which features a touchscreen for simplified operation of the audio system as well as the optional hard-disk-drive navigation system. Also available are the new options of XM satellite radio with XM NavTraffic capability, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod port, USB port and auxiliary jack.

Unique to the 911 Targa is its 16.58-square-foot, specially tinted glass roof made up of two segments--a sliding roof at the front and a tailgate at the rear. The roof slides beneath the tailgate within 7 seconds, offering almost 5 square feet of open space above the passenger cabin when opened completely.

The 2009 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S will be available in the United States in October at $89,500 and $100,100 respectively.