4 minute read
Porsche 911 Targa
FORECOURT PORSCHE 911 TARGA 4S
Porsche’s ’60s-inspired convertible is back. Darren Cassey finds out if there’s substance behind the style.
The looks
The Targa’s retro styling makes it arguably the prettiest of all the 911s.
THE
KNOWLEDGE Porsche 911 Targa 4S
Price (as tested): £109,725 Engine: 3.0-litre
twin-turbo boxer
Power:
444bhp
Torque: 530Nm
Max speed:
189mph
O-60mph:
3.6 seconds
MPG (combined):
28.5
Emissions:
227g/km CO2
WHAT IS IT?
Born in the ’60s because America was considering banning convertibles for being too dangerous and named after Porsche’s victories in the iconic Targa Florio races, the 911 Targa was an instant hit. In 2014, the styling inspiration returned to those original models, and the result was one of the best-looking sports cars out there. Now there’s a new one...
WHAT’S NEW?
Key changes relate to the engine, which is more powerful, while a new manual transmission means those looking for a more physical connection with the driving experience are well catered for. The all-wheel-drive system has also been optimised for more traction.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
It’s an undoubtedly fantastic engine that loves to be revved out, and as is always the case with Porsche sixes, it sings high in the rev range. However, there’s no denying that in this application it feels particularly lacking in emotion.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The Targa is immediately comfortable whether cruising around in traffic, opening up on the motorway or pressing on down a back road.
Being slightly heavier than the coupe does lead to a subtle numbing of the 911’s abilities, feeling a little less nimble on its feet than regular models. However, it’s so subtle that very few will notice the difference or have any reason to be disappointed. Hit your favourite country roads and it’s a blast, with the way the all-wheel-drive system grips up and shoots you out of a corner being the highlight.
HOW DOES IT LOOK?
The 911’s classic shape never goes out of fashion, and with the retro Targa styling it’s arguably at its prettiest. It’s like buying a retro model but with the bonus of all the modern technology and reliability you could ask for.
If you want to go fully retro, there’s a Heritage Design Edition limited to just 992 examples. It gets styling features inspired by classic models, including gold logos and circular number blocks on the outside, plus corduroy upholstery inside.
The cabin
The interior is ergonomically brilliant and the infotainment system is one of the best in the business.
Engine
The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder boxer engine in the 4S pumps out 444bhp.
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
Drop into the cabin and it’s clear that Porsche has spent a lot of time making it ergonomically brilliant. The driving position is easy to get right, and most buttons are within easy reach, while the infotainment system is one of the best in the business – its menu design looks smart and is intuitive to navigate.
It’s also surprisingly spacious for a sports car, so long as you’re sitting in the front. Rear passengers of even average height will be hoping the journey is short. That’s about the only criticism you can level at it, though, with the practical layout complemented by brilliant materials throughout.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
Standard equipment on the Targa 4S is extensive. In addition to the active suspension system and torque vectoring tech, it comes with 20-inch alloy wheels at the front and 21 at the rear, leather upholstery, four-way electric sports seats and the fantastic widescreen infotainment system.
There are various optional extras that can really up the price, too. There are three more alloy wheel designs that are the same size as the standard ones but range from £809 to £1,679, adaptive ‘sports seats plus’ for £2,315, Exclusive Manufaktur leather interior for £7,899 and a huge variety of exterior upgrades.
WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?
What Car? called it ‘searingly quick and sharp to drive’ while Top Gear Magazine said it was ‘as much a design object as it is a pure sports car’.
WHAT DO WE THINK?
There’s no denying that, as usual, Porsche has absolutely nailed the brief with the 911 Targa. Sure, it lacks some of the emotional driving flair of rivals, but that’s often been the case with this iconic sports car – the fact it’s so good to drive so much of the time has won it plaudits for decades.
Those seeking a true performance car might want to look elsewhere in the 911 range, but if style and practicality are key to your sports car purchase you will not be left disappointed.
TARGET BUYERS:
Sports car enthusiasts looking for style above all else.
THE RIVALS:
Aston Martin DB11 Volante, Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster, Audi R8 Spyder.
KEY SELLING POINTS:
1. Cool folding hard top. 2. Fantastic interior. 3. Great performance.
DEAL CLINCHER: Everything you love about the Porsche 911 with added style.
