Porsche updates 2018 model range

PORSCHE has announced a number of updates to its 2017 model range including new connectivity features and some new paint colours, ushering in price increases for the majority of the German car-maker’s line-up.

Price increases differ with each model, and range from between $5500 and $5600 for the 718 Boxster and Cayman, $3700-$3800 for all 911 variants bar the Turbo and Turbo S which have risen $5700.

The Macan mid-size SUV is up between $3400-$4800, the larger Cayenne has lifted by $1300-$3000, while the the recently-released second-generation Panamera four-door is up by $5100-$7900.

Added range-wide features include an updated version of Porsche Connect Plus – the German brand’s smartphone compatibility system that was previously only offered with Apple CarPlay, but now includes a telephone module with SIM card reader to run real-time updates through the car instead of the phone.

It also includes Wifi hotspot functionality and the Porsche Connect app, which gives owners access to smartphone content such as calendars, destinations, contacts and first mile/last mile navigation, all through the centrally-mounted Porsche communication management system.

There will also be a number of new paint colour options across the range, including Crayon grey for the 911 and 718 ranges, and Saffron Yellow metallic with intermediate sanding for the 911.

911 Turbo S customers can option a Golden Yellow metallic colour with black/yellow gold interior, while the sports exhaust system which is optional on 911s can be ordered with high-gloss black tailpipes.

The Cayenne colour palette adds Purpurite metallic, with Palladium metallic as a special colour. The Panamera adds Burgundy Red metallic and Ristretto Brown metallic.

New interior options include black or luxor beige leather for the Macan and Panamera, with the latter also including Cohiba and Truffle brown leather options.

Porsche is also offering a power boost package for all 911 S variants, which includes Carrera S, Carrera 4S and Targa 4S.

The power upgrade package screws an extra 22kW out of the 3.0-litre turbocharged flat six engine, bringing total output to 331kW/500Nm and is priced from $24,580 depending on vehicle spec.

Extra power is generated through larger turbochargers, Sport Chrono package with dynamic engine mounts, a modified brake cooling system and unique twin central tailpipe sports exhaust.

The system can also be retrofitted to existing S models fitted with the Sport Chrono package, through aftermarket supplier Porsche Tequipment from June onwards.

With the kit fitted, fuel consumption rises by approximately 0.7 litres per 100km, and Co2 emissions by about 12 grams per km.