992 Porsche 911 Carrera S launched in Malaysia – 3.0L turbo flat-six with 530 PS and 530 Nm; from RM1.15 mil

Sime Darby Auto Performance has launched the 992-generation Porsche 911 in Malaysia, arriving here specifically in Carrera S and Carrera 4S guises. Prices start from RM1.15 million for the rear-wheel drive (C2S) model, while the C4S goes for RM1.22 million. Included in the price is a four-year warranty and free maintenance, including parts and labour.

Powering the eighth-generation 911 is a wholly revised 3.0 litre flat-six petrol engine, featuring piezo injectors for the first time. It’s also fitted with larger symmetrical turbochargers (boost pressure is up at 1.2 bar), while cooling comes from a brand new intercooler. In Carrera S form, the engine makes 450 PS at 6,500 rpm and 530 Nm of torque at 2,300 to 5,000 rpm, which is 30 PS and 30 Nm more than the 991.2 Carrera S.

The engine (still rear-mounted of course) is mated to a new fast-shifting eight-speed PDK, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.7 seconds, or 3.5 seconds with the optional Sports Chrono Pack. Top speed is rated at 306 km/h, which can be achieved in sixth gear. The additional cog allows Porsche to spread the gearing ratios, thus improving throttle response – the previous 911 was equipped with a seven-speed PDK.

In terms of design, the wide body look, which was only featured on all-wheel drive models, is now standard across the board. Of course, the 911 still remains unmistakably a 911, now featuring more prominent gun barrel LED projector headlights with four-point LED DRLs (the top LED matrix headlights feature 84 individual LEDs). The wide air intake accentuates the car’s newfound width.

Round the side, the 911 sits on 20-inch wheels up front and 21-inch hoops at the rear, and the car now features electrical pop out door handles for the first time. Behind, there’s a wide LED light strip that joins the LED tail lights, LED third brake lights in the shape of a pause symbol, and integrated dual exhaust exits. The C2S gets black louvres in the grille, whereas the C4S gets chrome elements.

Inside, the new 911 looks and feels considerably more luxurious than before. The driver still gets the customary five-dial instrument cluster, comprising two seven-inch digital instrument displays that flank the analogue rev counter in the middle.

Next to that is a high-resolution 10.9-inch touchscreen display for the Porsche Communication Management, below which rests a row of five retro-styled switches. Other notable changes include the new electronic gear shifter, redesigned seats (reduce three kg off the car) that offer better lateral and shoulder support, and a cup holder in the centre console.

Additional highlights include the new Porsche Wet mode (a world’s first, Porsche claims), which is not to be confused with Drift mode. Instead, when activated, Wet Mode makes driving in the rain safer, and it works by using acoustic sensors in the front wheel well to recognise spray patterns while driving. This helps the system determine the amount of water present on the driven surface.

Another first is the option of Night Vision Assist with thermal imaging camera, whereas adaptive cruise control now comes with automatic distance control, stop-and-go function, reversible occupant protection and autonomous emergency assist (AEB). You may find out what we think of the most advanced Porsche 911 in our written review, or alternatively watch the first impressions video below.

GALLERY: 992 Porsche 911 Carrera S in Valencia, Spain

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