Porsche 911: New 3.6-L NA Engine?

Twin-Turbo Option Now Available

The ever-evolving 911 is preparing for a mid-cycle refresh set to launch in 2024. Porsche enthusiasts have dubbed the updated version of Stuttgart’s iconic rear-engined sports car the “992.2”. According to Car and Driver, the revamped 911 will come with a new power plant – a 3.6-liter flat-six available in both naturally aspirated and twin-turbo versions.

Where will the new model fit in Porsche’s already intricate 911 stable? This won’t be a supplement, but rather an alternative to several existing motors. Interestingly, esteemed scribe Georg Kacher has been informed that the GTS will feature an NA instrument of affairs featuring a mild-hybrid setup. Interestingly, this would represent a large departure from the present 911 GTS that is adorning a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine. Yet, the prior 991.1 GTS similarly got rid of forced induction.

Reports claim the engine displacement for the Porsche GTS will see a rise from a 3.0- to a 3.6-liter configuration, while those equipped with turbo units are taking a step back in size from 3.8 to 3.6 liters. Yet, the most powerful variants will reportedly still retain their two-turbo system. Although no specific power numbers have been released yet, it’s worth highlighting that the current Turbo variant packs 572 horsepower and 553 lb-ft (748 Nm) of torque and the Turbo S boasts 640 hp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm).

Elsewhere, the GT3 and its wingless iteration, the GT3 Touring, will reportedly retain the same naturally-aspirated 4.0-liter powerplant; supposedly with a slight increase in horsepower and torque of 1 hp and 1 lb-ft, respectively, to reach a total of 503hp and 347 lb-ft. It is believed that in 2027, Porsche will transition away from this engine in favour of the rumoured 3.6-litre boxer unit – which is expected to generate a comparable output.

One of the primary changes promised with the 992.2 will be a hybrid powertrain, as reported by Car and Driver. This new electrified engine won’t be PHEV-type as there will not be any need to plug it in for charging; instead, both combustion engine and regenerative braking will keep the battery full.

An electric motor capable of generating up to 90 horsepower is anticipated to be powered by a limited 2-kWh battery pack. It is thought that the e-motor would be placed beneath the fuel tank and serve to drive the front wheels.

The hybrid layout – which appears not to exceed a 55-pound (25kg) weight penalty – will be based around an adapted twin-turbo 3.0L flat-six generating an unconfirmed 395hp and 347 lb/ft of torque. With the addition of its electric motor, the collective output may be said to reach 478hp and 475 lb-ft. A more powerful 911 hybrid is rumored to produce 528hp. Apparently, the GT2 RS flagship model is also being considered as a hybrid with an estimated combined power that surpasses 800hp.

Naturally, accept this very overwhelming assortment of numbers with the customary grain of salt. At present, there are solely two absolutes: the 911 will soon be going hybrid however a totally electric adaptation will not be created this decade.

Source: Car and Driver