Review Porsche 911 coupe

"The latest 911 Carrera is lighter, lower and faster than the previous model, but also manages to be more comfortable." One of the longest running sports cars in existence, the latest Porsche 911- code-named the 991, will go on sale in the UK from December 2011. Featuring a lower roof, more bulbous headlights and sharper tail-lights the front track is also wider, improving handling. The engines have received several tweaks too. The standard Carrera's 3.6-litre flat six cylinder engine is replaced by a smaller 3.4 that is more efficient but produces more power, at 345bhp. The 3.8-litre found in the Carrera S now produces 394bhp. Performance when fitted with the PDK twin-clutch gearbox and optional Sport Chrono Pack is very impressive. The standard Carrera sprints from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds whilst the Carrera S can nail the benchmark in just 4.1 seconds. The interior has received a major makeover that is inspired by the Panamera, but with fewer switches. Most owners will opt for the PDK gearbox but Porsche also offer a seven-speed manual option - the first of it's kind in a production car. Drive5.0 /5 Peerless driving experience The Porsche 911 is one of the most capable sports cars on sale, the result of nearly 50 years of development and fine tuning. Offering very precise steering that responds to even the smallest of driver inputs, performance is equally as impressive. Carrera S models fitted with the optional Sport Chrono Pack can go from 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds and reach 187mph flat-out. The 911 also makes a fabulous noise when driven enthusiastically. Fitted as standard with a 7-speed manual gearbox, Porsche offer an excellent seven-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles, priced at around £2,400. Comfort4.5 /5 New interior increases comfort levels The near-perfect driving position, fantastic seats and well-judged suspension settings mean that driving the 911 everyday or over long distances induces very few aches and pains. The smart new interior is a big improvement over the old model, featuring fewer buttons and a design that is similar to the four-seater Panamera. Reliability4.5 /5 Highly dependable Porsche has worked hard to create a more upmarket feel inside the new 911, a feature you notice as soon as you enter the superbly designed cabin. Taking inspiration from the Porsche Panamera, the new dash layout is clear and easy to use, all the switches and controls are also very high quality. Every model is fitted with a host of safety features too, including driver, passenger and side airbags and PDCC traction control. Practicality3.0 /5 Easy to live with but lacking luggage space The rear-engined Porsche 911 possesses a 2+2 layout with small rear seats suitable only for very young children. There is a small luggage area located under the bonnet but owners looking to accommodate a set of golf clubs, will have to use the rear seats. Nevertheless, despite the lack of luggage space and considering its sporting credentials, the 911 still offers enough practicality to be used on a daily basis. Value for money3.0 /5 Entry level Carrera models offer good value for money All models are very well equipped and come as standard with leather interior, sports seats and 19 or 20-inch alloy wheels. Even entry-level Carrera models recieve the comprehensive Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, controlling audio navigation and communication. Optional extras are very expensive however - electric seats for example, cost an eye-watering £3,739. Running costs4.0 /5 Powerful but surprisingly economical Capable of 34.4mpg and 194g/km (£245 UK Road Tax) in Carrera PDK form, the latest 911 provides impressive fuel economy for such a powerful sports car. The faster Carrera S models are capable of 32.4mpg when fitted with the optional PDK seven-speed automatic gearbox and stop/start fuel saving device. Compared to rivals such as the V8-engined Jaguar XK, the 911 carries significantly lower running costs.