The Porsche 911 Targa is back for 2020, featuring the classic roll hoop and $275,800 starting price before on-road costs.
Following in the footsteps of the coupe and convertible, the Targa features a further developed version of the electric roof debuted on the previous-generation model.
When the driver wants to catch some sunlight, the rear glass panel lifts and the roof is automatically stowed beneath it.
Porsche says the mechanism is similar to that of the previous-generation Targa, albeit with plenty of changes to make it fit in the 992 body. Although it varies depending on options, the Targa is roughly 20kg heavier than a 911 Convertible.
Like the beautiful, classic Targa models of the 1960s, the 2020 Targa has a silver roll hoop behind the driver to show passers-by it’s not just another coupe.
And like the previous 991-generation model, the 2020 Targa will only be available with all-wheel drive.
The base 911 Targa 4 is powered by a turbocharged flat-six engine making 283kW of power and 450Nm of torque, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
It’ll hit 100km/h in just 4.2 seconds from standstill, and tops out at 289km/h.
Meanwhile, the range-topping Targa 4S ups power to 331kW and torque to 530Nm, good for a 3.6-second run to 100km/h and 304km/h top speed.
Porsche has pitched the Targa as a high-tech flagship for the non-Turbo 911 range.
Frank-Steffen Walliser, head of the Porsche 718 and 911 model lines, told Australian media the Targa is traditionally among the most heavily-optioned 911 variants.
“We’ve figured out that these Targa customers, well let’s say they do not really look for the dollars,” he said.
“We see cars with a lot of options – I would say fully-loaded. They look for the biggest engines… but that’s what we call a really good customer!”
The Targa range rides on an active suspension (PASM) as standard, while the 4S gets an uprated torque-vectoring rear differential (PTV) as well. Thanks to Porsche’s new SmartLift system, the nose lifter will automatically activate at pre-programmed locations.
The Targa 4 rides on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, while the 4S up both those sizes by an inch. The range-topping (for now) Targa 4S features 350mm brake discs, up 20mm on the base model. Carbon-ceramic brakes are optional.
Inside, the cabin shares its bones with the wider 911 range. That means the driver is faced with an analogue rev counter flanked by two displays, while the infotainment screen measures 10.9 inches.
In Australia, standard kit will include LED headlights with the PDLS Plus dynamic lighting system, a grey top-tinted windscreen, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, metallic paint, a surround-view camera, lane-change assist, keyless entry and start, seat heating, digital radio, and a Bose surround sound system will be standard.
Pricing starts at $275,800 before on-road costs for the Targa 4, and $314,100 for the Targa 4S.
Porsche is also promising a special edition to “further extend the combination of traditional style elements, timeless design and cutting-edge technology” in June.
