Sime Darby Auto Performance Archives

Porsche Achieves Growth In Revenue & Operating Result For 2018

Thanks to a strong third quarter, Porsche AG once again increased its operating result, revenue, deliveries and number of employees in the first nine months of 2018. The operating result compared with the same period in the previous year grew by around 11 per cent to 3.3 billion euros, with revenue increasing by 12 per cent to 19.1 billion euros. The return on sales was 17.4 percent. Deliveries grew by six percent, with the company handing over 196,562 vehicles to customers by the end of September. The workforce grew around eight per cent to reach 31,753 employees.

“The Panamera and our icon, the 911, enjoyed a particularly noticeable increase in demand,” says Oliver Blume, CEO of Porsche AG (above). “Behind all of this is our strong workforce, which is expanding towards a record level of 32,000 total employees. Around a quarter of the 1,200 jobs for our first purely electric sports car, the Taycan, have already been filled. Now that the Supervisory Board has given the green light for the Taycan Cross Turismo – the series-production version of our second electric sports car – we plan to take on an additional 300 people,” adds Blume.

According to Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board and Member of the Executive Board, Finance and IT at Porsche (above), the result for the third quarter is attributable in particular to positive mix effects and increased volume. A negative impact was caused by unfavourable currency fluctuations and high investments in electrification, as well as the development of new business fields.

“This result gives us momentum for the year-end sprint, which will be very challenging for us,” says Meschke. “In addition to economic and political uncertainties, we also have to deal with the changeover to the new WLTP test cycle and gasoline particulate filters, as well as the farewell to diesel.” The new emissions legislation has been in force in Europe since 1 September. As part of the changeover, the new models will be introduced in stages, resulting in a temporary restriction of the product range.

Porsche recorded particularly strong growth in deliveries in Europe in the first nine months of 2018, with an increase of nine percent to 66,551 units. Overall, the sports car manufacturer increased deliveries by six percent to 196,562 vehicles. In Germany alone, deliveries increased by 13 percent to 24,709 vehicles. Growth in China, the largest single market of Porsche, was also up four percent with 56,254 vehicles delivered.

In terms of the model ranges, the Panamera showed the largest percentage increase: up to the end of September, deliveries of the four-door sports car increased by 60 percent. In Europe, more than 60 percent of these vehicles were equipped with a plug-in hybrid drive. The 911 also saw double-digit growth with an increase of 19 percent. The highest-volume model ranges remain the Macan with 68,050 delivered vehicles and the Cayenne with 49,715 units.

Porsche expects deliveries for 2018 as a whole to reach the record level of the previous year again; in 2017, the sports car manufacturer delivered 246,375 vehicles to customers. Despite the major challenges in the fourth quarter, the company expects an increase in revenue for the 2018 fiscal year compared with the previous year due to improved mix effects. The aim is to achieve a stable operating result compared with the previous year. The strategic goal of an operating return on sales of 15 percent remains unchanged.

New Porsche Macan Launched in Europe [+Video]

The new Porsche Macan now comes with an efficient 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with improved combustion chamber geometry. It delivers a performance of 185 kW (252 hp) and has a maximum torque of 370 Nm. In combination with its seven-gear PDK dual-clutch gearbox, the compact SUV can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 225 km/h. Its consumption rate is 8.1 l/100 km according to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). With the model having received a full makeover, the most prominent new features in terms of design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics include the three-dimensional LED light panel at the rear and the new fully interconnected Porschecommunication management system with 10.9-inch touchscreen inside the vehicle. Check out the video!

Newly tuned chassis for enhanced balance
The vehicle dynamics of the Macan remain its core feature. The overhauled chassis increases comfort and makes the Macan even more enjoyable to drive. As is typical for a sports car, it comes with mixed-size tyres, enabling the driver to take full advantage of the benefits of the intelligent all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system and adopt a dynamic driving style. Newly developed tyres with improved performance characteristics allow for even better lateral dynamics. The wheel diameters range from 18 inches as standard to an optional 21 inches.

A more streamlined design with full LED lights and new colours
In keeping with Porsche’s design DNA, the new Macan features a three-dimensional LED light panel on the rear of the vehicle. The brake lights with their four-point design are another excellent embodiment of the brand’s identity. LED technology is incorporated as standard into the newly designed main headlights, while the PorscheDynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) option can be used to control light distribution adaptively. The Macan’s front end has been thoroughly redesigned and now appears wider. Drivers now have more scope to express their personality thanks to the addition of four new exterior colours – Mamba Green Metallic, Dolomite Silver Metallic, Miami Blue and Crayon.

Fully interconnected: the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system
The Macan offers a range of digital possibilities through the use of the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system. The full-HD touchscreen is now 10.9 inches in width (previously 7.2 inches). As in the Panamera and Cayenne, the user interface can be adapted to suit personal requirements via predefined tiles. Fully interconnected as standard, the new system features mobile phone preparation, two audio interfaces and intelligent voice control.

New options: GT sports steering wheel, air ioniser and traffic assistant
An expanded range of options with enhanced assist systems is available to choose from with the new Macan. The optional GT sports steering wheel echoes the style of the Porsche 911. A mode switch integrated into the steering wheel – including sport response button – is part of the optional sport chrono package that can be fitted in the Macan. Porsche has extended the list of options designed to enhance convenience, which now includes a heated windshield and an air ioniser that – together with the fine particulate air filter (fitted as standard) – improves the quality of the air inside the vehicle.

Available for enquiry now: the new Macan with more features included as standard
The new Macan is now available for enquiry at Porsche Centre Glenmarie, Sungai Besi, and Penang. The range of standard features has been expanded to include LED main headlights, the new PCM with online navigation and Connect Plus, and an anti-theft alarm system with interior surveillance.

VIDEOS: SDAP Launches Porsche 911 GT3 RS @ Sepang – Customers Take Delivery & Do Immediate Hot-Laps!

It’s not everyday that someone takes delivery of one of the three most iconic numbers in the automotive realm, and with that in mind, following its official launch which you can read about here, Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) the official importers of the Porsche brand in Malaysia, arranged a very special ‘handover’ ceremony for new owners of the 911 GT3 RS at the Sepang International Circuit! Check out the first video here…

“The new 911 GT3 RS is synonymous with hard core performance, and is hailed as the perfect bridge between the track and the road. At the heart the new 911 GT3 RS is a 383 kW (520 hp), four-litre, high-performance naturally-aspirated engine. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 312 km/h. Following the launch of the 911 GT2 RS, this latest release will see SDAP present its second GT road-approved sports car within the same year” – SDAP.

The following video is just a brief walkabout and wrap-up of the days events… as well as a look at some of the more classic 911’s that made the trip to Sepang recently…

What it’s like to drive the Porsche 911 GT3 … in 5-min or less

It’s a teeny bit hard to put into words the overall feeling of taking a 911 GT3 on track for the first time. Yes. it’s a bit intimidating, let’s not forget there’s over 500bhp on tap, with 0-100kmh seen to in 3.2sec… but to be honest, it’s far from the scariest drive you’ll ever have (being a passenger in the Porsche Carrera Cup Car on the other hand will give you a heart-attack for sure).

The 911 GT3 is whatever you want it to be. That’s the best way I can put it. For the five or so laps, I did a combination of driving that its owners would face. The car can be driven leisurely and it will just putter around sedately, comfortably and totally hide the fact that there’s a raving beast with serious anger-management issues sitting just a foot behind you.

To unleash the beast, just press the ‘loud buttons’ on the centre console, floor the accelerator pedal and hold-on. The 911 GT3 will then show you its true colours. The beauty of it all though, is that it doesn’t feel like a Funny Car dragster about to spiral out of control and send you butt-first into the shrubbery, in fact even in full beast-mode, the 911 GT3 feels composed, despite sounding like a MOAB ordinance device has just landed behind you.

Point it where you want it to go, and it goes there, hit the PCCB brakes where you want it to slow down and it will; you hit every apex, everytime. 20-inch lightweight wheels with 265/35 rubbers front, and 21 inch wheels with 325/30 tyres at the rear provide copious amounts of grip and ensure the intended path is always hit dead-on. Active safety systems react instantly to correct any messed-up manoeuvre.

And then once you’re done being a juvenile, turn off the aforementioned loud buttons, and all at once, almost instantly, the GT3 becomes just a sedate 2-door coupe again. It’s a miraculous transformation, one that needs to be experienced to be believed. There’s no such thing as ‘the perfect car’, it’ll never exist, but boy, the Porsche 911 GT3 comes pretty damn close folks. Now just imagine what the 911 GT3 RS would feel like… – Chris Wee.

SDAP To Enter Southern Region, Porsche Centre Johor Bahru Set For 2020!

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the authorised importer of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia, is expanding its footprint to the southern region with the upcoming Porsche Centre Johor Bahru. With an estimated investment of RM 48 million, the new Porsche Centre Johor Bahru will occupy an estimated build-up area of 58,311 sq ft on 74,052 sq ft of land. The state-of-the-art centre is yet another prominent addition to the development of the Porsche brand in Malaysia following the recent launch of Porsche Centre Penang in 2017.

“SDAP has been the sole importer of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia since 2010 and has continuously invested into the Porsche brand, with special dedication to state-of-the-art facilities and highly-skilled employees. We see a huge potential in the southern market, with the upcoming Porsche Centre Johor Bahru, it marks another milestone for Porsche in Malaysia,” said Christopher Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance. “I strongly believe in the long-term potential for Porsche in Malaysia and I am convinced that this latest addition will support our growth whilst assuring an outstanding experience for our customers,” he added.

A first for Porsche in Malaysia, the new 4S Porsche Centre will be equipped with a sales showroom, service workshop, spare parts warehouse, and a state-of-the-art body and paint centre. In assuring the same high standards of performance, SDAP sets the standard for both technical and ecological to be in accordance to Porsche AG requirements. The facility will be equipped with the latest Porsche technology, trained professionals, and the use of genuine Porsche parts, materials, tools and equipment.

“After Sales has proven to be the key differentiator in the luxury car business. As a customer-centric brand, peace-of-mind ownership experience is a pivotal element in our approach. With the inauguration of the latest facility, SDAP aims to fulfil growing customer requirements and enhance our After Sales competencies,” Christopher added. Construction work is expected to commence in end of 2018 and operations are set to begin in first quarter of 2020.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Makes Its Debut In Malaysia, Priced At RM2.2 Million!

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the importer of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia, has introduced the new 911 GT3 RS. The new 911 GT3 RS is synonymous with hard core performance, and is hailed as the perfect bridge between the track and the road. At the heart the new 911 GT3 RS is a 383 kW (520 hp), four-litre, high-performance naturally-aspirated engine. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 312 km/h. Following the launch of the 911 GT2 RS, this latest release will see SDAP present its second GT road-approved sports car within the same year.

“With a lap time of 6 minutes and 56.4 seconds, the new 911 GT3 RS sets a time of just nine seconds below the most powerful Porsche 911, the GT2 RS. Motorsport is an essential driving force behind the Porsche development team, a force that makes motorsport derived technology perfectly adapted for the road,” said Christopher Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance. “The new 911 GT3 RS promises an unadulterated sound, pure performance, and a challenge that a sports car enthusiast cannot resist,” he added.

Aerodynamics and interior based on the race trim
Aerodynamics have determined the design of the wide, weight-optimised body with its classic rigid rear wing. The racing look continues into the interior with full bucket seats made of carbon to provide secure lateral support in response to high-level driving dynamics. Lightweight door panels with storage nets and opening loops, reduced sound absorption and the new lightweight rear lid further emphasise the consistency of the material choices.

The most powerful naturally aspirated engine at 520 hp
The four-litre, six-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine from Porsche in the new 911 GT3 RS pushes the sports car to new limits: The flat engine delivers 15 kW (20 hp) more than the engine in the previous model and the 911 GT3. Together with a speed range of up to 9,000 rpm, it was the ideal choice as a thoroughbred sports engine. Combined with the specially calibrated seven-speed PDK, the high-performance engine guarantees an outstanding driving performance.

Motorsport-inspired chassis and Clubsport package
Motorsport technology ensures that the chassis offers exceptional driving dynamics. Ball joints on all arms provide even greater precision than conventional elastokinematic bearings. 20-inch lightweight wheels with newly developed 265/35 sports tyres on the front axle enhance agility and steering behaviour, while 21 inch wheels with 325/30 tyres at the rear axle improve traction. As with all current GT sports cars, the Clubsport package is also available for the 911 GT3 RS at no extra cost. The package includes a rollover bar, a manual fire extinguisher, preparation for a battery disconnect switch and a six-point belt for a sporty driving experience.

Weissach package for additional weight savings
For particularly ambitious drivers, the Porsche motorsport department has created an optional Weissach package for a further weight reduction. The package features additional carbon components for the chassis, interior and exterior. In its lightest configuration, this package reduces the weight of the 911 GT3 RS by approximately 17kg.

The retail base price for the new 911 GT3 RS starts from RM 2,230,000, which includes a four-year warranty. The stated price includes all applicable duties, except registration fee, road tax and insurance. Specifications and prices are subject to change without prior notice.

The new Porsche Cayenne Turbo!
Making its Malaysian premiere, the new Porsche Cayenne Turbo takes its place at the top of the Cayenne model line. The completely new top-of-the-range model from the third generation of the Cayenne once again raises the bar for sporty performance in its segment. The increased driving dynamics are based on the combination of innovative technologies such as active aerodynamics including a roof spoiler, controlled three-chamber air suspension, mixed tyres and the new high-performance brake, achieving the driving characteristics of a true sports car. As yet the MY pricing for the new Cayenne Turbo has not been finalised.

The new 911 GT3 RS and Cayenne Turbo will be at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur from today October 10 to October 14, 2018.

911 GT3 RS: combined fuel consumption 12.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 291 g/km
Cayenne Turbo: combined fuel consumption 11.9–11.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 272–267 g/km

FEATURE: Porsche World Premiere: Exclusive New Edition Of The Porsche 935 Revealed! [+Video]

Don’t even bother to ask how much this costs, because all 77 units are likely sold by the time you read this. Porsche has unveiled the new 935 on the occasion of the historic “Rennsport Reunion” motorsport event at Laguna Seca Raceway in California. The 515 kW (700 hp) racer featuring a body reminiscent of the legendary Porsche 935/78 will be produced in a limited number of 77 units. “This spectacular car is a birthday present from Porsche Motorsport to fans all over the world,” says Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, Vice President Motorsport and GT Cars. “Because the car isn’t homologated, engineers and designers didn’t have to follow the usual rules and thus had freedom in the development.”

The race car’s technology for clubsport events and private training on racetracks is based on the 911 GT2 RS high-performance sports car. Like its historic predecessor, most of the body has been replaced or supplemented by carbon-fibre composite parts (CFRP). With its streamlined extended rear, the 935 reaches a length of 4.87 metres. The width of the exclusive clubsport racer measures 2.03 metres.

The spectacular aerodynamics is a completely new development and pays tribute to the Porsche 935/78 Le Mans race car, which fans dubbed “Moby Dick” due to its elongated shape, massive fairings and white base colour. The distinctive wheel arch air vents on the front fairings, which also feature on the GT3 Porsche 911 GT3 R customer vehicle, increase downforce at the front axle. Measuring 1,909 millimetres in width by 400 millimetres in depth, the rear wing lends aerodynamic balance.

Many details of the exterior are a salute to winning vehicles from the company’s motor racing history: The aerodynamically capped rims echo those of the 935/78, with the LED rear lights on the rear wing endplates adopted from the 919 Hybrid LMP1 race car. The side mirrors hail from the current Le Mans-winning 911 RSR, with the exposed titanium tailpipes modelled on the Porsche 908 from 1968.

These references are carried through to the cockpit. The knob on the gearshift lever has a laminated wood design and is reminiscent of racers such as the 917, the 909 Bergspyder and the Carrera GT super sports car. The carbon steering wheel and the colour display behind it have been taken from the 911 GT3 R from the 2019 model year. A massive safety cage combined with a racing bucket seat and a six-point safety harness ensure maximum safety. A second seat for the passenger is available as an optional extra. Air conditioning provides optimal cooling of the interior.

The new 935 is powered by a state-of-the-art 3.8-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo engine, which is largely identical to the high-performance standard unit mounted in the road-legal 911 GT2 RS. Power is transferred to the rear engine via a seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) with rigid gearbox suspension at the 310-millimetre-wide rear axle. Like in the GT road models of the 911, the driver changes gears via conveniently positioned shift paddles on the steering wheel. Typical of the 911, the weight distribution ensures excellent traction and braking performances. Six-piston aluminium monobloc racing callipers on the front axle in combination with internally ventilated and grooved steel brake discs with a 390-millimeter diameter provide excellent deceleration values at the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with four-piston callipers and 355-millimeter discs.

Like the road-legal 911 GT2 RS, the 1,380-kilogram 935 is equipped with PSM (Porsche Stability Management) including traction control as well as an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Thanks to the map switch, these assistance systems can be adjusted separately or switched off completely, depending on the driving situation. Full specifications after the gallery and video below…

Technical description Porsche 935 (Type 991, Gen. 2)

Concept:
• Single-seater near-standard non-homologated race car.
• Basis: Porsche 911 GT2 RS (991.2)

Weight/dimensions:
• Weight: ca. 1,380 kg
• Length: 4,865 mm
• Width: 2,034 mm (incl. side mirrors)
• Total height: 1,359 mm
• Wheelbase: 2.457 mm

Engine:
• Water-cooled 6-cylinder aluminium twin-turbo rear-mounted boxer engine and rigid suspension; 3,800 cc; stroke 77.5 mm; bore 102 mm; ca. 515 kW (700 hp)
• 4-valve technology with camshaft adjustment and valve-lift switchover
Vario-Cam Plus
• Electronic engine management (Continental SDI 9)
• DMSB-approved 100-cell metal catalytic converter
• Rear silencer with twin tailpipes mounted centrally, Heritage Design

Transmission:
• 7-speed PDK gearbox with rigid suspension and short throw
• Dual mass flywheel
• Internal pressurised oil lubrication with active oil cooling
• Limited slip differential optimised for racing

Bodywork:
• Weight-optimised bodyshell in aluminium-steel composite design with carbon-fibre Kevlar add-on parts to improve aerodynamics and stability
• Rear wing with lights integrated in endplates
• Enlarged air inlets with integrated LED headlights in 4-point design
• Removable escape hatch in roof complying with FIA Art. 275a
• Aerodynamically optimised side mirrors
• 115-litre FT3 safety fuel cell with fuel cut-off safety valve in compliance with FIA Art. 253 in the front, optional with fast-fill coupling
• Welded-in safety cage
• Recaro racing bucket seat with longitudinal seat adjustment and padding system in accordance with FIA Standard 8862/2009
• 6-point safety harness
• Air jack system (three jacks)
• Fire extinguishing system with electronic release unit

Suspension:
Front axle: MacPherson suspension strut; forged suspension links, optimised stiffness with high-performance spherical bearings, centre-locking wheel nuts; 3-way racing dampers, reinforced tie-rod; Electro-mechanical power steering with variable steering ratio; anti-roll bar

Rear axle: Lightweight multi-link suspension, strut ball jointed (Unibal); centre-locking wheel nuts; 3-way racing dampers; anti-roll bar

Brakes:
Brake system:
• Two separate brake circuits for front and rear axles; adjustable via brake balance bar system

Front axle:
• Six-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with anti-knock-back piston springs; steel brake discs, internally ventilated with 380 mm diameter, racing brake pads, optimised brake cooling ducts

Rear axle:
• Four-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with anti-knock-back piston springs; steel brake discs, internally ventilated with 355 mm diameter, racing brake pads, optimised brake cooling ducts

Electrical system:
• Instrument cluster consisting of COSWORTH ICD with integrated data logger, sport Chrono watch and boost gauge in a vintage finish
• CFK multifunction steering wheel with pit speed limiter and quick-release coupling
• PSM (Porsche Stability Management) with ABS, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (able to be completely switched off)
• Centre console with map switch to adjust the ABS, ESC, TC and switch between preset tyre circumferences
• Porsche Track Precision Race App
• Integrated lap trigger
• Lightweight lithium-ion (Li-Fe-Po-) battery, 60 Ah, leakproof, mounted in passenger footwell
• Emergency cut-off switch in cockpit and outside left of the windscreen
• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
• Air conditioning

Rims/Tyres:
Front axle: One-piece light-alloy forged wheels
11.5J x 18 offset 15.3 with centre-locking nut; Michelin transport tyres 29/65-R18

Rear axle: One-piece light-alloy forged wheels
13J x 18 offset -10 with centre-locking nut; Michelin transport tyres 31/71-R18

Colour:
Agate gray water-based paint; optional: Martini livery

Combined fuel consumption 11.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 269 g/km

MID-WEEK FEATURE: Porsche 911 Carrera T – It’s The Only Porsche You’ll Ever Need, But Can’t Have!

It’s been around looking largely the same for 50 years. Yes, fifty! Five zero. I guess when something is made right the first time out, there’s little need to improve on perfection is there? Even changing the shape of the headlights for the 996 line brought on the wrath of Porsche purists everywhere, some of whom were prepared to go to war with Porsche AG I’m sure. Ask anyone what’s the epitome of a true driver’s car and 9 times out of 10, the ‘nine eleven’ would be the answer.

It’s every boy-racers dream, it’s been hanging on bedroom walls in poster form for as long as bedroom walls have been around, and it’s likely to be the stuff of dreams to many, for many, many more years to come… and before we get into the nitty-gritty, have a look at our first video introduction to the Porsche 911 Carrera T. Exiting the lobby of the Andaz Hotel in Singapore recently, there she was…

Lovely isn’t it? Thus the saddest five words I’ve heard recently after having sampled the delectable new Porsche 911 Carrera T in Singapore were “it’s not coming to Malaysia”… Yes folks, what you see here will likely only remain here in the digital world for the immediate future because Sime Darby Auto Performance, the official importers of this iconic brand in Malaysia, has no plans to bring the 911 Carrera T into the country. However, if for some reason you feel the desperate need to have one (who wouldn’t) you could head over to the Porsche Centres in Glenmarie, Sg.Besi and Penang to inquire; something tells me they could bring one in for you.

Built to celebrate 70 Years of the Porsche brand and 50 years of the iconic 911 itself, the Carrera T – the ‘T’ stands for Touring – is holding steadfast to the ‘Race on Sunday, drive to work on Monday’ credo that’s been the hallmark of the 911 lineage for as long as I can remember. Indeed while its performance figures of 370bhp and 450Nm are not to be trifled with, it’s the way in which the twin-turbocharged ‘flat-six’ engine puts the power down on asphalt through the rear wheels via its 7-speed PDK gearbox, that will bring a grin so wide to anyone who drives this car; a grin so massive that only plastic surgery will be able to remove it. Wanna grin even wider? Get the 7-speed MANUAL transmission Carrera T. Yes, there is one… three pedals yo.

Boasting a top-speed of 291km/h and a century sprint time of 4.2 sec, the Carrera T may be a heritage model, but it is by no means a slouch, and as with every 911, there’s no shortage of active safety systems to keep you on the intended path, despite whatever nefarious intentions you may have. A host of passive safety systems are also at hand to prevent you from becoming a crimson stain on the road. For the full specifications list, click to download this: Porsche 911 Carrera T Specs & Features

Singapore is a curious choice for any carmaker to have a test drive in, what more a Porsche 911. I’ll be honest, my first reaction upon getting this invite and finding out it was taking place in S’pore was somewhere along the lines of “Seriously??” It’s a known fact that supercar owners in Singapore – and there are many of them – often jump the border over to Malaysia if they want to stretch their cars’ legs a bit, the Sepang Circuit being a fave haunt of theirs, but here we were, doing the exact opposite. Let’s put it this way, from a standstill, the 911 Carrera T will get you a speeding ticket in 4 seconds….

Well, thankfully the organisers must have also realised this, because they managed to find a few deserted places (I saw lots of shipping containers go by in a kaleidoscope-ish blur) on which we were able to ‘let loose’ a few of those 370 horses and 450Nm’s of torques, which by the way is available from as low as 1,700rpm. As I mentioned earlier, the Carrera T is quite possibly the most ‘liveable’ 911 to come along in a while. I reckon of all the 911 models available, insofar as a 911 being used as a daily-runner is concerned, the Carrera T is definitely it.

In normal driving conditions like in the video above, it will even return a respectable combined fuel-consumption of 8.5L per 100km, as you cruise along sedately in normal mode, with the ‘enhanced’ exhaust sound turned off. Make no mistake though, once the traffic clears and you find yourself in an area full of shipping containers like we did, just plant your right foot, hold on and watch the unholy transformation unfold before your eyes.

Any gear, any speed, any driving mode, Normal, Sport, Sport+, it doesn’t matter, just hit the accelerator pedal the Carrera T goes from docile to delinquent in a shorter time than it took you to read the last six words of this sentence. This is not an exaggeration, there is zero lag in this car. But as aforementioned, it’s the way the Carrera T puts this power down that really impresses. Sure-footed doesn’t even begin to describe it, as the Carrera T seems to relish whatever you can possibly throw at it. It’s actually quite amazing just how far you can push this car before the active driver assist systems kick in. While the ‘T’ does indeed stand for Touring, never forget it could also stand for turbo, two of them in fact…

Here’s my final-say, wrap-up and 360 walk-about of the Porsche 911 Carrera T, hope you enjoyed this journey as much as I did filming and driving this amazing car! – Chris Wee.

Porsche 911 Carrera T Photo Gallery…

This is a video of me at the wheel of the Carrera T in Singapore, unfortunately there’s no audio whatsoever. – CW.

Porsche Presents The New Macan, A World Premiere In Shanghai [+Video]

Porsche has unveiled the new Macan in Shanghai. The compact SUV has been a great success since its launch in 2014, and has now been significantly enhanced in terms of its design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics, allowing the Macan to remain the sporty flagship in its segment. The new Macan stays true to the Porsche design DNA with a three-dimensional LED tail light strip.

LED technology also features in the headlights as standard. The most striking innovations inside the vehicle include the 11-inch touchscreen of the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), re-designed and re-positioned air vents and the GT sports steering wheel familiar from the 911. Here’s the debut video…

LED headlights and new tail light strip as standard…
Thanks to a number of conscious changes to the exterior, the new Macan now has an even sportier and more modern look. Numerous details reflect the DNA of the iconic 911 sports car and the 918 Spyder. In particular, the topic of lighting plays a key role: The new Macan is equipped with headlights featuring LED technology as standard. This high-quality lighting system featuring modules with a three-dimensional design can be further optimised if desired.

The Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS) can be used to adaptively control the light distribution. The front end of the Macan has been meticulously re-worked so that it now appears even wider, while the comprehensive overhaul at the rear builds on the sleek design of the predecessor model. The three-part, three-dimensional LED light strip represents another typical Porsche design element at the rear. The four-point design of the brake lights also reflects the brand’s identity.

New options: GT sports steering wheel and ioniser…
The link to the 911 is consolidated in the interior of the new Macan with the optional GT sports steering wheel. The mode switch plus Sport Response Button integrated into the steering wheel is also showcased in the Macan as part of the optional Sports Chrono Package. Porsche has extended the list of comfort options to include a heated windscreen and an ioniser to improve the air quality in the interior. New exterior colours such as “Miami Blue”, “Mamba Green Metallic”, “Dolomite Silver Metallic” and “Crayon” combined with new interior packages ensure that the Macan is now more customisable than ever before.

11-inch touchscreen display…
Through the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), the Macan offers numerous digital functions. Above the typical Porsche rising centre console, a full-HD touchscreen enlarged from seven to eleven inches has been incorporated seamlessly into the newly designed instrument panel. Just like in the Panamera and Cayenne, the user interface on the infotainment system can be customised using predefined tiles. The air vents have also been re-designed and are now positioned below the central screen.

Optimised chassis with new tyres and wheels…
Thanks to its optimised chassis, the new Macan is able to consolidate its exceptional status as a sports car in the compact SUV segment. Fine-tuning of the chassis delivers enhanced neutrality while maintaining stability and improving comfort. Although unusual for the SUV segment, the Macan still features mixed tyres with different widths on the front and rear axles.

As with Porsche sports cars, this arrangement enables the driver to take full advantage of the intelligent, all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) when it comes to driving dynamics. Newly developed tyres with improved performance characteristics enable even better lateral dynamics for enhanced driving pleasure, while the new 20- and 21-inch wheels also offer greater scope to customise the design.

A model of success: more than 350,000 Macan deliveries since 2014…
The Macan is a genuine success story. The combination of typical Porsche performance on any terrain coupled with a high degree of everyday practicality impressed customers right from the start: Since 2014, Porsche has delivered more than 350,000 units. With over 100,000 deliveries to date, the model is especially popular in the Chinese market where Porsche unveiled the redesigned compact SUV. The model presented in Shanghai will be offered exclusively in the Chinese market. Other models and markets will follow during the course of the year.

SCTD In Bangkok: Porsche Celebrates 70th Anniversary @ Thai Capital City In Fine Style!

Held recently, Sportscar Together Day (SCTD) in Bangkok, Southeast Asia’s largest Porsche gathering to celebrate 70 years of Porsche sports cars, featured supercars and superstars, races, plus fun-filled activities that catered for petrolheads and families alike.

Thousands came to the event at Show DC Oasis Arena and more than 300 Porsche cars arrived throughout the course of the day, despite rain or shine. In parallel, droves of spectators turned up to watch 911 GT3 Cup cars tackle the challenging corners of the street circuit perched at Bangsaen beach for Porsche Carrera Cup Asia (PCCA).

70 years after the first sports car to bear the Porsche name, the 1948 356 “No.1” Roadster, received its general operating permit, the brand is celebrating its heritage, while at the same time looking resolutely to the future, in anticipation of its first all-electric model, the Taycan.

Throughout the day at Show DC Oasis Arena, guests were entertained by performances from celebrities including Thai singer-songwriter Singto Numchok, R&B idol and role-model mother Lydia Sarunrat, and top local disc jockey DJ Yukio, with actress, presenter and Instagram-celebrity Diana Chungjintanakarn presiding as emcee.

Crowning the evening at Show DC Oasis Arena, the Porsche family joined Singto Numchok to cut a giant cake, made of 400 individual cupcakes arranged in a mosaic forming the Porsche logo in a photo-finish moment.

In parallel, AAS Auto Service (AAS), the sole authorised importer and distributor of Porsche cars in Thailand, had a beachside hospitality at Bangsaen where guests enjoyed watching the PCCA race while having a view of the Gulf of Thailand.

Adding to the impressively varied fleet of Porsche owner cars as well as “Das Treffen” vehicles over the two locations of SCTD, Porsche Asia Pacific flew in straight from Zuffenhausen, Germany a Porsche 918 Spyder. It is owned by the Porsche Museum, and is a powerful mid-engine plug-in hybrid sports car that smashed the Nürburgring record of seven minutes. The same sports car was driven by Jacky Ickx at PCCA in Bangsaen, who made a guest appearance doing a viewing lap of the meandering circuit before the race began.

The Porsche Museum also loaned its legendary 959 Paris-Dakar, a technology demonstrator that earned its stripes in one of the world’s toughest rallies, completing the 13,800 km desert course with a one-two victory in 1986.

The 919 Hybrid, which is on its Tribute Tour across the world, made a stop in Bangkok and reunited symbolically with Porsche Works Driver Earl Bamber, who raced it to multiple victories at the World Endurance Championship (WEC), including 4 wins and 5 podiums in the 2017 season. It too did a parade around the Bangsaen circuit to the delight of its fans.

It was a truly special day not just for car lovers. Sanjay Rekhi, a Porsche Club Singapore member who planned an elaborate surprise proposal to his girlfriend right at Show DC Oasis Arena, was overjoyed when she said an emphatic ‘yes’ surrounded by dozens of balloons and thunderous applause.

Arthur Willmann, Managing Director of Porsche Asia Pacific, said: “Sportscar Together Day brings together the Porsche community and fans, as well as their friends and families. The year 2018 marks the 70th anniversary of the brand and we want to celebrate the milestone by remembering where we came from, what we have achieved and the future that we will be embracing. Das Treffen is also proof of the dedication of the Thai people to Porsche, and we wanted to reciprocate that love by hosting our signature event here.”

He added: “Thailand has been a great market for us. It is one of the largest in the region, boasting three Porsche centres. I am also pleased to announce that the highly-anticipated Porsche Studio at Icon Siam, the fourth Porsche facility in Thailand, is opening by the end of this year.”

After travelling a few thousand kilometres from all over Southeast Asia, Porsche Club members, owners as well as media colleagues arrived to the SCTD in a Porsche car procession worthy of the feted marque. They were accompanied by police escorts that ushered their grand arrival to Southeast Asia’s largest Porsche gathering.

Some cars had travelled from as far as Singapore and Malaysia, while others were just from the neighbourhood. The vehicles represent a cross section of Porsche’s illustrious history, including every single model in the Porsche range – the 911, 718 Boxster & 718 Cayman, the Panamera, the Cayenne and the Macan. Remarkably, 6 air-cooled Porsche cars from Singapore also made the trip up to Bangkok, their durability matched equally with the passion of its drivers. All were united by their great sporting heritage and their owners’ unwavering love for the Porsche brand.

While it was Porsche’s 70th birthday, it was the carmaker who did all the giving. Benefiting children from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the local arm of a global charity organisation that grants wishes for children with critical illnesses, Porsche cut a cheque for THB 356,000 that was presented on stage. The figure was not a coincidence; it was a nod to the Porsche 356 “No.1” Roadster that started it all 70 years ago.