Since Porsche stopped producing the 928 model in 1995, after an 18-year run, the German automaker has gone without a front-engine coupe to compete with the likes of the BMW M6, Jaguar XKR, Aston-Martin DB9, and Mercedes CL-class.
Porsche is a high-performance four-seat luxury coupe based on its first-ever sedan, the 2010 Panamera.
Coupe buyers will choose from a selection of Porsche’s next-generation direct-injection-equipped V-8 engines. The Cayenne SUV will also get these new V-8s. Power is expected to be about 350 horses upward, with turbo versions making in excess of 500. There are rumors regarding a possible 6.0-liter V-10, which would reportedly make about 650 horsepower. Transmission choices should mirror those found in the Panamera — a seven-speed, dual-clutch DSG in the automatic role and a six-speed manual for those who insist on traditional shifting. There are no plans for an all-wheel-drive version. Like the 928 that preceded it, this coupe will be rear-wheel drive, with a transaxle helping to balance weight distribution.
The way I see it, Porsche doesn’t need to produce something to compete with an M6, CL class or XKR, the 911 already does a mighty fine job!