Three world premieres at Motor Shows in Los Angeles, Tokyo and Guangzhou for Porsche

• Three world premieres at Motor Shows in Los Angeles, Tokyo and Guangzhou
• All-new Porsche Macan headlines at Los Angeles Auto Show – bringing Porsche performance to the compact sports utility segment of the market for the first time
• 570 hp Panamera Turbo S Gran Turismo debuts at the Tokyo Show
• Los Angeles also sees the 911 Turbo Cabriolet and Turbo S Cabriolet unveiled
• 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid super sports car makes first formal public appearance in Los Angeles and Guangzhou

From November 20, Porsche will unveil a total of three new models at Motor Shows in Los Angeles (USA), Tokyo (Japan) and Guangzhou (China). The highlight of this cavalcade of trade fair appearances will be the global unveiling of the new Porsche Macan at the Los Angeles Auto Show, which brings Porsche performance to a completely new segment of the market. The world premiere of the Macan signals the official start of communications for this exciting new member of the Porsche family.

The new 911 Turbo Cabriolet will also be making its début in Los Angeles, while the Panamera Turbo S will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show. Almost simultaneously, the 918 Spyder super sports car will be premiered to the Chinese and US public in Guangzhou and Los Angeles.

The new Macan will be showcased for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show on the Porsche stand in the Petree Hall. The model will be unveiled on the eve of the Show on 19 November, at 19:55 (20 November, 3:55 CET). The premiere of the Porsche Macan will be broadcast live at the following link: www.porsche.com/macan.

The Porsche press conference on 20 November will take place at 11:35 (20 November, 21:35 CET) at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The press conference from the Tokyo Motor Show, at which the Panamera Turbo S will be unveiled for the first time, will take place on 20 November at 13:15 (20 November, 4:10 CET).

The new 911 Turbo Cabriolet and 911 Turbo S Cabriolet will also make their first public appearances in Los Angeles. The open-roofed 911 Turbo models deliver the same blend of dynamism, performance and efficiency as the Coupé introduced a few months ago. The twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine delivers 520 hp (383 kW) in the 911 Turbo and 560 hp (412 kW) in the Turbo S, with the capability to reach a top speed of up to 197 mph. Both the new Cabriolet models balance this outstanding performance with fuel economy of 28.5 mpg on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), equivalent to 231 g/km CO2.

In Tokyo, Porsche is presenting a new addition to the Panamera range that epitomises the Gran Turismo attributes of performance and luxury: the Turbo S is the fastest, most powerful and most luxurious Panamera yet. With a power output of 570 hp and a top speed of 192 mph, plus a breadth of dynamic and comfort features, the Panamera Turbo S is guaranteed special status at the top of the range.

The 918 Spyder will be making its formal public débuts in China and the USA. The super sports car with plug-in hybrid drive represents the ultimate extension of the traditional Porsche DNA in a ground-breaking manner. Designed from the outset to be a high-performance hybrid sports car, the 918 Spyder boasts an unprecedented combination of performance courtesy of its 887 hp combined output and the virtually silent propulsion of an electric vehicle. The vehicle is able to accelerate from 0 - 62 mph in 2.6 seconds and offers a standard level of fuel consumption of between 91 mpg and 94 mpg.

Tokyo is the place to be to see the new Porsche Panamera turbo S

• Panamera Turbo S model makes debut at Tokyo Motor Show: 22 Nov -1 Dec
• Uprated 570 hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine combines 0-62mph in 3.8 secs with 27.7 mpg NEDC
• All-wheel drive four door, four seater epitomises the Gran Turismo concept
• Features advanced adaptive chassis technology and exclusive styling details
• Priced from £131,049, on sale now with deliveries from January 2014

Combining a power output of 570 hp with an extensive level of dynamic and comfort-oriented features, the four door, four seat Porsche Panamera Turbo S epitomises the Gran Turismo concept. The new 192 mph saloon car will be guaranteed special status at the pinnacle of the range when it celebrates its world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show (22 November - 1 December).

The sporting and luxurious character of the new Panamera Turbo S is evident not only in its driving performance, but also in its distinctive appearance. For example, the dynamic potential is hinted at by the 20-inch 911 Turbo II wheels, which are not only larger but also significantly wider than the standard wheels on other models. And the metallic exterior paint colour, Palladium, that is available solely for the new model not only brings an air of exclusivity but also enhances the purposeful, elegant contours.

New turbochargers and a higher injection pressure boost power by 50 hp

A 50 hp increase in power compared to the Panamera Turbo engine has been achieved through specific revisions to a number of components. Two new turbochargers with larger compressors are fitted to the Turbo S, which increase the air flow and permit more air to be injected into the combustion chambers at high loads and engine speeds. In addition, the injection pressure has been increased by 20 bar to 140 bar. Together, both of these measures also enable higher component loads, and this in turn has been compensated by pistons made from a new aluminium alloy and specially coated piston rings.

This approach has two further advantages. By preparing the air:fuel mixture in the combustion chambers more effectively, torque increases by 50 Nm to 750 Nm between 2,250 and 5,000 rpm, with the overboost increasing to 800 Nm. The extra torque makes the engine even more responsive, such as when overtaking, for instance. The second enhancement is the fact that the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) fuel consumption figures for the new model are the same as those of the Panamera Turbo at 27.7 mpg; which is an improvement of over 11 per cent versus the prior model.

When fitted with the optional sports exhaust system, the Panamera Turbo S offers drivers the opportunity to further revel in the mellifluous sound of the V8. This unique sound experience is achieved by means of an acoustic channel that can be switched at the push of a button; the channel directs the engine sound straight into the interior.

In addition, individual cylinders are skipped when switching up a gear, allowing the engine speed to fall faster and the clutch to engage quickly.

Sport Chrono package enhances sporty handling characteristics

The new Panamera Turbo S is perfectly equipped to convert its increased power and torque to further emphasise the driving dynamics. At the heart of this is the optimum power transmission, the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive system. The Sport Chrono package is fitted as standard, and coordinates the drivetrain and chassis configuration at the touch of a button to guarantee consistently sporting responses. Furthermore, the overboost function is activated in ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’ mode as well as during kickdown in ‘Normal’ mode; the overboost function temporarily increases the turbocharger boost pressure to enable even swifter acceleration and sprinting capability. The ‘Launch Control’ race start function guarantees the best possible acceleration by optimally coordinating the responses of the engine control system and the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) gearshift programme. Courtesy of a reworked gear shifting strategy, the PDK changes between its seven gears even more rapidly, accelerating the Turbo S from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds.

Chassis with all Panamera assistance systems

Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is the centre-piece of the chassis control systems, combining adaptive air suspension and adaptive damper control as standard. The PASM continuously adjusts the damper forces and adapts them to suit road conditions and driving style. Using the PASM chassis button on the centre console, the driver can choose between three performance maps – ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’. Similarly, the adaptive air suspension offers the ability to activate different spring rates to introduce a greater range of chassis characteristics, giving drivers the choice between a high level of comfort and very sporting driving dynamics.

The combination of the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) Plus ensures the Turbo S features the most advanced version of the Panamera chassis as standard. The PDCC restricts the rolling movement of the car on its longitudinal axis by applying a counter torque using active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles. This system also improves vehicle stability via dynamic roll moment distribution, resulting in excellent agility in every speed range as well as optimum steering performance and balanced load alteration behaviour. Increased responsiveness is achieved because the tyres constantly maintain the ideal position on the road, allowing optimised lateral forces to build up and act upon each tyre. Variable roll moment distribution also directly influences the vehicle's self-steering properties.

The PDCC, PASM and air suspension are always controlled together when one of the three chassis programmes is selected. When the ‘Comfort’ setting is selected, the systems provide a relaxed journey on uneven roads. In ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’ mode, active intervention by the systems influence steering behaviour, maximum roll support, self-steering properties and traction in order to secure maximum performance and agility.

PTV Plus for even better cornering: Race-tested ceramic brakes

The advantages offered by PDCC in terms of driving dynamics are further enhanced by the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus system and the electronically-controlled rear limited slip differential with variable locking effect. This in turn optimises steering behaviour and traction when cornering.

The Turbo S is also equipped with Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) as standard. These powerful, race-tested ceramic brakes with distinctive yellow brake calipers offer clear advantages over conventional grey cast iron brake discs. A reduction in mass of approximately 50 per cent contributes towards a faster handling response, and the corrosion resistance of the brake caliper rings guarantee maximum performance.

Interior: Two-tone-leather interior and comfort seats

The synthesis between exclusivity and sporting intent is maintained inside by the standard two-tone leather trim. One highlight is the new interior package in Dark Burl Walnut. The new decor includes a hint of red, providing a slightly cooler effect, and the ambience is completed by the embossed Porsche crests on the front headrests.

The 14-way adjustable powered front seats can be combined with the memory package for excellent travel comfort. The memory package comprises seat surface extension as well as lumbar support and electrical steering column adjustment. Both the front and rear seats feature seat heating as standard. At the rear, two single seats with a folding central arm rest offer generous leg and head room, even for tall passengers.

Panamera Turbo S in the UK

The new Panamera Turbo S is available to order now from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland, priced from £131,049.First right-hand drive deliveries will arrive in January 2014.

The Panamera Turbo S offers a compelling mix of sporting and luxurious equipment levels. Standard features include Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with adaptive air suspension, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) Plus, 20-inch diameter alloy wheels, full leather interior, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) satellite navigation system, DAB digital radio with Bose Surround Sound, Bluetooth telephone module with cordless handset, front and rear seat heating, rear passenger side airbags, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity,  and a three year warranty.

Fitted to every Panamera Turbo S is a two year Porsche Car Connect contract incorporating the Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5.

Furthermore, customers are also able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 ‘Disco Volante’, Touring Superleggera, a stunningly beautiful car

To mark the 60th birthday of the legendary Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 ‘Disco Volante’, Touring Superleggera, a prestigious Milanese coachbuilding firm which has been designing and building vehicle bodywork since 1926, has created the 2013 edition of the Disco Volante with the official endorsement of Alfa Romeo.

The Disco Volante is a two-seater Gran Turismo with a completely bespoke, hand-made carbon fibre and aluminium body underpinned by the stunning Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione coupé with its front-central mounted 4.7-litre V8 engine and transaxle rear drive with unmodified specifications.

With the Touring Superleggera treatment the Alfa Disco Volante reaches a top speed of 180mph and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.2 seconds.

Ultra-exclusive, the Alfa Romeo Disco Volante is a very limited production vehicle built only to demand with each model requiring 4,000 hours of painstaking craftsmanship to complete.

ALFA ROMEO DISCO VOLANTE: IN DETAIL

THE LEGEND

When it was revealed in 1952, the lightweight and ultra-aerodynamic Alfa Romeo C52 'Disco Volante' was considered a design icon almost right from the start. The unique basic design was even registered as ‘design patent’.

Based on the Alfa Romeo 1900 C, the car received a new tubular chassis and a lightweight, striking and aerodynamically-efficient aluminium body. The briefing at Carrozzeria Touring mentioned the need for a shape that was ‘insensitive to wind’.

Initially aimed at sports car racing, the C52 Disco Volante is one of the best illustrations of the credo of Touring’s founder Felice Bianchi Anderloni “Il peso è il nemico, la resistenza dell'aria è l'ostacolo" (Weight is the enemy, air resistance the obstacle).

DESIGN

The Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring celebrates the myth of the 1952 style icon. The new design blends innovation, emotion and aerodynamic properties into a timeless and essential shape.

While some elements are inspired by the original dramatic form and proportions, the new body also quite futuristic with its unusually wide front wings covering the wheels, and the thin rear end encapsulated in powerful shoulders.

Inside, the 2013 Disco Volante continues the car’s design philosophy with a ‘science fiction’ feel including red LED interior light profiles. Aeronautical-inspired touches also feature on the dashboard, instruments and controls as exemplified by the seat adjustment lever.

The bespoke leather hides for the upholstery were manufactured to match the exterior body shade and these are matched with black AlcantaraTM. Naturally, buyers can personalise the interior design to meet their preferences.

DYNAMICS

The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione chassis forms the basis for the coach-built bodywork of the Disco Volante, integrally conserving the rolling chassis and drive train.

Chosen for its light and rigid structure and outstanding dynamic properties, the Alfa 8C’s steel space-frame and other structural elements were retained to guarantee torsional stiffness, high performance and the highest possible quality standards.

The frame members and the central carbon cell remained unchanged. Elements of the underpinning and the body, such as the engine bay and firewall, the windscreen and cowl, the A-pillar and the locks and hinges have been retained too, along with the dashboard, instruments, pedals and steering wheel. Certain parts, such as the doorframes, roof frame and C-pillar have been modified to match with the new shape.

The front-central mounted engine, transaxle transmission and rear-wheel drive layout offers optimal weight distribution of 49:51 front to rear. To ensure excellent handling the front and rear double-wishbone suspension is combined with forged aluminium hub carriers and additional trailing arms for the rear suspension.

The lightweight and compact 4.7 litre V8 engine delivers 450HP and 480Nm peak torque and is coupled with a six-speed, sequential transaxle gearbox with electronic control and paddle-shift gear selection. Together with a limited-slip differential and a state-of-the-art braking system with large diameter, ventilated discs, a precise, dynamic and exciting drive is assured.

ENGINEERING

All new and modified components of the Disco Volante have been CAD designed, using the most advanced IT tools and simulation techniques to cover feasibility, safety, homologation, aerodynamics and structural analysis.

To ensure torsional stiffness and noise reduction, special attention was paid to the under-body structure and its elements, such as the tubular frames supporting the rear wings and bumper, and the roll bar joining the C-pillars. Other complex design issues include the tailgate hinges, the 3D-cambered door window, and the front wheel covers.

A CFD aerodynamic study enhanced the airflow and ensured optimal downforce in the rear section. FEM calculations were then run to assess resistance and rigidity of all parts subject to homologation.

PRODUCTION

To ensure lightweight bodywork for the Disco Volante, a combination of aluminium and carbon fibre was used for the optimal balance of weight, resistance, precision, finish and quality, as well as ease of repair in case of damage.

The carbon fibre is used for specific components like the front bumper and grille, the bonnet, the side skirts, the boot lid and the integrated rear-window frame. The bonnet and boot lid are sandwich-built with Nomex filler to obtain a superior stiffness/weight ratio and to dampen vibration and noise.

The aluminium panels are hand-formed using an epoxy mould. Since the inner frames of most parts of the bodywork are made of carbon fibre, this requires the gluing of aluminium to carbon fibre. This technique adds to the rigidity as the glue itself also possesses structural properties.

The body panels are pre-assembled on a laser measurement platform using a jig. This ensures that the strict tolerance required is respected. After adjustment, the panels are either welded or glued. The body-in-white is then used to preassemble and fit all trim components, brightware and moulding.

To ensure constant and repeatable quality, the entire production process is documented and digitally logged. Like in series production, there is a quantified manufacturing cycle and a Bill of Materials. Tolerances, measurements and other quality standards are all quantified.

QUALITY ASSURANCE

The quality control process includes static as well as dynamic test runs before the car is signed off. The static-test protocol requires compliance to high standards in interstice and surface alignment, paint and coating quality, interior trim and assembly.

A functionality test is run in a climatic chamber. The dynamic test takes place on the proving ground and includes high-speed runs, cornering and other handling tests on several types of surfaces. Beside routine checks for creaks, rattles or other noise, it concentrates on handling, braking and all other functionalities.

TYPE APPROVAL

The Disco Volante has received EU type-approval under the EU-Directive 2007/46 EC for small series.

PRICES & AVAILABILITY

The price of the Disco Volante is on demand and all sales enquiries can be addressed to the factory in Milan.

Touring Superleggera delivers the complete car in six months after the Alfa Romeo 8C is made available.

All Touring-produced or modified parts have a two-yea, unlimited-mileage warranty, subject to the usual industry terms. Alfa Romeo dealers are qualified for maintenance and service of the technical components, while Touring supplies them repair instructions and parts for the Touring-designed components and systems.

TECHNICAL DATA

PERFORMANCE
Top speed (est) 292kph / 181mph
Acceleration (est) 0-100kph (0-62mph) in 4.2seconds
 
DIMENSIONS
Length 4,620mm
Width   2,032mm
Height 1,309mm
Wheelbase 2,640mm
Track front/back   1,591mm/1,589mm
Boot volume   142-litres
Fuel tank capacity 88-litres
 
ENGINE
Cylinders / type 8 / V  90°
Cubic capacity 4,691cm³
Nominal output 331kw/450HP@7,000rpm
Max torque 480Nm@4750rpm
Emission level Euro 5
 
ECONOMY
Urban 23.6l/100km (12mpg)    
Extra-Urban   11.4l/100km (24.8mpg)  
Combined   15.8l/100km (17.9mpg)  
CO2 emissions 377g/km (combined)
 
DRIVELINE
Rear wheel drive
6-speed, electroactuated sequential gearbox with paddle-shift control and automatic mode
Limited slip differential
 
WHEELS
Tyres Pirelli PZero Rosso, front 245/35 ZR20, rear 285/35 ZR20
Wheel type   Aluminium forged wheels