Very much an evolution of the current 991 that received a mid-life update three years ago, the 992’s subtle differences consists of a new front bumper and grille, redesigned bootlid and at the rear, where the changes are most prominent, a Panamera styled wraparound taillight setup with a thin strip of LEDs running the entire length of the rear apron.
According to the report by Auto Express, the 992 will retain staple 911 models such as the Turbo, GT2, GT3 and GTS above the regular two-and-four-wheel drive Carreras, but for the first time, offer the option of a plug-in hybrid that is expected to use the same 250kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged flat-six as the Cayenne E-Hybrid, albeit connected to a 100kW electric motor for a total system output of 340kW/700Nm.
Despite a projected top speed of 290km/h and 0-100km/h in under four seconds, the publication claims that the addition of the hybrid system could add as much as 250kg to the model’s kerb weight versus the standard 911, but that an even more powerful derivative could be introduced to offset the weight gain.
If indeed so, expect this variant to come powered by the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid’s mill, which pairs a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 with an electric motor for a combined output of 500kW/850Nm. At present though, this is purely speculative.
Like the 991, the 992 will come with a seven-speed PDK gearbox as standard on most models, although some will still offer the option of the similarly ratioed manual.
Expect more details to be revealed in the coming weeks and months leading up to its LA unveiling.
