Targa 911 shows us its glass!

It's the 911's glassiest act yet! Auto Express is the first magazine to reveal the look of the all-new Porsche Targa, due on sale early next year.

Auto Express Car Reviews

Targa looks great and will handle better than ever

By Dan Strong

06th June 2006

Our exclusive pictures were taken as the model was prepared for its first official photoshoot. Set to replace the current machine, the newcomer will keep the original's panoramic glass. The see-through top can be slid open in warm weather, leaving a gap that is twice the size of the standard sunroof to give drivers and passengers a near-uninterrupted view of the sky.

As our spyshots reveal, the only parts of the roof which are metal are those panels which run over the top of the windows. These preserve the car's classic teardrop silhouette.

Set to rival the likes of the Mercedes SL, and designed to offer a novel alternative to its well established 911 Cabriolet stablemate, the Targa is the only glass-roofed coupé which is currently in production.

Unlike previous editions of the machine, two versions will be offered: a basic 325bhp 3.6-litre variant and a sporty 355bhp S model with a bigger 3.8 engine. For the first time, the 911 Targa will be available with the German manufacturer's unique active suspension system, which boasts both sport and comfort modes, as well as ceramic brakes. The Stuttgart firm has yet to officially announce exact performance figures, but it is promising to address criticisms of the original car's handling and chassis.

Our sources claim that the model will handle better and feel much stronger, thanks to improved suspension and tougher, lighter glass in the roof.

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