Autoblog

Following word that Porsche will incorporate direct injection and the 7-speed Doppelkupplung gearbox into the 997 refresh, we've come across an official document that details what we can expect when the latest iteration of the 911 arrives. We're not posting the document itself, but by now a quick Google search will reveal it to you if you're that interested.

The changes coming apply to the 2009 Carrera, Carrera S and their C4 and Targa variants. Look for the 3.6L base engine to get a 20-horse bump to 345 ponies, while Carrera/Targa S models see the 3.8L mill's output jump to a very healthy 385 horsepower. Both engines also get a commensurate increase in torque. The good news is that despite the added muscle, both the 3.6 and 3.8 are expected to consume less fuel and have cleaner emissions numbers.

As we've seen in numerous spy photos, new front and rear bumpers update the fascias. Lighting updates are also on the way, with standard bi-xenon headlights on the base car, plus LED daytime running lamps and LED taillamps across the board. New wheels will hide upgraded brakes, and word is that the Carrera 4 models will get additional cues that visually set them apart from the 2-wheel-drive cars. Inside, a new steering wheel tags along with the Doppelkupplung, and drivers can expect a freshened instrument panel boasting simplified controls and a host of improvements to the multimedia and nav system offerings. All the changes will be officially revealed/confirmed in June. As for when we can expect the skinny on any updates to the Turbo, GT2 and GT3, your guess is as good as ours. Thanks for the tip, Matthew!