Story | William Ha Photography | Porsche Media, William Ha
It’s been both a milestone and banner year for Porsche.
With the theme “Driven by Dreams” and lots of bright colours headlining the brand’s 75-year celebrations, Porsche Canada pulled out all the stops this year from hosting a series of “Porsche Passion” celebratory events, profiling various leaders within their communities who dream big, to running a summerlong nationwide roadshow for customers to drive their newest vehicles.
One such new vehicle is the refreshed and more powerful 2024 Cayenne mid-size SUV, which continues to dazzle with physics-defying performance while offering SUV comfort and versatility.
SIX DECADES OF 911
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the 911, Porsche’s brand-defining, inimitable sports car that continues to be a dream vehicle for many with its sporting allure, scintillating performance and
iconic shape.
We were reminded of how exceptional the 911 is during our week with a 493-horsepower 911 Carrera 4 GTS. Capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just three seconds using launch control, this model can also be customized with a supernova of available hightech features that include an adaptive suspension (Porsche Active Suspension Management), adaptive anti-roll bars for cornering stability (Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control), rear wheel steering and a front suspension that can raise and lower itself (Front Axle Lift System).
Even though high performance has always been the 911’s calling card, the current generation’s interior is also very comfortable with available features like an 18-way power driver’s seat with heating and cooling, high-quality switchgear and well-designed door panels with useful storage pockets.
Like fine wine, the 911 keeps getting better with age, and we’re optimistic future generations will be even more exciting.
ELECTRIC POWER PLAY
Long, low and wide with recognizable Porsche styling DNA, the four-door Taycan also became an instant icon because Porsche successfully engineered its first production EV to launch, handle and brake like a true sports car despite all the inherent challenges a heavy, complex EV architecture presents.
The Taycan GTS we test drove represents the best balance of highperformance and technology. Its drivetrain offers up to 590 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque using launch control. There are cargo compartments in the front and rear, along with split-folding rear seats, so the Taycan is as versatile as it is luxurious, high-tech and striking in design. Endless customization options are available to buyers, and it is also supremely comfortable as a highway cruiser. You can get just over 400 kilometres of driving range on a full charge in summer weather.
The Taycan soldiers on into 2024 with a broad model range and three body styles. Shoppers who want even more power will like the range-topping Taycan Turbo S, which is offered in both sedan and wagon body style called the Cross Turismo. Both serve up a maximum of 750 horsepower and 774 lb-ft of torque with launch control.
PORSCHE MISSION X
The Mission X concept hypercar was unveiled earlier this summer as part of the 75-year festivities to represent Porsche’s take on the future of high performance.
This head-turning machine is a road-legal electric sports car that was purpose-designed to be extremely light, nimble, powerful and able to generate more downforce than even the Porsche 911 GT3 sports car when driven at high speeds.
We don’t yet know the power figures, but would bet the drivetrain will generate well over 1,000 horsepower. If produced, Porsche claims they would make the Mission X the fastest road-legal car to complete a lap on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, an internationally recognized racetrack in Germany that serves as a proving ground for high-performance vehicles.
The battery system will also allow for ultra-fast charging (faster than the Taycan), and is expected to be positioned behind the seats for near-even weight distribution that will support nimble handling.
A BRIGHT, FAST FUTURE
The future remains exciting for Porsche in Canada. It is a brand that sells dream vehicles, yet they invest in staying connected to all car enthusiasts by encouraging their dealers to host public events and make vehicles accessible for photographs. In fact, the first Canadian Porsche Experience Centre is currently being built in Pickering, Ont. (a 45-minute drive northeast of downtown Toronto) and is
expected to be completed next year Porsche is also a perennial leader in dealer service experience in Canada, and owners enjoy the options of purchasing fun driving and travel experiences like track days and vacation packages to various Canadian provinces that include driving on scenic routes. There is even a unique winter driving experience called Porsche Ice Experience, hosted annually in Quebec.
Happy 75 years to Porsche! May the next 75 years be even brighter, faster and more exciting.
