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Porsche 911 GT3 RS getting all-new atmospheric engine

Porsche surprised many of its most puritanical enthusiasts when it took a decidedly more usable approach with the current 911 GT3. But when the new GT3 RS debuts, it promises to be a much more extreme departure. And a big part of that comes down to the engine. At the Detroit Auto Show this week, Auto Express spoke with Porsche R&D chief Wolfgang Hatz – who also happens to be head of engine and transmission development for the entire Volkswagen group. Hatz revealed that Porsche has developed a completely new engine for the GT3 RS, and while previous rumors suggested the RS would go turbo to fill in for the lack of a GT2 (and make the most out of its displacement), Hatz confirmed that it will be naturally aspirated. Considering that Porsche rarely goes downwards when it comes to 911 engine displacement, only upwards, we'd expect the new RS to pick up where the previous 4.0 left off. The new GT3 RS is also expected to pack a more extreme suspension, aero and stripped-out interior, but those hoping for an old-school approach may be disappointed to learn that the new RS will (at least at launch) only be available with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission – though a manual version could follow if there's enough demand. In a related development, Hatz also hinted that the Cayman GT4 could debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with an even more extreme approach than the previous Cayman R. The new top-of-the-line Cayman is reportedly being developed to comply with GT4 class racing regulations but be fully homologated for road use. Related Video:

Porsche Cayman GT4 storms Switzerland with 385 hp [w/video]

Much as we love the Porsche 911 in all its variants, there's definitely a case to be made for the smaller Cayman as the best-driving sports car in the company's lineup. We adore it in all forms, and most recently fell madly in love with the new Cayman GTS. But here at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, Porsche has unveiled a truly special, range-topping variant of its mid-engine coupe: the GT4. And after seeing it in person, we're pretty much head-over-heels in love. That's because the GT4 is the most hardcore variant of the Cayman yet, using a 385-horsepower version of Porsche's 3.8-liter flat-six, derived from the 911 Carrera S. It sends power to the rear wheels solely via a six-speed manual transmission with dynamic gearbox mounts, and we're told the hot new coupe will sprint to 60 miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds – a full half-second quicker than the 340-hp Cayman GTS. Building upon that, the GT4 uses a host of chassis components from the potent 911 GT3, and offers further upgrades like ceramic brakes and carbon fiber bucket seats. This should make for one seriously track-worthy machine, and Porsche already says that the GT4 will run the Nurburgring in a scant 7:20 – the same time as the 2011 911 GT3. It's all very awesome, this GT4. To say we're stoked would be a gross understatement. Look for it to hit Porsche dealers in July, starting at $84,600. This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. A New Member of Porsche's GT Family The benchmark in its class: the Porsche Cayman GT4 Atlanta, Feb. 3, 2015 - Porsche's GT family is proud to announce the addition of an exciting new member: the Cayman GT4. This is the first Porsche GT sports car based on the Cayman and features components of the 911 GT3. Clocking a lap time of 7 minutes and 40 seconds on the North Loop of the Nurburgring, the Cayman GT4 earns the same lap time as the 2011 911 GT3 and positions itself as the new benchmark atop its market segment. The Cayman GT4 clearly demonstrates Porsche's dedication and passion to continue to promote truly industry-leading two-door sports cars in the future – sports cars that are developed at the Motorsport department in Weissach. The engine, chassis, brakes, and aerodynamic design of the Cayman GT4 are configured for maximum driving dynamics while retaining the versatility and everyday utility that are typical of the two-seater Porsche coupe.

Porsche calls in The Committee for Boxster and Cayman GTS

Porsche is set to offer up the very first GTS variants of its more affordable Boxster convertibles and Cayman coupes. This is very good news for enthusiasts. Aside from our original post announcing the hotted up models, though, Porsche hasn't given us much to go on.
And you know what? This video isn't much of help either. It's called The Committee, and we're guessing it's meant to highlight the lengths that Porsche went to in designing what are essentially sportier trim levels for its two most affordable entries. Still, it's a stylized and entertaining video with a few entertaining driving scenes scattered throughout, and it gives just a small glimpse of Porsche's view of the vaunted GTS badge.
Take a look below for the full video.