Porsche enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike have reason to be excited as Porsche works on a refresh for its iconic 911 family. Spy shots have surfaced, hinting at possible changes to some of the 911 versions. What has caught our attention is a prototype that appears to be the 911 GTS, identifiable by the prominent rear wing and the absence of center-locking wheels and rear side air intakes. This prototype, with minimal camouflage, provides a tantalizing glimpse of the design modifications expected with the facelift.
Barely Camouflaged
While it’s not the first time we’ve seen lightly disguised 911 prototypes, this one sports minimal camouflage, limited to black tape on the headlights. The light units themselves won’t undergo a complete transformation, but previous spy photos have hinted at changes to the internal structure to incorporate new amber turn signals. Notably, the most prominent design tweaks at the front are the shift to vertical slats for the grille and a slightly altered bumper shape. The center section of the grille also appears more extensive than before.
A Rear End Reveal
The rear of the prototype is similarly free of extensive camouflage. It reveals a setup consistent with previous spy photos, featuring exhaust tips positioned closer to each other at the center and a subtly redesigned lower section of the bumper. It’s worth noting that the 911 GTS has been spotted with both a fixed wing, as seen on this prototype, and a retractable spoiler. Porsche seems to be evaluating various aerodynamic components for this facelift.
The Electrification Question
This prototype, unlike a previously seen GTS test car, does not feature a yellow sticker on the rear window. This suggests it is not a hybrid model. In a recent interview with Frank Moser, Vice President of Model Lines 911 and 718 at Porsche, it appears likely that the 911 GTS 992.2 won’t be electrified. While the 911 family is slated to receive electric support, it’s not expected until the mid-2020s, likely arriving first on hotter derivatives.
Porsche’s Timeline
As for Porsche’s timeline, the 911 facelift is anticipated to be unveiled in base form before the end of this calendar year. While it’s speculative, it’s conceivable that the GTS version might follow a few months later, likely around the middle of 2024. As for the first electrified 911 in Porsche’s history, enthusiasts will need to wait until 2025 for its debut.
