With 2012 models hitting dealer’s lots in America, the Porsche brand is setting out to show off its own new car, the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera, at the Frankfurt auto show later this month. In an August 23 press release, Porsche outlines some of the attributes of this new model, including re-designed contours, a longer wheelbase, and a lighter body utilizing an aluminum steel composite. The company is citing a 100 pound weight reduction from last year’s Porsche 911 Carrera. Front and rear lift have been almost completely eliminated on this model, which retains a lot of the dramatic styling of the 2011 model while adding some new and improved style changes.

Photos of the new interior show a modish console and luxurious interior, with familiar landmarks, like Porsche’s signature instrument cluster in the dash.

As for performance, Porsche is claiming this new model can go from 0 to 60 in just over 4 seconds. Porsche says the 2012 base model will carry a 3.4 liter boxer engine throwing 350 horsepower, while the 911 Carrera S model will get a 3.8 liter block delivering 400 HP. This road-pounding power, along with incredible top speeds, makes the Porsche 911 a car for the lead foot, the racing fan or anyone else with a need for speed. The 2012 model adds more of what fans love about this classic car that has had good staying power through the years.
As for fuel economy, Porsche seems to be staying relatively mum. A new review from U.S. News & World Report shows that while the company is not mentioning EPA estimates for this car, it is referencing a significant decrease in fuel consumption from the last generation Porsche 911. In its list of engineering changes for lower fuel consumption, Porsche includes thermal management for the engine and transmission, a new power steering setup, and a transmission mode allowing drivers to coast.

Look for more on the Porsche 911 and other similar models as 2012 gets underway. Porsche is giving a starting MSRP for around $82,000 for this car, which is a modest increase from 2011. Look for the latest in pricing and financing offers from the company when you go to negotiate a final transaction price for one of these high-performance luxury cars.