VIDEO: 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera

Porsche's preeminent sports coupe has emerged for 2009 with a new repertoire of technological innovation.

In addition to a raft of subtle aesthetic changes, the big news for 2009 is the introduction of the Porsche Doppel Kupplung , the company's first dual-clutch automated manual transmission. Featuring seven forward speeds and shift times comparable to similar offerings from Ferrari and Lamborghini, Porsche has now entered the realm of world beating sports cars that won't beat up their owners with a heavy clutch pedal.

On the all wheel drive Carrera 4S models, the PDK transmission is paired with an all-new electronically controlled center differential which uses clutches instead of a viscous coupling for greater control over power distribution between the front and rear wheels. Under the aegis of Porsche Traction Management, the new system reduces front wheel power during sharp cornering maneuvers, providing additional cornering grip while the integrated stability control keep the rear wheels firmly planted to the asphalt.

Rounding out the drivetrain revisions, direct fuel injection also makes its debut with the 2009 Carrera range. resulting in more power and improved fuel economy. For the Carrera and Carrera 4, output of the 3.6-liter flat-six rises by 20 horsepower to 345 and when paired with the PDK transmission, EPA combined fuel economy rises from 20 to 23.3 miles per gallon. On the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4S, its 3.8 liter flat-six gains 30 additional horsepower for a total of 385; EPA combined fuel economy also rises from 19 to 22 miles per gallon.

Viewed in total, the new 911 Carrera presents more than just an incremental evolution in exterior design. Instead, Porsche has once again applied new technologies and refined them to embolden the 911's future.

In keeping with tradition, we've included a clip from Porsche's latest promotional video.
Enjoy.