The 992 Porsche 911 Carrera represents the next step in the evolution of this iconic legendary sports car. To many in the automotive world the Porsche 911 has for the last 50 years represented a benchmark for what the sports car of its day should be. Now in its 8th generation, still defiantly rear-engined and unmistakably Germanic, what makes the new 992 different? Firstly, the exterior styling has been significantly modernised, from the streamlined auto-deploying door handles to the brake light included in the rear engine grille, everything has been meticulously thought through.

The Cabriolet variant of the 992 Carrera is no exception to the thoroughly thought out changes employed by Porsche. The roof retracts in just 12 seconds by virtue of the new and improved hydraulic motor, which now operates in a much quicker and quieter manner. The whole process then becomes less of a waiting game and more of an appreciation of the engine sound that suddenly fills and dramatises the cabin. You are then immediately reminded of the two super responsive turbos and the unique tone of the Porsche 3.0L flat-six. Improvements don’t just stop there for Porsche. The roof lining has been redesigned which now incorporates a sound insulating layer that reduces wind noise at higher speeds. In an additional effort to increase cabin comfort, an automatic wind deflector is deployed when the roof is down to reduce any ‘buffeting’ effect.

Being the Cabriolet model the new 992 still retains its sharp looks despite the 10mm raise at the rear where the roof is stored. Space is by no means sacrificed as boot storage is on par with the coupes, as are the rear seats. Tweaks and adjustments to just about every component of the steering, suspension and car calibration have rendered a car which feels more planted, sure footed and capable than ever before. The 4S model which features the four-wheel drive system takes the driving dynamics of the 992 Cabriolet to the next level. With a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds, the 992 Cabriolet is certainly no slouch with the slight extra weight added by the retractable roof. Everything from the brakes to the power delivery feels somehow more cohesive and together, in ways you didn’t realise were lacking. Overall, the new 992 picks up exactly where it left off, evolving the 911 further yet again. It now includes more features as standard and pushes the envelope for how much performance and sheer driving pleasure can be extracted from four wheels.