Next Porsche 911 To Be Wider But Not Mid-Engined

Although we're yet to see Porsche's #facelifted 911 range completed, the German brand is already hard at work on the next-generation model, expected to launch in late 2018 or 2019.

Car and Driver reports that despite the new 911 RSR race car adopting a mid-engined layout, the new 911 will retain its rear-engined setup, as expected. However, there's a possibility that the engine may be nudged forward slightly in an effort to improve balance and weight distribution.

It is thought that the main reason for the next-gen 911's inclusion of a rear-mounted engine is that at its heart, the 911 remains a practical road car with small seats at the rear. Unlike mid-engined rivals like those from Ferrari and McLaren, select 911 variants can carry four people, if only just.

Although no major changes are expected in the configuration of the model's engine, it is reported that the new 911 will grow in width once again, particularly at the front. As one would expect, rear-wheel drive will continue to come as standard while all-wheel drive will also be available for some models.

Enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that despite the 718 Cayman and Boxster twins adopting turbocharged four-cylinder engines, the next 911 will continue to feature turbo'd flat-six engines, updated over the current range.

A plug-in hybrid variant of the model is also all but confirmed and will offer up a range of approximately 30 miles on electric power.