2009 Porsche 911: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big 2009 change is the 997.2 mid-cycle update for the Carrera and Targa models, led by new direct-injection engines and refreshed styling. The Turbo and GT2 remain much closer to their 2008 versions.
About the 2009 Porsche 911
997 generation, facelift year for the Carrera/Carrera 4 and Targa ranges (first year of the 997.2 update); Turbo and GT2 still use the earlier 997 turbocharged hardware this year.
For most buyers, the 2009 911 is the classic rear-engine sports car that still works in everyday life. Porsche sells it as a real sports car first, but one with 2+2 seating, useful front luggage space, strong road manners, and a wide spread of personalities from pure rear-drive Carrera to all-weather Carrera 4 and glass-roof Targa. What sets it apart is the familiar 911 shape, rear-engine traction, sharp steering feel, and a lineup that moves from usable daily sports car to serious high-performance machine without losing the same core character.
The Carrera is the straightforward rear-wheel-drive starting point, while the Carrera S adds a stronger 3.8-liter engine, adaptive suspension, and 19-inch wheels. Carrera 4 models add all-wheel drive, and the Targa 4 and 4S pair all-wheel drive with a sliding glass roof and opening rear hatch. The 480-hp Turbo focuses on all-weather speed and everyday comfort, while the 530-hp, rear-wheel-drive GT2 is the more track-focused, manual-only model.
What changed, by category
2009 Porsche 911 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.6 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.6L | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.8 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.8 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | RWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 15–16 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23–24 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 530 hp | 480 hp | 345 hp | 345 hp | 385 hp | 345 hp | 385 hp | 385 hp |
| Torque | 501 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft | 288 lb-ft | 288 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 288 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 3.3 cu-ft | 4.4 cu-ft | 3.7 cu-ft | 3.7 cu-ft | 3.7 cu-ft | 4.4 cu-ft | 3.7 cu-ft | |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | ||||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||||||
| Leather Interior Trim | ||||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest difference between the 2008 and 2009 Porsche 911?
The biggest difference is the 997.2 update applied to the 2009 Carrera and Targa models. It brought direct-injection engines, revised front and rear styling, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillamps.
Which 2009 Porsche 911 models received the 997.2 update?
The Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Targa 4, and Targa 4S received the 997.2 update for 2009. The Turbo and GT2 stayed closer to the earlier 997.1 formula.
Did the 2009 Porsche 911 Turbo and GT2 get the same update as the Carrera?
No. The 2009 Turbo and GT2 retained the earlier turbocharged 997 hardware, while the Carrera and Targa ranges received the direct-injection engines and refreshed exterior design.
What is different about the 2009 Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S?
Both 2009 Targa models combine all-wheel drive with a large sliding glass roof and an opening glass rear hatch. The Targa 4 uses a 3.6-liter engine, while the Targa 4S has a stronger 3.8-liter engine, adaptive suspension, a lower ride height, and 19-inch wheels.
Is the 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S all-wheel drive?
No. The 2009 Carrera S is rear-wheel drive. The Carrera 4S pairs the stronger 3.8-liter engine with all-wheel drive and a wider rear body.