Porsche has taken an important step towards the next gen 911 models with the new, refined Targa. Keeping a simple basic structure, yet giving a futuristic approach to the 45-year-old car line, Porsche completed the fasted generation change ever seen in its 911 series.

As everyone expected, the latest 911 model comes in two variants, the 911 Targa 4 and the 911 Targa 4S, combining performance and economy with visual impact and latest technological achievements.

The two models come with the fast-shifting Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) or double-clutch gearbox which replaces the Tiptronic S automatic transmission, and with an electronically controlled PTM Porsche Traction Management, which takes the place of the former all-wheel drive.

The double-clutch gearbox has no less than seven gears, offering an alternative to the classical manual six-speed gearbox. Porsche said its PDK excels through its unparalleled speed in shifting gears, combined with superior fuel economy all round.

The basic version of the 911 Targa is powered by a 3.6-litre H6 delivering 345 bhp (254 kW), offering top speeds of 176 mph or 284 km/h. As for the Targa 4S, it displaces 3.8-litres, offering a maximum output of 385 bph or 283 kW and top speeds of 184 mph or 297 km/h.

The transmission allows Targa to reach 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, or 4.9 seconds for the 4S model, with the manual six-speed gearbox. The optional PDK is even faster, making the standard 3.6-litre Targa 4 to reach 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, while the 4S can do it in less, 4.7 seconds.

The electronically controlled PTM Porsche Traction Management system brings the highest standards of driving stability, traction and agile handling, Porsche said, adding that the PTM feeds the right share of engine power and traction additionally to the front wheels in every driving situation, with the help of its electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch.

The direct fuel injection increases engine power by 8.5 percent, while at the same time it reduces fuel consumption by 11.2 percent and decreases Co2 emissions by 13.2 percent, depending on the model and specific features.

The German automaker based its new models on the visual concept of a 1.54-square-meter glass roof that comes with two segments: a sliding front section which takes seven seconds to open, leaving a space of 0.45 square meters above the passenger’s head, and a practical tailgate.

The sliding roof glass was especially designed to offer UV and heat protection, as both the glass and the tailgate come in special anti-sunglare glass. The sliding roof also comes as a standard with a new sunblind capable of covering the entire area of the sliding roof and opening/closing independently of the roof.

The new 911 Targa models are an inspiring combination of old and new, combining a classical design with the latest technology. The Porsche Communication Management 3.0 system comes with a touch screen audio and navigational panel, which supports Bluetooth connectivity, iPod port, USB port and XM satellite radio.

What makes car lovers fall for this Porsche is the amazing design that has been following the same classical line for decades, and the Porsche quality. The 2009 Targa 4 and Targa 4S will be available across the U.S. this fall, with base prices of $89,500 for the Targa 4 and $100,100 for the Targa 4S.