A 3.0-liter, twin-turbo Boxer engine delivers 473 horsepower and propels the 911 Dakar from zero to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds.
It rides 50 millimeters higher than the 911 Carrera. The standard lift system, designed to help clear obstacles at low speeds, can raise the car by an additional 30 millimeters — achieving ride height and ramp-over angles similar to conventional crossovers, Porsche said.
Rear-axle steering, engine mounts adopted from the 911 GT3 and a body roll-reducing system enable the Dakar to tackle sand and loose gravel.
Two drive modes — Rallye Mode and Off-Road Mode — offer off-road performance. Rallye Mode helps on uneven surfaces and biases power to the rear axle. Off-Road Mode maximizes traction on sand and in rough terrain.
Rallye Launch Control, developed for this model, allows wheel spin of up to 20 percent.
The Dakar weighs 3,552 pounds and is designed for the outdoors. It features a fixed rear spoiler and a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic hood with large openings designed to extract air.
Red front and rear tow hooks made of forged aluminum, flared fender arches and rocker panels add to the off-road appearance, as do stainless steel body elements on the front and rear fascia and side skirts. The side air intakes in the front fascia have stainless steel mesh grilles to keep out rocks and other debris.
A 12-volt socket delivers power for the headlights of the optional roof basket that can hold 92 pounds of water canisters, shovels and other camping gear. A roof tent is available.
