My fave of the day was a screamin’ yellow Carrera S Cabriolet (from $132,200) sporting the seven-speed manual transmission and armed to the teeth with ceramic brakes ($9,730), rear axle steering ($2,390) and a $4,630 package that adds active anti-roll bars and 20mm lower PASM Sports Suspension. With top down and the Sport Exhaust blaring, the cab was absolutely nailed to the road for an evening run up the mountain. The revised clutch and shift action are brilliant – pedals placed just right for heel and toe action.

Of course, the other side of the 2017 911 equation is improved efficiency (up to 12 percent), as all Carreras are equipped lower rolling resistance tires, active grill shutters, auto start/stop and a more aggressive “sailing” function that decouples the engine and has it resting at idle when coasting. The car is more relaxed at speed too, whether you’re tearing up a back road or cruising the motorway. With a smoother ride, longer-legged top gear and available mid-range punch, the 2017 Carrera’s grand touring cred takes a quantum leap.

So, to the verdict. Has Porsche’s push for more civility and economy in the 911 compromised the pure essence of this legendary sports car? Indeed, it’s not as raw or feral, and the throttle response may not be quite as Heinkl sharp. There will be those who argue this is the whole point of the 911. For me, I tip my hat to Porsche. There were no thoughts of compromise as I ran up the mountain road in the bright yellow, and yes, brilliant Carrera S Cab. Welcome to a new era of 911.

Pricing: 2017 Porsche 911
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera: $102,200
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S: $118,200
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet: $116,200
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet: $132,200
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4: $110,100
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S: $126,100
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet: $124,100
2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet: $140,100
2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4: $124,100
2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S: $140,100

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