MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO – Porsche is introducing the new 911 Targa — two new Targa models will join the manufacturer’s brethren, the new generation Carrera coupes and cabriolets that have been introduced in the past two months. The new 911 models will be available at Porsche dealerships in Canada starting in September of this year, according to www.businesswire.com.

The most striking visual highlight of the 911 Targa is its 16.58 square-foot glass roof made up of two segments — a sliding roof at the front and a more practical tailgate at the rear. The roof slides beneath the tailgate within seven seconds, offering almost five square feet of open space above the passenger cabin when opened completely. The sliding roof comes standard with a new sunblind. When closed, the sunblind covers the entire area of the sliding roof, opening and closing electrically independently of the roof itself. The glass roof and tailgate are made of special tinted glass, which protects the occupants from UV radiation and excessive heat even in bright sunshine.

The focal point of the Targa’s interior is the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 3.0, which features a touchscreen for simplified operation of the audio system as well as the optional hard-disk-drive navigation system. Other important additions to PCM 3.0 are the new options of XM satellite radio with XM NavTraffic capability, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod port, USB port, and auxiliary jack.

Technological highlights of the 2009 Targa include two new engines, with direct fuel injection to improve both performance and fuel economy; the PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, or double-clutch gearbox, replacing the optional Tiptronic S automatic transmission; and the electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which takes the place of the former all-wheel-drive system.

As before, the latest addition to the new generation of the 911 will come in two variants: the 911 Targa 4 and the 911 Targa 4S. The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a new 3.6L flat-six engine, developing a maximum output of 345 horsepower for a top track speed of 176 mph. The 3.8L 911 Targa 4S engine delivers a maximum output of 385 horsepower that accelerates this exclusive sports car to a top track speed of 184 mph.

Like the previously announced 911 Carrera and Carrera 4 models, direct fuel injection technology continues to be a central point of the efficiency enhancements in the 2009 Targa. Direct fuel injection increases engine power, while simultaneously contributing to a reduction in fuel consumption.

The 2009 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S will be available in Canada in October at a MSRP of $111,600 and $124,500, respectively.