Porsche has released the first images of its 911 Carrera Cabriolet ahead of its debut at next year’s North American International Auto Show (January 9-22).

The convertible edition of the 911 Carrera uses a new roof mechanism considerably lighter than predecessors thanks to the use of magnesium in the hood frame.

The mechanism also uses two lightweight fabric-covered plastic panels which should make it stronger and more resistant to wind buffeting at high speeds.

Porsche has confirmed that it is to stage the world premiere of a new model at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The German automaker will put the spotlight on a new model “boasting impressive performance and dynamic looks, exuding unadulterated driving pleasure.”

Many bloggers and fans predict that the model could be a Cabriolet version of the Porsche 911, which has been seen testing recently.

Porsche has officially revealed the new generation of the 911 family of sports coupes that will be launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Described as a “completely new generation” of the iconic coupe (which first hit the road in 1963), the new Carrera features a 100mm longer wheelbase for improved stability and a heightened presence, with a lower roofline and wider frontage.

A new lightweight body, formed from aluminium-steel composite, makes the model up to 45 kg lighter than its predecessor, while a wider spoiler reduces lift to keep the car handling properly.

Porsche is celebrating 60 Years in America, introducing “My Classic Porsche Search” a search for the oldest Porsche in the country.

The search is open to all Porsche owners who think they have a shot at earning the “oldest” designation for their car.

Entries can be submitted for 12 model ranges, including the Porsche 356, 911, 912, 914, 924, 928, 944, 968, Boxster, Cayenne, Carrera GT, and Cayman.

Following the recent refresh of the rear-wheel-drive Porsche Carrera and Carrera S, Porsche has announced a refresh for both the coupe and Cabriolet models of the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S, as well, and now we’ve got the details :

Just like the standard 911s, the C4s features direct injection engines for a bump in power and fuel economy along with a drop in emissions.
In these new models, the all-wheel drive is now provided by an electronically-controlled Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system, which replaces the former all-wheel drive with its viscous multiple-plate clutch.
For 2009, the base Carrera’s 3.6-liter flat-six engine is tuned to produce 345 horsepower, an increase of 20 horses, and the 3.8-liter unit in the Carrera S jumps from 355 to 385 hp. Both engines are now direct-injection, and either can be coupled to a six-speed manual transmission or Porsche’s PDK seven-speed, double-clutch gearbox.

All C4 models can be distinguished from standard 911s thanks to wider rear fenders (by about 1.75 inches), a red reflector joining the rear LED brake lights, and LED daytime running lights up front as well as standard bi-xenon headlights.

Inside, the updated range adds the new Porsche Communication Management 3.0 (PCM) which features a touchscreen for simplified operation of the audio system as well as the optional hard-disk-drive navigation system, with integrated Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity.

The C4 models will start arriving at European dealerships at the end of October. The 911 Carrera 4 Coupe is priced at $81,700, while both the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet and 911 Carrera 4S Coupe are $92,300. The 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet is $102,900.