Porsche 911 Coupé (04 on) - Review

It may offer serious performance but the 911 isn't an uncompromising car. In fact (aside from the hardcore GT3 RS model) it's easy to drive everyday with a composed and forgiving ride. Rear visibility is pretty good too (compared to similarly expensive high performance cars) and thanks to well-weighted steering, driving the 911 in town is simple. There's plenty of room for the two front passengers and the standards seats are supportive and comfortable. Optional sports seats can be chosen which pin you in even more, but even these are relatively easy to live with. There are two seats in the back, but they're only really useable as extra luggage room.

Versatility isn't usually a strength you'd associate with a sportscar, but the 911 actually has a reasonably sized front boot. It's pretty deep too and with 135 litres can carry a reasonable amount (Carrera 4, Turbo and GT models have 30 litres less though). There's decent stowage in the front including lidded door pockets which double as armrests and even two clever cupholders which are concealed behind a strip above the glovebox.

The interior of the 911 is similar to the Cayman and Boxster. It's superbly built and finished with top-class materials and soft-touch plastics throughout. It may not be the most exciting of cabins, but it has an understated sophistication and a purposeful feel. The driving position is as perfect as they come - low slung with plenty of adjustment in both the seat and steering column. It means the 911 is comfortable and easy to live with day to day. The deep set dials and short gear lever add to the high performance feel, but the air con and stereo controls can be a little fiddly. Revised models from 2008 come with a new centre console and touch screen sat nav unit (if chosen) which are both far easier to use.