2023 Porsche 911 Dakar

What’s new?

The 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar marks a significant departure from the traditional 911 lineup, offering a unique blend of sports car performance and off-road capability. This limited-edition model features a raised ride height, 50 millimeters or 1.96 inches more ground clearance than a standard Carrera, and an additional 0.11 inches available through a lift system. Specially developed Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires and model-specific driving modes, including Rallye and Off-Road, enhance its all-terrain prowess.

Exterior modifications include a fixed rear spoiler, CFRP hood with a large air intake, and stainless-steel body elements for added protection. This trim features full bucket seats and a standard rear-seat delete to save weight. Power comes from a 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer engine producing 473 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed PDK transmission and all-wheel drive system.

Strong performance with an engine derived from the Carrera GTS

The all-new 911 Dakar is powered by a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six engine derived from the Carrera GTS or 4 GTS models. This engine produces 473 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 420 pound-feet of torque between 2,300 and 5,000 rpm. Coupled with an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, the Dakar needs just 3.2 seconds to clock 0-60 mph, making it a capable sports car even on asphalt. However, this off-road sports coupe turns out to be faster in reality, taking just 2.9 seconds to gallop to sixty miles, once again proving Porsche is down-to-earth with its claimed timings. Even though its 0-60 timing is impressive, the all-terrain tires keep its top speed limited to 150 mph, which should be fast enough for high-spirited drivers.

When comparing the 911 Dakar to the 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, the differences in powertrain and performance become evident. The Huracan Sterrato boasts a 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 mill, producing 602 ponies and 413 pound-feet of punch. This allows the Italian supercar to clock 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 160 mph, bettering the Porsche by a decent margin. Moreover, Lambo’s naturally aspirated V10 engines have a massive fanbase.

As for efficiency, the 911 Dakar stays positive with 16 mpg (city) and 24 mpg (highway), providing better efficiency than the Sterrato. Thanks to the twin turbochargers and smaller capacity. A 17.6-gallon fuel tank promises a combined range of 334.4 miles. However, expect the fuel economy to drop during off-road sessions as such surfaces require extra traction, often impacting the efficiency.

Impressive all-terrain capabilities, but equally good on-road finesse

Porsche’s 911 Dakar brings a unique blend of on-road performance and off-road capability to the iconic sports car lineup. Its handling characteristics stem from sophisticated systems, including an all-wheel drive with Porsche Traction Management, an active differential, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus. These work in concert to provide exceptional traction and stability across various terrains.

Electromechanical Power Steering Plus and rear-axle steering contribute to its agility, offering precise control in tight spaces and stability at higher speeds. Dakar-specific tuning of the Porsche Active Suspension Management and Dynamic Chassis Control systems allows for increased wheel travel and softer damping, which is crucial for off-road performance while maintaining on-road composure.

Daily driving impressions suggest the 911 Dakar is surprisingly comfortable despite its off-road focus. Its 50-millimeter higher ground clearance and additional 30-millimeter lift capability (up to 105 mph) provide a commanding view of the road and more independence while navigating alleys and rougher surfaces. However, since the PASM suspension is tuned to keep the car stable on uneven/rough conditions, they have softer tunings. Although the softer settings translate to smooth ride quality, especially on jittery surfaces, drivers will find the Dakar less agile through corners and twisties, with visible body roll at higher speeds.

Multiple driving modes cater to different conditions. Normal and Sport modes handle everyday driving, while Rallye Mode offers rear-biased power distribution for loose surfaces. Off-Road Mode maximizes traction on rough terrain, and Rallye Launch Control allows 20 percent wheel slip for rapid acceleration on loose surfaces.

The 911 Dakar wears Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires with 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels. These tires have more aggressive tread patterns and provide higher durability while cross-country driving, but the grip comes at the cost of higher road noise, delayed acceleration, and reduced economy than the GTS. Buyers looking to hit the track can opt for summer tires, while optional snow tires are offered for those living in snowy regions.

Slowing capabilities are on full display on this trim, as it gets 13.77-inch ventilated rotors on all four wheels, combined with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. These brakes are easy to modulate and have high fade resistance; once slammed, expect it to stop from sixty in around 115 feet; not the best, but sufficient stopping power. Unlike other trims, the Dakar doesn’t come with Porsche’s ceramic composite brakes, which is understandable considering it is made off-road. However, the surface-coated brakes could have been a good addition.

This trim brings a unique flavor to the iconic 911s

The all-new 911 Dakar stands out from its siblings with a rugged makeover, blending classic 911 design cues and a sporty touch via a bevy of off-road upgrades. Most noticeable is its elevated stance, sitting 50 millimeters higher than a 911 Carrera. The increased ride height gives this trim a more commanding presence and provides crucial ground clearance for all-terrain exploration.

Wider wheel arches and rocker panels accommodate the increased track width and offer additional protection against debris, a practical touch for venturing off the beaten path. However, these additions collide with the 911’s classic silhouette, and most purists might not like the outdoorsy look. At the front, LED Matrix headlamps with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus ensure excellent visibility in dark conditions, especially during cross-country excursions. A carbon fiber-reinformed plastic hood with large intakes allows for better airflow, enhancing brake cooling and aerodynamics.

Porsche dresses the 911 Dakar with specially designed 19-inch front and 20-inch rear Satin Black wheels, wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires. While the all-terrain tires add more athleticism to the styling and improve grip, these tires take longer to accelerate on the pavement, resulting in lower economy and higher road noise, snatching the car’s luxury feel and on-road performance. A fixed lightweight rear spoiler adds to the car’s distinctive look and provides necessary downforce, but it may not appeal to those who prefer the clean lines of retractable spoilers found on other 911 models.

Red aluminum tow hooks are fitted at both the front and rear for added practicality in off-road scenarios. Underbody protection elements made of stainless steel safeguard vital components during rough terrain excursions. Adventure-focused hardware like a custom-made bumper with stone chip protectors looks after the radiator from gravel, dust, and stones. An optional roof rack allows you to carry extra luggage adventure-related gear and mount tents during overlanding scenarios. The roof rack can also be fitted with auxiliary LED lamps to improve visibility.

This trim provides a myriad of customization options. Buyers can choose from a wide range of no-cost colors, but special colors are available at $3,270 if they need a bespoke touch. Paint to Sample Schemes cost $14,750 or $37,180. Dakar Rally lovers can customize their examples with a two-tone paint scheme inspired by the 1984 Paris-Dakar-winning 911, but that option costs a whopping $28,470.

A two-seater cabin exhibits weight-saving measures and a performance focus

As the special edition off-road trim of the 911 lineup, the 911 Dakar differentiates itself with an outdoorsy exterior and packs an unfamiliar interior to focus more on performance. The first thing you’ll notice inside is the two-seater configuration, as the rear seats are removed to reduce weight and emphasize performance and additional storage space.

The dashboard layout remains like that of the more expensive 911 trims. It’s covered with suede materials for an upscale touch and carries a special badge with an individual build number, showcasing its exclusivity. Drivers are treated to a heated and leather-trimmed GT steering wheel with user-friendly physical dials in the upper part and touch controls in the front console. Brushed metal accents are standard, but buyers can opt for carbon fiber inlays optionally, plus Shark Blue or Shade Green touches via Rallye Design Package to sprinkle a sportier touch.

Leather seats with suede inserts and four-way power-adjustable sports seats are standard fitments. Heated front seats are available as a no-cost upgrade, something buyers will like in this trim. While the standard front seats offer sufficient comfort and an upright driving posture for most driving scenarios, Porsche provides 18-way adaptive sports seats as a no-cost upgrade if you need more comfort, thicker bolsters, and additional power adjustment options.

The front seats offer sufficient head and legroom, but the absence of the rear seats makes it anything but family-friendly. Race-Tex interior, GT steering wheel with Race-Tex and carbon fiber inserts, and an aluminum gear shifter add a sporty touch to the cabin.

From a technology perspective, the Dakar trim is identical to other 911 trims. A semi-digital instrument cluster with an analog rev meter and two seven-inch screens shows essential information intuitively. The center features a 10.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wi-Fi, SiriusXM, voice assistance, and navigation are standard, but you don’t get wireless charging, which is a minor disadvantage.

A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system keeps you entertained with crisp sound quality, but it’s often said to have problems and lower longevity. If you need an upgrade, there is a Burmester 13-speaker High-End audio set with better sound quality, but that adds $3,980.

The front trunk provides 4.6 cubic feet of cargo space for storage, 0.6 cubic feet more than the Sterrato, but still terrible compared to modern sports cars. The interior doesn’t have rear seats, meaning you get extra space behind the first row.

Interior features highlights

• Four-way power sports seats with manual lumbar support

• Leather/suede upholstery

• Heated front seats

• Dual-zone AC with air filter

• GT Sport heated steering wheel

• Semi-digital cluster with two seven-inch displays

• 10.9-inch touchscreen with PCM and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

• Bose 12-speaker premium audio system

• 18-way power sports seats with lumbar support and memory

• Sports seats with backrest in leather/carbon fiber - $1,900/$2,590

• GT Sports heated steering wheel with Race-Tex/carbon fiber - $480/$680

• Race-Tex upholstery – $1,360

• Extended Leather Package Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur - $1,360

• Burmester 13-speaker High-End audio system - $3,980

How is the warranty?

The 911 Dakar carries the same warranty as the rest of the lineup. It packs a four-year or 36,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty. Moreover, buyers get a complimentary maintenance perk for one year or 10,000 miles.

Lamborghini sells the Huracan Sterrato with a three-year or 36,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty, but there is no complimentary maintenance.

Warranty breakdown

• Four years or 50,000 miles basic warranty

• Four years or 50,000 miles powertrain warranty

• Four years or 50,00 miles of roadside assistance

• 12 years or unlimited miles perforation and corrosion warranty

• One year or 10,000 miles complimentary maintenance

How does it stand against the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato?

The 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato is the ideal rival to the Porsche 911 Dakar, offering sharp looks, supercar performance, and off-road capability. At $273,177, the Sterrato is $53,177 more than the 911 Dakar, which starts at $222,000.

Under the hood, the Sterrato features a 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, producing 602 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of twist. According to independent test results, this powertrain allows the Sterrato to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than the Porsche. The Italian super off-roader offers a higher top speed of 162 mph than Dakar’s electronically limited 150 mph.

The Sterrato embraces Lamborghini’s aggressive design language, with flared wheel arches, roof rails, and underbody protection emphasizing its off-road intent. It packs a luxurious cabin with premium materials and advanced technology, including a digital instrument cluster and a futuristic dashboard layout. While both cars seat two passengers, the 911 offers more room with its longer and taller dimensions. Moreover, the Lamborghini includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a four-speaker audio system, which can be a disadvantage if you seek modern infotainment features. Yet, who expects larger screens in a Lambo?

In terms of off-road prowess, the 911 Dakar outperforms the Sterrato with 0.98 inches higher ground clearance and improved approach, breakover, and departure angles. While both cars aren’t designed for hardcore off-road driving, the Dakar can drive more comfortably on terrain and rocky surfaces.

Conclusion: A luxurious terrain-ready luxury coupe, but don’t expect Wrangler-like capabilities

Porsche’s 911 Dakar brings a unique proposition to the sports car world, blending iconic 911 performance with light off-road capability. It offers a compelling package for enthusiasts seeking adventure beyond the tarmac without sacrificing on-road dynamics. However, enthusiats might find the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato more appealing, with its raw V10 power and more exotic supercar styling.

While the 911 Dakar impresses with its versatility, it’s important to note its limitations. It’s designed for light off-road use and can’t match dedicated off-road vehicles like the F-150 Raptor R or Jeep Wrangler Rubicon in challenging terrain. So, suppose you’re expecting this Porsche to cross streams effortlessly and reign supreme in muddy conditions. In that case, unfortunately, such deeds will cause an abrupt breakdown, and Porsche is known for charging a heavy sum for powertrain or mechanical repairs.

While Dakar’s higher price point compared to standard 911 models raises questions about its value proposition, there is hardly any doubt this car is made for enthusiasts who don’t mind spending. Moreover, the sportier looks and 2500-unit exclusivity are hard to ignore.

FAQs

What’s the starting price of the 911 Dakar?

The 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar starts at $222,000, making it the most expensive non-Turbo/GT trim in the lineup. Based on class and pricing, it battles the 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato.

What makes the 911 Dakar different from a standard 911?

The 911 Dakar is the most expensive and most powerful non-Turbo trim of the 2023 Porsche 911 lineup. Production of this trim is limited to only 2,500 units globally. Being an off-road-focused trim, it features a raised ride height, all-terrain tires, and specialized off-road driving modes. It’s designed for light off-road use while maintaining on-road performance.

What engine does the 911 Dakar have?

The 911 Dakar uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine derived from the Carrera 4 GTS, producing 473 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 150 mph due to its all-terrain tires.

How does the 911 Dakar compare to the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato?

The 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato costs $273,177, which is $53,177 more expensive than the 911 Dakar. Unlike the Porsche 911 Dakar, which is a sports car, the Huracan Sterrato is a supercar underneath, providing 602 horsepower and 413 pound-feet with a 5.2-liter V10. The Lamborghini also features a sharper exterior design and is faster, with better 0-60 mph time and higher top speed. However, the 911 Dakar has better off-road capabilities and cabin technology.

Are there any special design packages available for the 911 Dakar?

Porsche offers the 911 Dakar with a Rallye Design Package that pays homage to the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally-winning 911, along with three decal sets replicating the styles of 1971, 1974, and 1978 Dakar race cars.