Porsche designer: Mission S sets heritage template for next 911

Tobias Sühlmann, who was appointed as Porsche‘s head of design in January and joined the company in February after serving as design chief for McLaren, has revealed the new Porsche Mission S. The Mission S previews a new mid-engined flagship positioned above the 911 and serves as a first look at the future styling direction of the firm under Sühlmann, following a task by CEO Michael Leiters to develop a new direction for the brand. Sühlmann’s first task was to delve into the brand’s history to identify key elements for future models, ensuring continuity so that a Porsche remains recognisable at first glance. Alongside the design study, Porsche is working on a platform for a new mid-engined supercar that will sit above the 911. The exterior features a purist design language with torpedo fenders, a sloping roofline, and a specific width-to-height ratio. Inside, the cabin is driver-focused and largely devoid of touchscreens. The Mission S includes callbacks to classic models such as the 911 GT1, Carrera GT, 550 Spyder, 356, 917, and 928, showing respect for the past without relying on outright retro styling. Discussing the next 911, Sühlmann noted the importance of respecting the past and fine-tuning the concept rather than throwing it out. He also emphasized creating timeless, beautiful cars with emotion and passion rather than chasing fleeting trends.