Forget PDK! What about the Paddle Shifters?

By now, most of you are aware that the recently unveiled Porsche 2010 Turbo not only received a much anticipated facelift, but is also available with their optional double clutch gearbox (PDK). Porsche, however, has a habit of announcing new cars and products that focus on a certain subject while hiding sliding other important information into the body of the press release (as an example, they released pictures of the Panamera’s interior shots and in that release had the much awaited pricing information). The announcement about the 2010 Porsche Turbo with PDK was no different. Yes, it’s fantastic news that the Turbo will now have PDK as an option (and as a result Sports Chrono and Launch Control). What’s of even more interest to me is the following:

Models equipped with PDK are also available with a new, optional three-spoke steering wheel with gearshift paddles as an alternative to the standard steering wheel with its proven shift buttons. Fitted firmly on the steering wheel, the right paddle is for shifting up, the left paddle for shifting down.

That’s right, paddle shifters. It seems like Porsche has been listening to its customers and product reviewers. While I really enjoy the PDK and am amazed at how well it works, the standard PDK steering wheel buttons just aren’t intuitive and with my large hands I’m repeatedly making unintended shifts.

While I’m sure this new option will makes its way down the food chain to the rest of the 911 family, you never can tell. At this point, I can’t wait for the opportunity to try these new shifters both on and off the track. For now, I’ll have to be content with an edited version of Porsche’s promotional video.

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[Source: PCNA]