What's the news?

Porsche has now announced pricing and specification details for its greatly anticipated 918 Spyder.

Exterior

At first glance, it's easy to see the 918 Spyder as a replacement for the Carrera GT. Its aerodynamic body has been designed to pass through the air as cleanly as possible without compromising its supercar image. Unique to the 918 Spyder is its exhaust outlets that sprout directly from the engine; presumably creating a spectacular noise when its V8 power plant is on song.

The rear wing is electronically controlled by Porsche's Active Aerodynamic (PAA) system, as are other features on the body. E-Power, Sport and Race modes can be chosen. Race extends the wing and spoiler and opens under-floor flaps to create maximum downforce; Sport leaves the spoiler extended but closes the flaps to enable a higher top speed; and E-Power retracts everything to keep the car as aerodynamic as possible.

Interior

Leather can be found adorning the bucket seats, sports steering wheel and dashboard in the 918. Most of the gadgetry is accessed via a touchscreen display between the two seats, including the angle of the rear wing, Porsche's Communication Management (PCM) and a top-end Burmeister stereo system.

Mechanicals

Defining the 918 Spyder is its powertrain. A 4.6-litre V8 engine is mounted centrally and kicks out 608hp on its own. This is then coupled to 95kW front and 115kW rear electric motors to produce a total of 887hp. The top speed is 211mph and 0-62mph is covered in just 2.8 seconds. Despite this, Porsche claims the 918 can manage a frankly astounding economy figure of 94.1mpg.

Whilst all being linked together, all three motors are independent and can be adjusted via a five-way switch on the dashboard. E-Power, Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Race Hybrid and Hot Lap are the options available; each one getting racier as the list goes on. E-Power is the default setting from the outset, providing electric-only power for up to 18 miles. When the battery level drops to a specific level, Hybrid is automatically engaged. Race Hybrid is primarily for track use, while Hot Lap will even drain the electric motors' batteries to get you round the track as quick as possible.

Anything else?

For that further touch of exclusivity, Porsche has made a 'Weissach' package available. This adds carbon fibre to the roof, rear wings, mirrors and windscreen frame and offers classic Porsche racing colours to the body. Alcantara replaces much of the leather inside; where six-point race harnesses and more carbon fibre can be found.

The European price for the standard 918 Spyder sits at €781,155; rising to €853,155 for one equipped with the Weissach package. UK prices have yet to be announced.