Latest news with #PORSCHE


The Sun
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Porsche expands 911 line-up with new AWD Carrera 4S and Targa 4S models
PORSCHE has unveiled three new additions to its 911 family, introducing the latest Carrera 4S in both coupé and cabriolet forms, alongside the Targa 4S. Positioned just below the high-performance GTS variants, the new models double the all-wheel-drive options available in the current 911 range, bringing the total to six. These additions not only enhance driving dynamics but also provide expanded standard equipment and greater customisation opportunities for enthusiasts. The choice of all-wheel-drive models remains popular among Porsche buyers, particularly in the 'S' segment, where around half opt for the added traction benefits. Designed to inspire confidence in varying weather conditions and on demanding roads, the new 911 all-wheel-drive models retain a rear-biased layout. Porsche Traction Management (PTM) adjusts torque distribution as needed, sending more power to the front axle to maintain stability. The system continues to use an electromechanically controlled, water-cooled clutch assembly in the front differential, though the gear ratio has been slightly revised. Notably, the Targa body style remains exclusive to the all-wheel-drive configuration. Beneath the surface, the new models share a reworked powertrain first seen in the updated Carrera S. The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six engine now produces 480PS, delivering 30PS more than its predecessor. This increase is attributed to an improved intercooler setup, drawing inspiration from the 911 Turbo, which enables enhanced thermal efficiency and throttle response. Power is channelled to all four wheels via Porsche's eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. Performance figures underline the car's sporting intent. The Carrera 4S Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.3 seconds when equipped with the Sport Chrono Package, reaching a top speed of 308km/h. These statistics place the model among the most capable in its category. The Targa 4S brings historical significance to the fore. The Targa concept, which originated in 1965 as a response to convertible safety concerns in the United States, blends the open-air enjoyment of a cabriolet with the structure and comfort of a coupé. Initially dubbed the 'safety cabriolet,' the first Targa debuted with a roll bar inspired by motorsport, a removable roof, and a folding rear window. The name Targa itself was taken from the legendary Targa Florio road race in Sicily. Over the decades, the Targa has evolved significantly. The 993 generation, introduced in 1993, marked the end of manual roof removal. Since 2006, the Targa has been sold exclusively with all-wheel drive. A major transformation arrived in 2014 when a fully automated roof system was introduced. In just 19 seconds, the car transitions from coupé to open-top, with the rear glass folding away and the roof panel tucking neatly under the roll bar. The wide hoop and wraparound glass remain signature features, while the roof itself can be specified in black, blue, red, or brown. Standard specification across the new all-wheel-drive variants has been notably enhanced. Fitted with staggered 20-inch front and 21-inch rear Carrera S wheels in a new design, these models also benefit from Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) and a sports exhaust system that delivers the unmistakable 911 soundtrack. Brakes have been uprated to the GTS specification, with 408 mm discs at the front and 380 mm at the rear, accompanied by red callipers. The Targa 4S also receives rear-axle steering as standard. Inside the cabin, a leather interior package is included, complemented by matrix LED headlights and wireless smartphone charging. Additional features such as power-folding mirrors with perimeter lighting, rain-sensing auto-dimming mirrors, and lane departure warning are also standard. While the coupé variant comes as a two-seater by default, a rear seat option is available at no extra cost. The cabriolet and Targa versions are delivered with rear seats fitted as standard. To cater to individual tastes, Porsche continues to offer a broad array of optional extras, including bespoke colour combinations, advanced driver assistance technologies, premium audio systems, and alternative roof configurations. With these latest introductions, Porsche reinforces the 911's legacy as a versatile, high-performance sports car that honours tradition while embracing modern technology. The Carrera 4S Coupé, Cabriolet, and Targa 4S exemplify the brand's commitment to dynamic excellence, comfort, and all-season usability, ensuring the 911 remains a benchmark in its segment.


Scottish Sun
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Porsche unveils road-legal hypercar 50 years after original won world titles – but there's a catch
The new motor features significant changes from the original race-winner CARN'T BELIEVE IT Porsche unveils road-legal hypercar 50 years after original won world titles – but there's a catch Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) PORSCHE has shocked the motoring world by unveiling a new road legal hypercar. What's more is that it's spun off the a motor that's won multiple endurance racing world titles - but there's a catch. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Porsche has revealed a new road legal hypercar Credit: PA 2 It's based on a trailblazing motor that won multiple endurance racing titles Credit: PA The Porsche 963 RSP is unlike anything you can currently purchase - because only one has been made. It's a version of the manufacturers WEC and ISMA championship winning machine. And it's been built to mark 50 years since Count Rossi drove the trailblazing Porsche 917 from Zuffenhausen to Paris. Like that all-conquering motor, this one's been made road legal. Porsche's North American boss Timo Resch said: "How could we reimagine the 917's story in today's time? "The 917 from the story was every inch a race car – albeit one driven on the road – and we took the same approach with the 963 RSP. "It uses beautiful materials of the best quality available, but is still every bit a race car underneath." The 963 features significant changes over the car on which its based. In terms of the engine, the carmaker had to allow the 4.5-litre, twin-turbo V8 hybrid to run on regular unleaded rather than race fuel. While not an easy undertaking, the 918 Spyder-derived V8, e-motor and battery combo delivers a whopping 671bhp. Inside Taycan Turbo GT Porsche that can hit 200mph as SunSport's Isabelle Barker is taken for a spin by Formula E safety car driver The road height was also adjusted to make it suitable for general roads and the dampers softened. The control unit was reprogrammed too to allow for the headlights and taillights to operate closer to those of a motor on the road. But its the interior that departs most from the original race car. In the entirely bespoke cabin, you'll find soft tan leather with a single piece driver's seat clad with additional cushioning and a fixed headrest. You'll find a special panel next to the driver that stores the steering wheel as well as a helmet and car aficionados will spot the nods to the 917. The biggest tribute comes in the form of the exterior colour that's the same 'Martini Silver' as Count Rossi's 917. This one's been painted too, a unique challenge because of the carbon fibre and Kevlar bodywork. The bodywork also had to be modified to cover the wheel arches, headlights and tail lights added as well as closed-off banking plates on the rear wing and mounting points for the license plates. An enamel Porsche badge can be found on the nose and proper wet road tyres wrapped around 18 inch racing wheels. ONE-OF-A-KIND 'SPECIAL' MOTOR The 963 RSP gets its name from the involvement of American auto racing team owner Roger Searle Penske on the project. Resch explained he called on Penske for "support" in the car's construction, with the racing expert ensuring the classic race car's character was not changed for the new model. The Porsche boss said that as Penske's involvement increased, the company realised he would be the perfect, and only, customer for the car. So while it was never intended to be a fully road-legal 963, Porsche received an exemption from the EPA in the US as it understood "how special" the car is. Despite this, it is not a fully road-registered car - and it needed special dispensation to run in France at the Le Mans 24hr weekend. For now, the car is expected to remain one-of-a-kind, with a Porsche spokesperson telling Top Gear that wide-scale selling would "change the character" of the iconic motor.


The Irish Sun
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Porsche unveils road-legal hypercar 50 years after original won world titles – but there's a catch
PORSCHE has shocked the motoring world by unveiling a new road legal hypercar. What's more is that it's spun off the a motor that's won multiple endurance Advertisement 2 Porsche has revealed a new road legal hypercar Credit: PA 2 It's based on a trailblazing motor that won multiple endurance racing titles Credit: PA The Porsche 963 RSP is unlike anything you can currently purchase - because only one has been made. It's a version of the manufacturers WEC and ISMA championship winning machine. And it's been built to mark 50 years since Count Rossi drove the trailblazing Porsche 917 from Zuffenhausen to Paris. Like that all-conquering motor, this one's been made road legal. Advertisement Read more Motors news Porsche's North American boss Timo Resch said: "How could we reimagine the 917's story in today's time? "The 917 from the story was every inch a race car – albeit one driven on the road – and we took the same approach with the 963 RSP. "It uses beautiful materials of the best quality available, but is still every bit a race car underneath." The 963 features significant changes over the car on which its based. Advertisement Most read in Motors In terms of the engine, the carmaker had to allow the 4.5-litre, twin-turbo V8 hybrid to run on regular unleaded rather than race fuel. While not an easy undertaking, the 918 Spyder-derived V8, e-motor and battery combo delivers a whopping 671bhp. Inside Taycan Turbo GT Porsche that can hit 200mph as SunSport's Isabelle Barker is taken for a spin by Formula E safety car driver The road height was also adjusted to make it suitable for general roads and the dampers softened. The control unit was reprogrammed too to allow for the headlights and taillights to operate closer to those of a motor on the road. Advertisement But its the interior that departs most from the original race car. In the entirely bespoke cabin, you'll find soft tan leather with a single piece driver's seat clad with additional cushioning and a fixed headrest. You'll find a special panel next to the driver that stores the steering wheel as well as a helmet and car aficionados will spot the nods to the 917. The biggest tribute comes in the form of the exterior colour that's the same 'Martini Silver' as Count Rossi's 917. Advertisement This one's been painted too, a unique challenge because of the carbon fibre and Kevlar bodywork. The bodywork also had to be modified to cover the wheel arches, headlights and tail lights added as well as closed-off banking plates on the rear wing and mounting points for the license plates. An enamel Porsche badge can be found on the nose and proper wet road tyres wrapped around 18 inch racing wheels. ONE-OF-A-KIND 'SPECIAL' MOTOR The 963 RSP gets its name from the involvement of American auto racing team owner Roger Searle Penske on the project. Advertisement Resch explained he called on Penske for "support" in the car's construction, with the racing expert ensuring the classic race car's character was not changed for the new model. The Porsche boss said that as Penske's involvement increased, the company realised he would be the perfect, and only, customer for the car. So while it was never intended to be a fully road-legal 963, Porsche received an exemption from the EPA in the US as it understood "how special" the car is. Despite this, it is not a fully road-registered car - and it needed special dispensation to run in France at the Advertisement For now, the car is expected to remain one-of-a-kind, with a Porsche spokesperson telling
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The Best Looking Porsche Models Ever Made
Porsche has never been about flamboyance. Every curve, angle, and detail reflects a relentless pursuit of engineering perfection. With just a few exceptions — like the first-gen Cayenne, Panamera, and yolk-eyed 996 — Porsche is yet to make an objectively ugly car. Beauty is subjective, of course. Porsches may lack the wild flair of their Italian rivals, but their sleek, simple designs ooze elegance with just the right hint of aggression. Porsche found different ways of innovating, without slapping buck-tooth-inspired front grilles on their cars. These are the best-looking Porsches of all time. The Porsches featured in this article are based entirely on my personal opinion. All technical specifications, historical details, and performance figures are sourced from Porsche's official website, unless otherwise stated. Entries are ranked from oldest to newest. The 356 was Porsche's first-ever production car, introduced in 1948. It had four different generations, with the first one being called the Pre-A. Apart from its traditional Porsche silhouette, the Pre-A 356 Coupe's details are what make it exceptionally beautiful. Beyond its classic Porsche silhouette, it's the finer details that make the Pre-A 356 Coupe exceptionally beautiful. Chrome bumper guards, window trim, hood accents, and 'PORSCHE' badging on the nose highlight its sophistication — a trait many premium sports cars of the era flaunted. In many ways, the 356's design still echoes in today's 911, especially through its round headlights and iconic coupe roofline. After the Pre-A generation came the Porsche 356 A in 1955. Since we've already covered the 356 Coupe, I only see it fitting to give the open-air version, the Speedster, a spot in this article. While it shares the same design philosophy as the Pre-A Coupe, the 356 A Speedster feels like an entirely different animal — less subtle and even more jarring. Minor updates like the addition of the Porsche crest and chrome side accents were like the cherry on top of the cake. But it's the low, roofless silhouette that steals the show. Describing it as crescent moon-shaped sounds odd on paper, but somehow, Porsche made it look exquisite. It's no secret that many big-name celebrities have a knack for Porsche. But one of their original fanboys was James Dean, who traded his 356 Speedster in for a 550 Spyder. Unfortunately, this was also the last car he ever had the chance to drive. The 550 Spyder was as much a race car as it was artwork. Powering the extremely lightweight 1,212-lb topless Porsche was a four-cylinder boxer engine with 110 horsepower (hp) available. The 550 Spyder is one of my favorite Porsche cars of all time, not just because James Dean saw it as a worthy successor to the 356 Speedster, but because of its performance prowess and simple, yet stunning design. The 904 is probably the closest thing Porsche has ever made to an Italian supercar, at least regarding its appearance. Its short nose and rear overhang remind me of the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, as well as its headlights. But under its voluptuous body, the 904 is a true Porsche sports car. Being a homologation special, the 904 Carrera GTS's main purpose was racing. Therefore, it had an eight-cylinder boxer engine mounted behind the driver with 240 hp. Albeit a capable performer, the highlight of the 904 for me is its bespoke design, which no other road-legal Porsches have managed to replicate since, in my opinion. The original Porsche 911 is one of the most beloved sports cars of all time. Introduced in 1963, the 911 was the successor to the Porsche 356. It pioneered the rear-mounted air-cooled flat-six formula, which 911s are famous for nowadays. Although its design took inspiration from the 356, it smoothed some things out and made it even classier. Its round headlights, thin tail lights, and side profile are borderline flawless. As a result, every single 911 generation that came after it still sports a similar design language. As you know, there's beauty in simplicity. At first glance, the original Porsche 911 and Carrera RS might be nearly identical, apart from a few stickers. But that couldn't be further from the truth. The Carrera RS 2.7 was lighter, more powerful, and it was Germany's fastest production car at the time, according to Porsche. While the standard 911 had a 2.0-liter flat-six, the Carrera RS had a larger 2.7-liter unit with more than 200 hp. It received some tasteful upgrades too, making it look especially mean, including a ducktail spoiler and wide wheel arches. Fun fact: This was Porsche's first time using the Carrera name — a title used by near-base model 991s nowadays. Porsche redesigned the 911 for the 1974 model year. This generation, called the G, was initially available in two different body styles, namely a hardtop coupe and a targa, with the latter being my personal favorite. Despite having black plastic bumpers and trim pieces, the 911 G didn't lose its sophisticated undertone. And thanks to a wide stance accompanied by 15-inch Fuchs wheels, the Carrera didn't sacrifice its sporty nature either. With the plastic top removed, the Carrera Targa looked like nothing else on the road with its stainless steel roll bar and gigantic rear window. In the '80s, Porsche introduced the first-ever 911 Turbo, also referred to as the 930. In standard form, the 930 Turbo was a gorgeous piece of kit already, but there's a specific version thereof that I consider even more beautiful — the Flachbau. In essence, this was a 930 Turbo with pop-up headlights and a sharp front end. Believe it or not, the Flachbau wasn't done by some sort of aftermarket company like Singer. Instead, some Porsche customers could order it via the Sonderwunsch program. In English, Flachbau translates to Slantnose or Flatnose — pretty self-explanatory if you ask me. In 1982, Porsche released the 944 — a front-engined four-cylinder sports car meant for those who want something a bit more tame than a 911. Albeit vastly different from the rear-engined 911, the 944 was still a sight for sore eyes. And even better-looking was its Turbo variant. Instead of having heaps of black plastic and rubber, the 944 Turbo's bumpers were all color-matched, with the only outlier being a black rear wing. The 944 is one of the lesser-popular Porsche models — a shame, honestly, especially considering its mighty 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Porsche 959 is arguably one of the most innovative cars of all time. In 1986, it had active suspension and a sequential twin-turbocharged engine that allowed it to reach 199 mph. Performance set aside, the 959 is a true piece of art to look at. Usually, Porsche will have their cars feature a purposeful design that's not too in-your-face. The 959 was the exception. At first, the 959 was supposed to be a Group B rally car, based on the 911. But because Group B was cancelled, Porsche went on and built their very first-ever supercar. I consider the 964-generation Porsche 911 as the most underappreciated 911 of the bunch, especially the Turbo. Not because it has a lackluster performance, or is heinous to look at, but rather because it existed at the same time as the aforementioned 959. Like its predecessor, the 930 Turbo, the 964 has a monstrous rear wing that complements its flared wheel arches, emphasising its uniqueness. That said, it's still not as attention-grabbing as its Italian rivals, such as the Lamborghini Diablo. I know, I know; another 911 Turbo. And like the Porsche that came before it, it too isn't vastly different from the one prior. From a mechanical point of view, the 993 Turbo changed quite a bit, including the use of two turbochargers instead of one, and all-wheel drive. It's sleeker than those that came before it — almost like Porsche put a 964 in the sun and remolded it. As a result, the lines flow slightly better, the headlights are slightly slanted, and its monstrous rear wing is more integrated. This also marks the end of the air-cooled Porsche 911. The Carrera GT wasn't about innovation, but rather pure insanity. Inspired by LeMans, Porsche ditched the traditional flat-six in favor of a symphonic 5.7-liter V10 with more than 600 hp on tap. In my mind, I'll always think of the Carrera GT as a 911 that became severely obsessed with working out. The Carrera GT takes the average 911 and turns everything up to the max. It's longer, wider, lower, and much more intimidating than the 996 Carrera, yet doesn't stray too far from its roots. The result is a jaw-droppingly gorgeous Porsche supercar that's on every enthusiast's bucket list. A phrase that gets thrown around a lot regarding the 911-based GT cars, like the GT3 and GT2, is that it's 'a racecar for the road.' While that statement carries a lot of truth, I don't consider all the Porsche GT cars necessarily beautiful. And while I know many consider the 997 GT3 RS 4.0 one of the best-looking Porsches ever made, I argue that its more hardcore, turbocharged version, the GT2, looks infinitely better. Its design isn't as rowdy as the GT3 RS, yet it still honors the same race car spirit. It retains the humongous wing and wide hips and intakes you'd expect from a GT Porsche, but doesn't share the RS's over-the-top appearance. Simple, classy, with a hint of aggression. The Porsche 918 Spyder forms part of the Holy Trinity of plug-in hypercars, which include the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1. All these cars have aged tremendously well, with the Porsche's design showing no age at all. Therefore, I'd argue it's one of the best-looking Porsches ever made. Being the spiritual successor to the Carrera GT, it shares a similar philosophy to its V10 relative. This includes exhaust pipes mounted right behind your head, an extremely low, wide stance, and a cheeky rear spoiler for that extra touch of pizzaz. Although some may argue the 911 GT3 is too much of a purpose-built race car to be considered a work of art, I think it's the perfect balance between the two. Although it has a rear spoiler, it's conservative in size and tastefully integrated. Other race car exterior elements include 20-inch center-lock wheels, dual exhaust tips, and front and rear bumpers that nearly scrape the ground. Once again, the guys over at Stuttgart created a racecar that looks like it belongs in a museum. I suppose you can consider the 911 Speedster somewhat of a Frankenstein creation — a pretty monster, that is. The Speedster is a prettier, more understated version of the otherwise track-ready GT3. It shares a host of performance parts from the GT3, including its wheels, brakes, and 503-hp flat-six that revs up to 9,000 rpm. However, its design is truly bespoke. Unlike the ordinary Cabriolet or Targa, the 911 Speedster has a unique roof that consists of only one piece of fabric. That's not all Porsche has done, though. They also shortened the window frames and made the side windows smaller to give the Speedster, as they say, an "athletic profile". For a long time, many called the Boxster nothing more than the poor man's Porsche — a wannabe 911. How those people are eating their words now. The Cayman GT4 uses a mighty 4.0-litre flat-six, similar to the one found in the 992.2 GT3, but it weighs a lot less. With that engine comes a racecar-inspired exterior refresh, too. Like a proper Porsche GT car, the Cayman GT4 benefits from a stupendous rear wing, accompanied by a front lip spoiler, 20-inch wheels, and pronounced side air intakes. Albeit not as hardcore as the GT4 RS, I feel the GT4 is far easier on the eye. The 718 Spyder is mechanically identical to the previous entry, the Cayman GT4. Yet, I think the Spyder looks exponentially better than its hardtop twin in every single way. Although I adore the GT4's rear wing, I still prefer the Spyder's petite spoiler. Look past the spoiler, and you'll see the Spyder has similar humps as the 918 Spyder and 911 Speedster. And although removing the fabric roof is quite a tedious process, it's worth it. Not just for aesthetic purposes, but a topless Porsche GT car gives you a driving experience like no other. Although the 992-generation GT3 RS is a cool-looking car, I can't bring myself to associate its boldness with beauty. And while the much less extravagant GT3 is gorgeous — and just broke a Nürburgring record — its wingless version, the GT3 Touring, is the Porsche that wins my heart. It's timeless. It combines the traditional 911's iconic silhouette with some more bold design elements from the GT3, like its bumpers and wheels, but ignores the spoiler. I know we're supposed to just focus on exterior appearances, but I think the latest GT3 Touring deserves some brownie points too, since it's one of the very few cars on sale that still come with a manual transmission. Porsche's greatest designs aren't just beautiful — they're timeless. From the earliest 356 to their latest halo cars, Porsche has perfected the art of evolution over revolution. Rather than chasing trends, Porsche designs stick to their roots. Many Porsche models, particularly the 911, have maintained a familiar design language for decades. It's not laziness or lack of imagination — it's because they got it right the first time. It's a rare balance that very few brands in the automotive world have ever mastered.


The Irish Sun
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
YouTube star has £30k Porsche stolen by crooks who used it as battering ram in brazen petrol station raid
A LUXURY Porsche was used as a battering ram by crooks in a brazen raid on a petrol station - just minutes after it was stolen from an MOT centre. The SUV, which belongs to used car dealer Joe Betty - known for his YouTube channel 3 YouTube star Joe Betty, known for his channel Shifting Metal, had his Porsche Cayenne stolen from an MOT centre Credit: YouTube 3 The luxury SUV was used by crooks as a battering ram in a raid on a petrol station Credit: YouTube 3 A gang of men were filmed on CCTV breaking into a garage and taking off with the Cayenne Credit: YouTube According to Both cars were then driven to an Asda petrol station, where they were used as battering rams in an attempt to get inside. The Porsche, a high-end, V8 S Tiptronic S model from 2015 that's typically priced between £15,000 to £30,000, was purchased by Betty just days before the incident. He'd even lined up a buyer for it and had taken a deposit when he'd sent it for an MOT test. Read more Motors News He said: 'I bought it from an auction on the Monday, we drove it back on the same day and incredibly it was one of those rare occasions in the motor trade where we'd taken a deposit and it was ready to go out when it was stolen on the Thursday night. 'We phoned the customer that morning, just letting them know. 'They are still trying to buy another car from us but it's finding the right car for them now, because it was a very nice spec model and had all the right things they wanted. 'I haven't seen it as it's currently at a recovery yard and I'm waiting to see what happens with the MOT centre and insurance. Most read in Motors 'From what I could see [at the petrol station], it looked like it had lost engine oil. "Some rumours I'd heard from a couple of different places was that it was left running. Watch moment car thief boy, 9, sneaks into uninsured £135k PORSCHE to go on daring joyride - but it doesn't end well 'If that's the case then the engine will be no good anymore. 'The back end of the car I haven't seen unfortunately, because the last time I saw it had an Asda Express parked on it but I can't imagine it's great. 'I think it would probably be salvageable if it weren't for the engine. It would certainly be thousands of pounds of work, I would guess.' The damage occurred when the crooks reversed the Porsche into the main entrance of the store, before seemingly getting it stuck on a metal pillar. Meanwhile, the Ford was smashed into a smaller unit outside the store. The group later escaped the scene in a getaway vehicle which was on false plates. According to Betty, police took DNA evidence at the scene, but he doubts the gang will be found. He added: 'I think in the motor trade you kind of just get used to these weird and wonderful problems that you have. 'I'm quite nonchalant about it at the moment but I imagine, as it drags on and is just trickling in the background, it get more upsetting. 'It has made us think about our own security, I guess. 'We've had someone try to steal a car from the forecourt before. They smashed the window of a Fiesta ST, but set the alarm off and ran away but that's about it, really. 'We've been quite lucky up until now, in a sense but this has definitely tipped the scale. 'The police are working on it, but other than perhaps getting some DNA, which they've taken swabs from the scene, I don't think they've got much to go on, because everyone was wearing masks and the getaway car was on cloned plates. 'The footage that we had of them cutting into the MOT centre, they were so nonchalant about it that I think this is not their first rodeo. 'They've done it before and I don't think there's much hope of conviction coming to be honest.' A spokesperson for Somerset and Avon Police said: ''At 3.44am on Friday 23 May we received a report of a group of men trying to force entry to a building off the A371 in Locking. 'Officers arrived five minutes later and found the group had left the area after damaging the building. 'Officers carried out a search of the area, supported by a specialist dog team, but no one was located. 'A black Porsche Cayenne and a grey Ford S-Max were found damaged at the scene. Both vehicles are believed to have been stolen during a burglary in Commerce Way, Highbridge earlier in the night. 'The group of men are believed to have left the area in a blue Audi Q5. They were wearing black clothing and balaclavas. 'Our investigation to identify them is ongoing. 'Anyone with information is asked to call 101, using the reference number 5225143650.'