Racing heritage meets modern sophistication
Porsche’s latest offering showcases evolutionary perfection rather than revolutionary change. The new 911 Carrera S takes everything enthusiasts adored about its predecessor and elevates it to new heights. Behind those iconic rounded headlights lies a masterpiece of German engineering that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a sports car while maintaining the familiar DNA that has made the 911 a motoring legend.
Power meets precision
The beating heart of this mechanical masterpiece remains the tried-and-tested 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, now enhanced with sophisticated new turbochargers and optimised charge-air cooling. These refinements yield an impressive 474bhp – a notable 30bhp increase over its predecessor – while delivering 390lb ft of torque. The result? A blistering 0-62mph sprint in just 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 191mph. Numbers that would have seemed impossible for a sports car of this calibre mere years ago.
Track-ready performance
The enhanced powerplant deserves equally impressive stopping power. Porsche has fitted the new Carrera S with uprated brakes borrowed from the Carrera GTS, featuring substantial 408mm front and 380mm rear discs, complete with distinctive red calipers. These sit behind specially designed 20/21-inch Carrera S wheels, creating a purposeful stance that matches the car’s sporting intentions.
Technological prowess
Standard fitment of the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus system demonstrates the manufacturer’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology. This sophisticated system employs an electronically-controlled differential lock on the rear axle, precisely distributing torque between the rear wheels for optimal traction and handling characteristics.
Luxury meets functionality
The cabin exemplifies Porsche’s attention to detail, with premium leather adorning virtually every surface. Coupe variants offer the practical option of folding rear seats at no additional cost, while Cabriolet models include rear seating as standard. This blend of luxury and functionality creates an environment that’s as suitable for grand touring as it is for spirited driving.
Optional refinements
Those seeking to further enhance their driving experience can opt for ceramic brake discs, offering improved stopping power and reduced unsprung weight. The available PASM sports suspension package lowers the ride height by 10mm and features optimised damper hydraulics, providing an even more engaging driving experience without compromising daily usability.
Market positioning
Starting at £119,800 for the Coupe and £129,800 for the Cabriolet, the new 911 Carrera S positions itself as the perfect middle ground in the 911 range. Sitting between the base Carrera and the hybrid Carrera GTS, it offers a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and daily usability that makes it perhaps the most well-rounded model in the lineup.
The verdict
The new 911 Carrera S proves that evolution trumps revolution when the starting point is already near perfection. Through careful refinement and thoughtful upgrades, Porsche has created a sports car that delivers supercar performance while maintaining the usability and reliability for which the brand is renowned. The latest Carrera S might just be all the 911 anyone could ever need.