2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S (992.2) First Drive: Refined Performance

Powertrain and Performance

• 🚀 The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S (992.2) features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer six-cylinder engine producing 473 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque.
• ⚡ It is equipped with an 8-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox and is exclusively rear-wheel drive for the Carrera S model.
• 💨 With new turbos and a slight power increase, this generation feels significantly more potent, comparable to previous GTS models.
• ⏱️ It achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 3.2 seconds, showcasing its impressive acceleration.

Interior and Technology

• 📱 The interior now boasts a fully digital gauge cluster, a departure from traditional analog dials.
• ⚠️ A significant complaint is the infotainment system's ergonomics and UI, particularly for adjusting brightness, which requires navigating multiple menus.
• 🔊 Despite some interface challenges, it includes features like voice activation for climate control, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
• 🔌 Physical controls for climate, volume, and track selection are present, along with two USB-C ports and a wireless charger.

Design and Practicality

• ✨ The exterior receives subtle refinements, with cleaned-up front and rear fascias and a continuous LED strip at the rear.
• 🎨 The Guards Red exterior on the tested model is highlighted as a standout color, complemented by staggered 20"/21" RS Spyder wheels.
• 📦 The front trunk offers practical storage, capable of fitting a full-size suitcase, and the rear seats, while small, add versatility.
• 💨 The rear spoiler automatically deploys for aerodynamic and cooling benefits, and the front axle lift system provides extra ground clearance.

Driving Dynamics and Experience

• 🛣️ The handling is described as sublime, with fantastic traction and a highly capable front end, enhanced by optional rear-axle steering for improved cornering.
• 🔊 The sport exhaust system provides a crisp sound, though some higher RPM notes can sound synthetic, potentially piped in.
• 🌧️ The wet drive mode offers throttle linearity and controlled downshifts, providing confidence in adverse conditions.
• 💡 While the steering offers confidence, it lacks significant feel and feedback, leading to a slightly numb sensation, though overall driving inputs are well-calibrated.

Overall Value and Conclusion

• 💰 The as-tested price of $178,755 is noted as expensive, with many other high-performance options available at this price point.
• ✅ Despite minor complaints about infotainment and a perceived lack of character, the 911 Carrera S is lauded for its exceptional driving performance, comfort, and overall satisfaction.
• 💯 The car is considered a sweet spot in the 911 lineup, offering a blend of performance and daily usability that makes it a compelling, albeit pricey, choice.