The Ever Complex 911 Range: Too Many Choices for the Average Joe

Even 62 years on, the Porsche 911 range remains as complex and convoluted as ever. With so many different models in the current 992.2 guise to choose from. If for instance, you are a keen driver who’s both a Porsche enthusiast and values the intricate valves and roar of a naturally aspirated unit, the GT3 is your only choice.

If you, on the other hand, can’t get an allocation or afford a GT3, the Carrera T is the best option. For those who want arguably the best car, the complex GTS t-Hybrid is without any doubt the ultimate choice. And if you’re a cheap scape that just wants to brag at the country club, you have a 911, you will undoubtedly have the base bargain Carrera.

But what if you aren’t interested in any of these intricacies? You just want a 911 because of how damn good it is and want one that doesn’t have a complex hybrid setup, manual gearbox and lack of power. Well, thankfully Porsche have the answer with their brand new 992.2 Carrera S.

The Changes to the Interior

Being the second generation of 992 911, this new Carrera S bring several updates over the 992.1. The biggest is the interior, featuring the digital display and rev counter rather than the familiar analogues setup. With this new dash comes a button to switch between menus and a stop-start button instead of a manually operated key.

In addition, the Interior features many options. Standard leather trim now covers the seats, dashboard, and door panels but buyers can further enhance the cabin with a full leather interior package or opt for the Exclusive Manufaktur Leather Interior, which offers up to 48 two-tone combinations.

Other Technical Changes

Other noteworthy changes include a sports exhaust system with silver tailpipes for enhanced acoustics. A Braking System from the previous GTS, Porsche’s Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) to improve traction, Ceramic Composite Brakes, rear-wheel steering and PASM Sport Suspension complimenting the 20-inch front/21 inch rear wheels.

But the biggest change with this iteration of the Carrera S is the fact it’s no longer available with a 6-speed manual. Something that was an option on all previous Carrera S options, but is now exclusive to the GT3 and T models. Now while this will make the car less appealing to keen drivers, it makes the car easier to handle and faster.

Higher Performance and Price

Like all 911s, the Carrera S engine is slung out way behind the rear axle. It’s the same 3.0l twin-turbo flat 6 that’s been used in the 911 for almost a decade. However, Porsche have fettled the Flat-6 with new turbochargers and optimised the charge–air cooling system. The result is more efficiency, 390 lb-ft of torque and 473 horsepower.

That’s 30 more horsepower than the 992.1 Carrera S. Couple that with the eight-speed PDK gearbox, the Sport Chrono Package and the rear-slung engine and the results are immediate. With launch control engaged, this car sprints from 0-62mph in just 3.1 seconds, quicker than a lot of supercars and a top speed of 191mph.

Yet as always with a 911, the power is manageable and usable, a proper no-nonsense sports car. Yet with a base price of $146,400 for the Coupé and $159,600 for the Cabriolet, (excluding a $1,995 delivery fee), it’s very reasonable. For a car that is easy to use, efficient, fast yet is still the king of sports cars.

The Perfect 911 for Everyone

When it comes to rivals, the Carrera S only has one, the mid-range AMG GT 55. This mid-range variant of AMG’s 911 rival has a lot more torque, all-wheel-drive, a higher top speed and a more dramatic noise. However that being said the Porsche is lighter, has quicker acceleration and is slightly more powerful.

We at F1rst Motors promise to bring a comparison between these two sports cars in the future when the Carrera S lands in Dubai. Until then, the Carrera S represents the ideal 911 for everyone. One that is fast and accessible, efficient yet simple, exotic but not too expensive. The perfect 911 for everyone.

F1rstMotors Facts and Figures

Manufacturer	Porsche AG
Model	911 (992.2) Carrera S
Year of Release	2025
Engine	3.0l Twin-Turbo Flat-6
Horsepower	473 horsepower
Torque	390 lb–ft
0–62mph (100km/h)	3.1 seconds (predicted)
Top Speed	191mph (307 km/h)
Weight	1,490kg (1.5 tonnes)
Power to Weight	262 hp per tonne
Gearbox	8–speed PDK Dual Clutch
Driven Wheels	Rear-Wheel-Drive
Rivals	Mercedes-AMG GT 55

Source: Porsche AG