2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S Review: 473 HP, 2.8s

The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S stands out as a benchmark in the sports car world, combining ferocious acceleration, precise handling, and surprising comfort for daily use. With a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine producing 473 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, it elevates the standard Carrera’s capabilities while remaining approachable.

Engine Power and Acceleration Excellence

At the heart of the Carrera S lies a refined 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine, upgraded with larger turbochargers and intercoolers borrowed from the previous GTS model. This setup boosts output to 473 hp and 390 lb-ft, a significant jump of 85 hp and 59 lb-ft over the base 911’s 388 hp and 331 lb-ft. The power delivery feels linear and explosive, pulling strongly from low revs to the redline.

Independent testing confirms its prowess: 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds using launch control in Sport Plus mode, with minimal wheelspin thanks to the rear-wheel-drive layout and grippy tires. The quarter-mile comes in at 11.0 seconds at 126.9 mph, outpacing the prior rear-wheel-drive GTS. Top speed exceeds 190 mph, making it a true supercar contender.

Chassis Dynamics and Suspension Tuning

Porsche’s engineering shines in the Carrera S’s chassis. Standard adaptive dampers, now with updated hydraulic tuning, offer greater bandwidth for improved compliance over bumps while sharpening responses. The optional PASM Sport suspension lowers the ride height by 10 mm, enhancing stability without sacrificing ride quality.

On twisty roads, the car exhibits remarkable poise, achieving 1.03 g on the skidpad and a 22.8-second figure-eight lap—0.5 seconds quicker than the prior GTS. Rear-axle steering (optional) adds nimbleness, making the substantial 911 feel agile despite its size. Body control is exemplary, minimizing weight transfer during aggressive cornering.

• Key Handling Features: Brake-based torque vectoring standard; progressive steering ratio for precision; wide 20/21-inch wheels with summer tires for massive grip.
• Adaptive dampers adjust in real-time, gliding over expansion joints yet firming up for high-speed stability.
• Ride balance suits both canyon carving and highway cruising, with excellent visibility from the upright cabin.

Braking Performance and Safety

Upgraded brakes—six-piston 16.1-inch fronts and four-piston 15.0-inch rears from the outgoing GTS—deliver confident stops: 60-0 mph in 95 feet, beating the base model by 4 feet. From 70 mph, it halts in 140 feet; 100-0 mph in 282 feet, with fade-free performance. These steel units are responsive, quiet, and easy to modulate in traffic.

Advanced aids like Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and optional rear-axle steering enhance safety without intruding on the driving experience.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission shifts with lightning speed, enabling the rapid acceleration figures. Upshifts are instantaneous; downshifts proactive, even without driver input. While a manual is no longer offered, the PDK proves nearly flawless, rivaling the best in the segment. Rear-wheel drive keeps the purist character alive, with precise traction control.

Design and Aerodynamics

The 992.2 facelift brings subtle refinements: sharper headlights, revised bumpers for better aero, and active front vents. The Carrera S’s dimensions balance sportiness and usability—longer wheelbase aids stability, while the low-slung profile evokes classic 911 heritage. Larger wheels and quad exhaust tips distinguish it visually.

Interior updates include a fully digital dash (a point of contention for analog fans) and physical climate controls amid screens. Visibility remains a 911 strength, with high-set seating.

Practicality for Daily Driving

Despite supercar creds, the Carrera S excels as an everyday vehicle. The suspension absorbs urban imperfections, and the cabin stays composed. Fuel economy hovers around 20 mpg combined (estimated), suitable for commutes. Storage includes front trunk and rear seats for small items.

It’s larger and more user-friendly than predecessors, dominating lanes confidently yet parking easily.

Pricing and Value Proposition

Starting around $130,000, the Carrera S commands a premium over the base Carrera, justified by power gains and standard equipment like torque vectoring and larger brakes. Options like PASM Sport and rear steering add meaningfully but inflate costs quickly. It slots below the hybrid GTS, offering pure internal combustion thrill.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Explosive acceleration; superior handling and braking; refined ride; iconic flat-six sound; daily usability.
• Cons: High price; no manual option; digital gauges lack analog charm; pricey options.

Competitor Comparison

Against rivals like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 or BMW M4 Competition, the Carrera S offers unmatched refinement and balance. Its 2.8-second 0-60 edges the Corvette, while handling rivals exotics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S rear-wheel drive?

Yes, it’s rear-wheel drive standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims.

What is the fuel economy of the Carrera S?

Expect around 18-20 mpg combined, per EPA estimates for similar models.

Does it have a manual transmission?

No, only the eight-speed PDK automatic is offered.

How does it compare to the GTS?

The S is quicker in some tests and cheaper, lacking hybrid tech.

Is the ride comfortable for daily use?

Absolutely, adaptive dampers provide a compliant ride over most surfaces.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S is an everyday supercar masterpiece—faster, sharper, and more livable than ever. It proves Porsche’s evolution: incremental yet transformative.