The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S has officially been unveiled, bringing a mix of exciting upgrades and controversial changes to the iconic sports car lineup. Positioned between the base Carrera and the newly hybridized GTS models, the Carrera S offers enhanced performance, luxurious refinements, and cutting-edge technology. However, purists may be disappointed by the absence of a manual transmission.
Powertrain and Performance Enhancements
Under the hood, the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S is powered by a revised 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine. Delivering an impressive 473 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, this marks a 30-horsepower increase from its predecessor. Notably, these numbers match the previous GTS model, making the Carrera S a compelling option for performance enthusiasts.
The addition of new turbochargers and upgraded intercoolers has improved both performance and emissions. With the optional Sport Chrono Package, the Carrera S achieves a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds quicker than the outgoing model. While the seven-speed manual transmission is no longer available, the eight-speed dual-clutch PDK ensures seamless and lightning-fast gear shifts.
Enhanced Mechanical Features
Porsche has equipped the 2025 Carrera S with several mechanical upgrades to elevate the driving experience. Borrowing the larger brakes from the previous GTS, the car features 408 mm discs at the front and 380 mm discs at the rear. The dampers have also been refined for improved ride quality, while standard features include a limited-slip differential and staggered 20/21-inch wheels.
For those seeking additional performance options, the Carrera S offers rear-wheel steering, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a lower, firmer sports suspension.
Luxury Meets Technology in the Interior
Inside, the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S blends luxury and technology seamlessly. The cabin now features additional leather-trimmed components, with an available Exclusive Manufaktur Leather Interior package offering 48 unique color combinations. A new digital gauge cluster replaces traditional dials, and a push-button engine start adds modern convenience.
The coupe comes standard as a two-seater, with rear seats available at no extra cost. The Cabriolet retains its 2+2 configuration. These thoughtful touches ensure that the Carrera S remains both functional and luxurious.
Pricing and Availability
The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S is priced at $161,695 for the cabriolet and $148,395 for the coupe . The deliveries are expected to start in Spring of 2025. With additional variants, including the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4S and Targa models, anticipated in the near future, Porsche enthusiasts will have plenty of options to choose from.
What’s Missing: The Manual Transmission
One of the most polarizing changes to the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S is the removal of the manual transmission. This leaves only the Carrera T and GT3 models as manual options within the 911 lineup. While the dual-clutch PDK offers undeniable performance benefits, many enthusiasts lament the loss of the engaging manual driving experience that has long been a hallmark of the 911.
Conclusion
The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S pushes the boundaries of performance and luxury while embracing modern advancements. With its powerful engine, enhanced features, and refined interior, it’s poised to be a top contender in the sports car market. However, the absence of a manual transmission may make purists look elsewhere. Whether you prioritize speed, luxury, or driving dynamics, the new Carrera S offers plenty to excite. Will this bold move redefine the future of the 911? Only time will tell.