New Carrera 4S adds to comprehensive 911 lineup
Porsche is expanding an already mind-bogglingly diverse 911 lineup with the latest Carrera 4S, a model that combines the security of all-wheel-drive with the more powerful version of the 3.0-liter turbocharged flat-six engine.
The ‘4S’ guise comes as a coupe, cabriolet, or Targa, so buyers need not be limited to just a single 911 body style. Porsche promises a “significant boost in emotionality” for this new powertrain when compared to previous models, and that’s saying a lot for a sports car that thrills even in base form.
Half Of 911 S Customers Choose All-Wheel Drive
Porsche says that 50% of buyers who go for an S variant of its most iconic sports car choose AWD, especially in regions with more varied climates or difficult road conditions. For these new 4S models, Porsche says the system maintains a rear-biased character, which enthusiasts will appreciate.
When necessary, the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system will deliver more torque to the front axle, enhancing stability and traction. There has been an adjustment to the gear ratio, but the setup is otherwise familiar from other 911 AWD derivatives.
Plenty Of Power, But No Manual
All three 911 4S models get a 473-hp version of the flat-six mill, which is 30 hp up on their predecessors, but not as powerful as the hybrid flat-fix in the latest GTS, which sits above the 4S in the 911 lineup. An optimized intercooler system from the 911 Turbo has helped free up the extra horses.
Unfortunately, Porsche is not offering a manual with the 4S models, not that the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic is anything but superb. This lightning-fast transmission will help the 4S coupe hit 60 mph in only 3.3 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 191 mph. If you want a manual, you’ll have to go for the cheaper and less powerful Carrera T (388 hp) or cough up over $220k for the track-focused GT3.
The Carrera 4S Cabriolet is only slightly slower than the coupe (0-60 in 3.5 seconds), and while a time was not provided for the Targa, it should be no slower than the cabriolet. This is also the 60th anniversary year of the 911 Targa, which offers the most distinctive design and a perfect balance between the coupe and open-air cabrio.
Related: The Most Intricate Porsche 911 GT3 Ever Made Is A Masterclass In Understatement
More Standard Equipment, But Expensive Options Remain
No 911 is known for a lengthy list of standard features, but Porsche has seen fit to introduce some improvements in this area. These 4S models come with 20-/21-inch staggered wheels with a new design, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, a sports exhaust, and a more powerful braking system from the GTS. For the Targa, rear-wheel steering is standard.
Wireless smartphone charging, lane departure warning, matrix LED headlights, and a leather package are also standard. However, expect to pay much more for the best upholstery choices and Porsche’s full range of tech features.
Pricing for the new 4S models has not yet been made available, but the 4S Coupe will be priced between the Carrera S and GTS, so an MSRP of between $150k and $155k seems likely. The Cabriolet and Targa versions will be a little pricier.
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