Porsche's 911 Turbo S Returns with Unstoppable Power

The Legacy of the 911 Turbo

Few names in the automotive world spark as much excitement as "Turbo." This moniker has long been associated with the pinnacle of performance from Porsche, particularly within its flagship 911 models. Now, for the 992.2 generation of the 911, the Turbo name is making a triumphant return, signaling the arrival of an all-new flagship model.

The previous 911 Turbo was already a powerhouse, so how does Porsche manage to elevate things even further? We had the opportunity to drive the latest 911 Turbo S and explore what makes this car stand out.

What's New?

The most significant changes in this new generation of the 911 Turbo S are hidden beneath the surface. However, the car is noticeably wider and more focused than ever before, featuring massive rear tires and advanced active aerodynamics. For instance, the front inlets located on either side of the front splitter can open and close depending on driving conditions. During heavy rain, the system automatically shuts them off to keep the brakes dry.

Other notable updates include a revised suspension system and nose-lift technology that activates in seconds, preventing damage from speed bumps. Despite the inclusion of a hybrid system and numerous new features, the Turbo S only weighs 85kg more than its predecessor.

Power Under the Hood

As with all 911 models, the engine isn't under the hood but rather positioned at the back of the car. The 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine is a standout performer, delivering 710bhp—over 50bhp more than the previous model—as well as 900Nm of torque. A clever hybrid system, first introduced in the GTS model, now enhances performance with three e-motors: one on each turbocharger and a third housed within the gearbox. These e-motors help boost power and reduce lag.

Performance figures are nothing short of impressive. The 0-100 km/h sprint takes around 2.5 seconds, while reaching 200 km/h is achieved in just 8.4 seconds. These numbers are matched by a four-wheel-drive system that ensures maximum traction and control.

Driving Experience

The 911 Turbo S has always been known for delivering high performance without being overly aggressive or difficult to handle. Even with its immense power, it remains approachable and easy to drive. Unlike the raw and uncompromising nature of the 911 GT3 RS, the Turbo S feels like a car that could be driven daily.

Despite its powerful acceleration, the Turbo S doesn’t make much noise. The exhaust system has been redesigned, but the most noticeable sound is the spooling of the turbochargers when accelerating.

Design and Appearance

The latest 911 Turbo S looks more aggressive and focused than ever. It retains the classic elements of the Turbo lineage, including the air inlets on the rear side panels. Porsche’s designers have also introduced an exclusive 'Turbonite' paint color, giving the car a modern twist while paying homage to its heritage.

Interior Features

Inside, the Turbo S shares many design elements with the rest of the 992.2 range. The build quality is excellent, with soft-touch materials used throughout. However, the push-button start system might not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer the tactile experience of a key-inspired switch found in other models like the GT3.

Standard seating is two-seater, but rear seats can be added as a no-cost option. While they offer some practicality, they are only suitable for very small children.

Specifications and Pricing

The 911 Turbo S starts at €271,000 / £199,100 for the coupe version, with a Cabriolet variant available at a higher price. The cost reflects the engineering excellence and performance capabilities of the car. Inside, you'll find a large central display with smartphone mirroring systems and a secondary screen for the driver. While the displays are configurable, some might prefer a classic analogue rev counter to enhance the car's character.

Final Thoughts

The 911 Turbo S is back, and it's more powerful than ever. Its performance exceeds expectations, yet it remains accessible to a wide range of drivers. With its all-wheel-drive system, it's a great choice for those seeking year-round performance. While it's not a value-focused proposition, the Turbo S stands as a testament to what's possible with a petrol engine. At nearly £200,000, it's a luxury, but one that delivers unmatched performance and engineering.