Porsche's Game-Changer: The First Hybrid 911 Packs 532 HP and a Hefty Price Tag
May 28, 2024 at 9:30am ET
Porsche has always been known for pushing boundaries, and the latest update to the 992-chassis 911 is no exception. With the introduction of the 2025 Carrera GTS, Porsche is making a significant leap into the hybrid realm, merging traditional prowess with cutting-edge technology. The result? A stunning 911 variant that delivers a powerful 532 horsepower and an impressive 449 pound-feet of torque, all thanks to its new hybrid system. But be prepared to shell out a pretty penny, as this marvel starts at $166,895.
A New Heart for a New Era
Under the hood, the Carrera GTS bids farewell to the older 3.0-liter flat-six and introduces a robust 3.6-liter flat-six. This engine alone churns out 478 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, already an improvement over its predecessor. However, the true magic lies in the hybrid system. By ditching the twin-turbo setup and incorporating a single electric turbocharger powered by an 11-kW motor, turbo lag becomes a thing of the past. This motor ensures rapid spin-up for the turbo, providing instant power while also channeling energy back into the 400-volt battery.
Power at Every Turn
The Carrera GTS boasts a 32.6-hp traction motor strategically placed between the engine and the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. This small yet mighty motor draws from a compact 1.9-kWh battery located under the front hood, traditionally occupied by the 12-volt battery in other 911 models. The 12-volt unit has now been relocated to a compartment behind the rear parcel shelf. The T-Hybrid system aims to enhance performance across the entire rev range while maintaining an optimal air-fuel ratio.
The total weight of the new Carrera GTS has increased by 103 pounds compared to its predecessor. However, the additional power more than makes up for this slight bump in weight. This hybrid marvel is the first 911 Carrera model to achieve a sub-3-second 0-60 mph sprint, clocking in at a blistering 2.9 seconds.
Enhanced Aerodynamics and Styling
The 2025 Carrera GTS doesn't just shine under the hood. Porsche has integrated new active aerodynamic flaps at the front to optimize cooling without sacrificing drag efficiency. The front and rear fascias have received styling updates, new wheel options are available, and the rear tires have been widened to 315/30ZR21, while the front tires remain at 245/35ZR20. Inside, the most notable change is the all-digital gauge cluster, signifying the end of the analog tachometer. Despite this modern update, the digital cluster keeps the tach front and center, staying true to the 911’s heritage.
Updates Across the Board
For 2025, not just the Carrera GTS but also the base Carrera sees notable updates. The base Carrera now features the turbos and intercoolers from the previous GTS and Turbo models, gaining a nine-hp increase while retaining the same torque at 331 lb-ft. Though the base Carrera also undergoes the same facelift, it won't include the active cooling flaps seen in the GTS variant.
Porsche will initially offer the base Carrera as a rear-wheel drive coupe or Cabriolet, while the GTS comes in a variety of configurations: rear- or all-wheel drive coupe or Cabriolet, and an all-wheel drive Targa. As 2025 progresses, expect more models to join the lineup, including the Turbo, Turbo S, and the adrenaline-pumping GT3 RS.
Price Increase Justified
As with any major update, pricing has seen a noticeable bump. The base Carrera now starts at $122,095, up from $116,050, and the GTS sees an increase from $152,550 to $166,895. Porsche attributes these price hikes to the enhanced performance and the inclusion of more standard equipment, particularly in the GTS variant.
Expect the facelifted 992 Carreras to hit showrooms this fall, with the Carrera GTS following closely behind towards the end of the year. With Porsche's promise of more hybrid and conventional models on the horizon, the 992.2 range is set to expand, offering enthusiasts a plethora of options to choose from.