More power and improved economy
The vehicles presented for our testing were Carrera S models, which meant they were more powerful than the standard 911 Carrera; they were also more powerful than their 2011 equivalent. The new-generation 911 Carrera S derives its authority from a smaller 6-cylinder boxer engine, which is also more fuel efficient.
The new powerplant displaces 3.4L rather than last year’s 3.6. The smaller mill expends 400 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Power flows through either a 7-speed manual transmission – an industry first – or a 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) automated double-clutch transmission.
Both of these gearboxes embrace cutting-edge technology and serve to keep the potent monster behind the rear seat at its angriest when power is needed. And when called upon to deliver, it does so in a most enraged and enthralling manner – especially if the ‘loud’ button is activated, opening up the exhaust to reduce back pressure.
But the new 911 Carrera S has its civil moments as well.
Reasonably quiet and fuel efficient
When the driver-adjustable suspension damping is in its normal setting and the ‘loud’ button has been ignored, the Carrera S is a notably refined, reasonably decent riding coupe. Long journeys can be undertaken without the need for earplugs and extra cushioning.
Such excursions may also cost less, thanks to the improved efficiency of the new generation, which is rated at 8.2L/100km in combined city and highway driving. Although our heavy-footed driving failed to achieve such rewards, at the 9.2L/100km range for most of the highway excursion, we weren’t far off.
6th generation wrap
The latest generation of the 911 Carrera S is a formidable, relentless assassin when the need – ahem, desire – arises. It’s also a compassionate, civilized companion capable of fulfilling the daily grind. It’s these juxtaposing character traits that make it so appealing.
Yes, it has its shortcomings – such as rear-seat room, button-mania and road noise – but it’s still an exotic piece of machinery that performs on the outer reaches of reality with the push of a button.
The vehicles presented for our testing were Carrera S models, which meant they were more powerful than the standard 911 Carrera; they were also more powerful than their 2011 equivalent. The new-generation 911 Carrera S derives its authority from a smaller 6-cylinder boxer engine, which is also more fuel efficient.
The new powerplant displaces 3.4L rather than last year’s 3.6. The smaller mill expends 400 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Power flows through either a 7-speed manual transmission – an industry first – or a 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) automated double-clutch transmission.
Both of these gearboxes embrace cutting-edge technology and serve to keep the potent monster behind the rear seat at its angriest when power is needed. And when called upon to deliver, it does so in a most enraged and enthralling manner – especially if the ‘loud’ button is activated, opening up the exhaust to reduce back pressure.
But the new 911 Carrera S has its civil moments as well.
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| The new powerplant displaces 3.4L rather than last year’s 3.6. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
Reasonably quiet and fuel efficient
When the driver-adjustable suspension damping is in its normal setting and the ‘loud’ button has been ignored, the Carrera S is a notably refined, reasonably decent riding coupe. Long journeys can be undertaken without the need for earplugs and extra cushioning.
Such excursions may also cost less, thanks to the improved efficiency of the new generation, which is rated at 8.2L/100km in combined city and highway driving. Although our heavy-footed driving failed to achieve such rewards, at the 9.2L/100km range for most of the highway excursion, we weren’t far off.
6th generation wrap
The latest generation of the 911 Carrera S is a formidable, relentless assassin when the need – ahem, desire – arises. It’s also a compassionate, civilized companion capable of fulfilling the daily grind. It’s these juxtaposing character traits that make it so appealing.
Yes, it has its shortcomings – such as rear-seat room, button-mania and road noise – but it’s still an exotic piece of machinery that performs on the outer reaches of reality with the push of a button.
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