Overview
A review of the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS T-Hybrid highlights its subtle design changes, innovative hybrid powertrain, impressive performance improvements, and overall user experience, with minor critiques centered on traditional design preferences and high price.
Porsche 911 T-Hybrid Introduction
- Porsche introduces the first hybrid 911 with the 992.2 generation Carrera 4 GTS.
- The car combines a re-engineered flat-six engine, one big turbo, and electric motors with a 1.9 kWh battery.
- Exterior changes are minimal, retaining the classic 911 design except for features like new front “shark fin” gills and T-Hybrid badges.
Hybrid System Design and Features
- The battery and electric motors add only about 50 kg and do not affect trunk space or practicality.
- The hybrid system is not plug-in and never drives the car solely on electric power.
- Electric motors are used to keep the turbo spooled, effectively eliminating turbo lag and providing instant response.
Driving Impressions and Performance
- Driving experience is described as instantly responsive, similar to a naturally aspirated engine.
- The engine remains happy at low RPMs without feeling bogged down, unlike twin-turbo versions.
- Rear-wheel steering is standard, maintaining the car’s confident and planted character.
- The hybrid’s impact on weight and packaging is virtually unnoticeable during everyday driving.
Interior and User Experience
- The cabin features a fully digital tachometer and a generic start button, replacing the traditional turnkey ignition.
- Engine starts are smoother and quieter due to the electric starter motor.
- Practicality is retained with unchanged trunk space and rear cargo area; brakes remain strong without the need for expensive carbon ceramics.
Critiques and Observations
- Some aesthetic choices, like disconnected exhaust tips, are criticized given the car’s high price.
- The reviewer expresses preference for older features like the analog tachometer and classic ignition.
Conclusions on the Porsche 911 T-Hybrid
- The hybrid integration is seamless, preserving the traditional 911 driving character.
- Slight improvements in emissions and fuel economy are noted, with no major compromises for most buyers.
- The main drawback is the increasing cost of the 911, though performance and build quality remain exceptional.