2025 Porsche 911 Carrera: A Blend of Performance and Innovation
It may not quite look or feel like it, but the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera (992.2-generation) is nearly a 992.1-generation GTS under its engine cover. You might wonder why it’s only 9 hp stronger than last year’s Carrera? The answer involves a significant emissions-compliance strategy. Porsche is preparing for the new Euro 7 emissions regulations, which will take effect at the start of 2027. These regulations impose stricter limits that essentially eliminate the full-throttle fuel enrichment previously used to control combustion and exhaust temperatures.
To prevent a reduction in power, torque, and performance, the Carrera is receiving some enhancements. Meanwhile, the GTS itself is also overhauled for the 992.2 generation, now becoming the first-ever electrified 911. Be sure to check the latest about the GTS hybrid engine development.
911 Turbo Intercooler, GTS Turbos
With higher fuel levels aiding the cooling of the combustion chamber, the Carrera’s engine can utilize more aggressive spark advance. Reducing this to prevent engine knocking, without the extra fuel, leads to decreased power. The solution? Increase the air intake to legally accommodate more fuel and employ a large intercooler for cooling. The base 2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera features an intercooler adapted from the 911 Turbo and larger turbos originally used in the GTS. These modifications allow for increased airflow into the 3.0-liter engine, resulting in 388 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque.
Slight Performance Bump
Porsche claims that the 2025 911 Carrera 992.2 model will accelerate to 60 mph 0.1 seconds faster than its predecessor, which had previously achieved this in 4.0 seconds; the Sport Chrono package reduces this to 3.8 seconds (add 0.2 seconds for the heavier cabriolet model). Additionally, top speed has increased slightly to 294 kph (183 mph).
What About Fuel Economy?
While EPA testing is still pending, significant improvements in fuel economy are not expected. Historically, the 911 has not required wide-open throttle to complete the FTP 75 test cycle, so similar outcomes can be anticipated. However, those who primarily utilize their 911 for track days may find themselves making fewer trips to the gas station, thereby achieving lower emissions.
What Else Changes?
The exterior of the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera has received a refresh, featuring new fascias and advanced LED Matrix headlamp units. This redesign enables slightly larger outer air inlets, improving the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Additionally, a new AeroKit option incorporates a front spoiler lip, specialized side skirts, and a lighter fixed rear wing, enhancing downforce while affecting drag minimally.
Inside, options for rear seats have changed, and the instrument cluster has been replaced with a 12.6-inch all-digital display offering seven design choices. For the first time in a 911, a start button is positioned to the left of the steering wheel, with the drive-mode switch integrated into the wheel. Furthermore, Apple CarPlay is now more effectively integrated, displaying information on the instrument cluster. The new center-console features include a cooled storage compartment for phones, complete with a 15-watt inductive charger.
When and How Much?
Order banks are opening for rear-drive coupe and cabriolet models, with deliveries scheduled to begin in fall 2024. The base model 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera 992.2 coupe starts at $122,095, while the Cabriolet begins at $133,400. These prices reflect a $6,000 increase, largely offset by $3,440 worth of previously optional equipment now made standard. As always, buyers should consider the aftermarket opportunities that may arise, potentially enhancing the performance of the GTS turbos without compliance concerns.
