Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Part 1: Design Review

A full 45 years in the making, the latest evolution of the Porsche 911 is here. On the surface, it isn't significantly different from the previous version of this perennial sportscar. After all, the new 911 is really a mid-term update of its predecessor: the 997-model Porsche 911 Carrera. Around since the 2005 model year, that 997-based 911 was significant in that, among other things, it represented a stylistic return to form for the rear-engined Porsche.

The 997 answered criticisms of the 996's bland styling by drawing inspiration from the much-loved and curvaceously delicious 993-model - the last of the air-cooled 911s. Now, this newest 997 - version 2.0 if you will - further cleans up the look of the 911, looking at once more classic and more modern.

While most of the improvements to this second generation 997-based 911 have been made under its aluminum and steel skin (and they are extensive), our Carrera 4S test car highlights the subtle, yet effective styling touches that enhance the classic Porsche shape to best effect.

Starting at the front, we see the beautifully shaped elliptical headlamps that made a welcome comeback on the first 997. Beautifully detailed, they now feature an optional dynamic cornering system that allows the low-beams to swivel up to 15 degrees as you corner. Below the standard Bi-Xenon lamps, you'll instantly notice the strip of LED daytime running lights that illuminate and intimidate in equal measure. Those LEDs and the turn indicators crown the enlarged lateral openings that flow much more cleanly with the rest of the 911's front-end graphics.

In side view, we gaze upon what is arguably the most classic sportscar shape in the entire automotive universe. The 911 silhouette is completely modern in its latest iteration, while somehow looking exactly the same as the earliest 911s. It's only when you see an older one next to the modern version that the differences become glaring. While these cars are evolutionary in design, a current 997-based 911 will age even a recent 996 when viewed side by side. Refined and enhanced in each successive generation, the 911 represents the epitome of great design. The simple 19-in. wheels, while sportscar correct with their split five-spoke design, aren't among the most creative of Porsche's designs, but they look good nonetheless and they finish off the Carrera's stance nicely.

Around the rear we get the best view of those gorgeous wide hips that are also a 911 trademark. Slightly wider on the 4S model, the rear fenders combine with those in front to provide the Carrera with a thin-waisted, coke-bottle shape that will elevate your blood pressure in a second. We also find more LED lights housed within an elegantly shaped lens that lends the car a dynamic feel. Exclusive to the 4S models is the full-width reflective strip that ties the two taillights together in a nostalgic nod to past 911s. The lower bumper features another 911 element from the past in the unfortunate "bumperettes" that bookend the license plate pocket. No doubt they help the Carrera avoid significant damage in very light parking "misjudgments," but like a naughty thought in church, you just don't want them there. Luckily, the quad stainless steel exhaust tips will steal your attention from them instantly - especially if they're emitting music from that flat six.

With a ride height that is lower than that of a base 911 and with its subtle width enhancement of just under 2-in., the clean lines of the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S - uncluttered by wings or spoilers - make it, in my estimation, the best looking example of the current 911 species.

Watch the video
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Performance
- Acceleration: Hard to believe this car is powered by a normally aspirated six... SO QUICK! - huge grip from AWD means it's hard to launch hard without being abusive, though
- Handling: Precise and accurate once you get used to its peculiar feel - prefers a clean, proper approach versus any tomfoolery - practice your drifting elsewhere!
- Braking: The most stable braking platform in the car biz gets even better thanks to AWD - the optional ceramics are overkill, but no doubt even more amazing

Design
- Exterior: Hard to believe it still looks as good as it does - great 997 "version 2.0" facelift keeps the 911 fresh while somehow still classic - one of the great automotive shapes
- Interior: 997's return to the pre-996 layout was extremely welcomed and addressed the biggest flaw of the 996 - PCM cleans up the center stack and improves things further

Utility
- Comfort: Great in the front, especially for a performance car of this nature - nonexistent in the rear, but everyone knows that
- Space: Boot is deep, but not as handy as a proper trunk - rear parcel shelf (referred to as "rear seats" by Porsche) is quite useful

Safety
- Dynamics: One of the very best stability control systems is as foolproof as you can get - evasive maneuvers a bit tricky as the front-end needs weight transfer to be effective
- Technology: Again, PASM is awesome - add to that PTM and airbags and those brakes and... yeah, it's all here and then some

Value
- Price: Yikes! That is a BIG number... Even for a car like this
- Mileage: Direct injection means that one of the most environmentally friendly sportscars is now even more so - other manufacturers should take note

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: That profile and those hips will make your hairs stand up before you even start it up
- Fun to spank: Spank isn't the right word here. Fun to drive quickly? Absolutely. But it wants to be driven cleanly and quickly, not sideways

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Rear engine / All-wheel drive
Engine: 3.8 liter, Flat-6
Power (SAE): 385 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
Curb Weight: 3263 lbs.
0-60 mph: 4.7 sec.
Top Speed: 185 mph
Mileage: 17 city / 25 highway
Base Price: $93,200
Competitors: Audi R8, BMW M6, Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG