Here’s the deal: If you’re trying to find the sweet spot in the 911 lineup—the one that balances brawler performance with civilized manners—this is it. The Carrera S has always been the goldilocks pick, and for 2025, Porsche doubled down on what made it work: turbo grunt, classic handling, and just enough tech to keep things sharp without getting in your face.
It’s not the loudest 911. It’s not the most expensive. But it’s the one I’d throw in my garage if I could only pick one. Let’s unpack the details and see why.
Engine and Performance Specs
Under the rear deck lid sits a flat-six that’s as responsive as it is refined. Porsche’s turbocharged 3.0-liter has been slightly tweaked for the 2025 model year—not a full overhaul, but just enough polish to keep it punchy.
💥 Powertrain Table
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-six |
| Horsepower | 473 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 420 lb-ft @ 2,300–5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed PDK (7-speed manual optional) |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| 0–60 mph | 3.1 seconds (PDK, Sport Chrono) |
| Top Speed | 190 mph |
| Fuel Economy | ~20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway |
You get instant shove, no waiting around. Power delivery is linear, throttle response is scalpel-sharp, and with the PDK, every gear change hits like it’s reading your damn mind. If you’re a manual purist, Porsche’s still got your back with a 7-speed stick—rare as hell these days.
Handling: Point. Shoot. Smile.
This is where the 911 earns its paycheck. Balance is still its middle name, and in 2025, Porsche adds some nice chassis tweaks. You’ve got rear-axle steering (optional), adaptive PASM dampers, and torque vectoring—all working together to keep this thing pinned, even when you’re pushing hard.
Here’s what you’re working with:
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- Rear-engine layout still means insane traction out of corners.
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- PASM Sport Suspension drops ride height by 10mm for better stance and sharper bite.
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- Rear-axle steering makes it feel smaller at low speeds and longer at high speeds.
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- Braking is classic Porsche—firm pedal, zero drama, tons of feel.
“You don’t drive this thing—you wear it like a glove.”
Interior: Driver-Focused with Class
If you’re expecting spaceship screens and Tesla minimalism, turn around. This cabin is all about you—the driver. The center tach is back (praise be), now flanked by slim digital displays, and the steering wheel controls are finally intuitive.
🛠️ Cabin Highlights
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- Sport seats with deep bolstering and optional 18-way adjustability
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- 10.9″ touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay + Android Auto
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- Optional Burmester sound system that punches well above its weight
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- Rear seats that are… well, there. Technically.
It’s still premium Porsche—soft leather, clean metalwork, everything feeling solid and just-so. And the tech stays out of your way when you’re focused on the next apex.
Exterior & Dimensions
This refresh doesn’t reinvent the 911 look, but let’s be honest—it didn’t need it. The 2025 Carrera S is tighter, leaner, and a touch more aggressive than the outgoing model. Look closely and you’ll spot new lighting elements, reshaped intakes, and a revised rear diffuser.
📏 Size and Presence
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 177.9 in |
| Width | 72.9 in |
| Height | 51.0 in |
| Wheelbase | 96.5 in |
| Curb Weight | ~3,430 lbs |
| Trunk (Frunk) Space | 4.8 cu ft |
It’s still unmistakably 911—low, wide, planted—and from any angle, it looks like it’s itching to be driven hard.
Tech & Safety: It’s All There If You Want It
The 2025 model brings in some light updates to Porsche’s PCM infotainment, plus a handful of new driver assist tools. You’ll get:
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- Adaptive cruise with lane centering
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- Traffic jam assist
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- Night vision assist (optional)
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- Front and rear parking sensors with 360° cam
Is it as tech-heavy as a Benz? Nope. But it gives you just enough without watering down the driving experience.
Pricing and Value
Let’s talk numbers—because while the Carrera S ain’t cheap, it’s also not out of reach for what it delivers.
💸 Pricing Breakdown
| Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| 911 Carrera S | $146,400 |
| Sport Chrono Package | ~$2,500 |
| Rear-Axle Steering | ~$2,000 |
| PASM Sport Suspension | ~$1,500 |
| Manual Transmission Option | No extra cost (bless) |
| Carbon Ceramic Brakes | ~$8,500 |
Load it up with the good stuff and you’re looking at $160k+—but compared to some of the bloated competition in this price range, it’s honestly still a bargain.
Verdict: Jake’s Call
The 2025 911 Carrera S might be the smartest play in the 911 catalog. It’s got real performance, real daily drivability, and just enough edge to keep it interesting on every drive. Whether you’re tracking it, carving a canyon, or hitting Costco for beer and brake fluid—it can handle it.
“The Carrera S is the one you get when you know what you’re doing.”
It’s the people’s Porsche for drivers who still give a damn about feel, balance, and rear-wheel-drive fun.