Porsche 911 Expert Review

A Porsche 911 is unmistakable on the road, with its instantly recognisable silhouette, oval headlamps and round tail-lamps. It uses staggered wheel sizes, front and rear, there are plenty of optional cosmetic add ons, and higher performance versions feature more aggressive aerodynamics packages. Some may find it too subtle looking for the asking price, though.

The 911 is now a two-seater as standard, though rear seats can be added at no cost in most variants. The driving position is near perfect, with great visibility and superb ergonomics. Quality is impeccable and here too there are many options to enhance the interior’s appearance. The 135-litre front boot can easily carry a couple of weekend bags.

There are several flat six engines on offer, ranging from a 394hp, 3.0 twin-turbo, to a 543hp, 3.6 hybrid, to a naturally aspirated 4.0 that revs to 9,500rpm, each with its own unique appeal. While the Carrera has sufficient performance, it’s not quite as effortless as higher models; the GTS t-hybrid and Turbo S models pack near-supercar performance. The GT3 RS and ST, however, deliver a race-car like high-revving experience, uncorrupted by turbocharging.

While fuel economy is not the priority in any sportscar, the Porsche 911 mileage is not as low as you might think. On the WLTP cycle, the 911 Carrera is rated at 9.66kpl, the GTS t-hybrid at 9.34kpl, the Turbo S at 8.23kpl and the GT3 RS at 7.58kpl.

Apart from the track-focused 911 GT3 RS, the Porsche 911 is relatively comfortable over bumps. Adaptive dampers are standard, making it a surprisingly competent everyday car or long-distance tourer. The nose-lift kit is essential for India, though. Handling is the 911’s highlight with a uniquely rearward weight bias and sharp steering. It’s easy to get used to and immensely rewarding to master.

The Porsche 911 price in India has gone up in recent years with even the base model now costing Rs 2.11 crore before options, the GTS costing Rs 2.83 crore and rare models like the ST going past Rs 4 crore. However, it boasts of a variety that no other sportscar offers, and there is truly a 911 for everyone. No matter which you choose, the driving experience comes first and it is sublime, whether on a track, or in everyday use.

Porsche is infamous for its options lists, and that’s the case here too. While even the basic 911 is well equipped with the likes of a 12.6in touchscreen, digital dials, navigation, Matrix LED headlamps, leather upholstery and 8-speaker audio, you can add several lakhs worth of options. On the safety front a rear-view camera, front and rear park sensors, 6 airbags and ISOFIX mounts are standard.