The most famous Porsche is the 911 while being a shape that everyone identifies Porsche with. However, the 911 too has had changes to bring in various upgrades while for the first time, the 911 in its GTS variant is now a hybrid. However, the new 911 992.2 facelift also spans across the rest of the 911 range hence, we drove the 911 Carrera to see if the 911 still is the benchmark sports car in today's age.

The facelift 911 992.2 range starts with the Carrera at Rs 2.1 cr and the upgrades include styling tweaks and a revamped interior. The shape is clearly 911 and as you hold the familiar car shaped key and walk towards it, it looks like a proper 911 with the classic proportions although there are some changes when seen closer. The bumper has been tweaked and the DRLs are moved in the headlamp for a cleaner look while the rear too has full length lighting.

There are 19-inch wheels and 20-inch ones at the back while the aero kit here adds Rs 11 lakh while giving it a GT3 like look with the spoiler. The thing about the 911 is that it is free of needless drama which means getting in and out is easy while the driving position is correct along with slim pillars with good visibility. Inside, it's a classic Porsche but the gear selector is now a toggle and the key like starting mechanism has been replaced by a simpler button. The central touchscreen is lovely to use and is crisp in its responses but it is not too cluttered. 

There are many physical buttons too while the steering has a direct drive mode toggle switch below. Standard equipment as you would expect is pretty high with dual-zone climate control, a new 12.6-in digital display for the driver, an 8 speaker audio system, wireless charger, electric sport seats and more. However, with any Porsche the options list is vast and normally you would end up speccing a lot more as also seen on this car which has a huge options list. The new 911 has rear seats too but are too small while being suitable for children for short journeys or best used as a luggage space.

Speaking of which, the 911 has a frunk which fits in much more than you think. The 911 Carrera has a 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six with 394bhp and 450Nm, this car has the sport exhaust and the lift option too. The 911, while being a sports car, is pretty practical and even without the lift you can sail over most speed breakers but when you use the front lift, it is GPS navigation linked which means it will remember to do so next time without you reaching for the button. The steering is light and the gearbox is smooth enough for everyday driving while the engine isn't very noisy either.

 The 8-speed dual clutch is fast but the magic of the 911 is known when you drive it over some empty roads. The 911 is about balance and the steering too feels precise along with great feedback. It feels natural and eager to turn in while still being more playful with its rear engine bias adding some thrill to your driving. It wont bite you but is playful.

This Carrera arguably has more than enough power and the exhaust sounds very good when driven hard too. Compared to other sports cars, this isn't a blunt instrument and feels playful with the typical 911 feel. Sure, these days the power figure of 394bhp may not sound high, but is more than ample and arguably is the perfect sports car for India- at a price, of course.

 

What we like- Looks, quality, practicality, driving experience

 

What we do not- Price