Porsche 911 4S: Power, AWD, No Manual

Porsche’s iconic 911 series continues its relentless evolution with the introduction of the 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. This latest iteration signals a significant step into the 992.2 generation, bringing with it a suite of comprehensive updates.

The 911 has long been celebrated for its vast array of variants, effectively offering “something for everyone” within the sports car segment. Consequently, each new generation or significant update invariably ushers in a wave of new models. The Carrera 4S is the newest addition to this revamped series. It now pairs the recently upgraded powertrain of the Carrera S with the enhanced traction of all-wheel drive, alongside a host of additional features designed to elevate the driving experience. However, a notable shift for purists is the confirmation that the PDK dual-clutch transmission is the sole option available, definitively removing the manual gearbox from the 4S lineup.

This strategic move by Porsche reflects ongoing trends in the automotive industry, prioritizing performance, efficiency, and advanced technology. The 2026 911 Carrera 4S aims to blend blistering speed with enhanced all-weather capability, making it a highly desirable option for a wide range of enthusiasts. Its position within the 911 hierarchy, sitting between the rear-wheel-drive Carrera S and the more potent, all-wheel-drive GTS models, is critical.

Porsche data indicates that nearly “half of US buyers opting for an S model choose all-wheel-drive,” underscoring the 4S’s importance as a core part of the 911 range. This updated model promises a refined yet exhilarating driving experience, packed with more of what modern sports car buyers demand, even if it means bidding farewell to a traditional gear lever.

Design Refinements and Interior Enhancements

The 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S receives a comprehensive aesthetic and functional refresh, aligning it with the latest 992.2 updates seen across the broader 911 range. On the exterior, the Carrera 4S proudly displays the new design cues introduced with its rear-wheel-drive Carrera S sibling. These include reshaped bumpers that provide a more aggressive and contemporary stance, enhancing the car’s aerodynamic profile.

Complementing these changes are new lighting units that now come standard with cutting-edge Matrix LED technology. This advanced lighting system not only improves visibility and safety but also gives the 4S a distinctive and modern light signature, both day and night.

Inside the cabin, Porsche has continued its focus on luxury and customization. For the Coupe variant, buyers retain the flexibility to choose between a classic “2-seater layout” or a more practical “2+2 setup” at no additional cost. This allows owners to tailor the interior to their specific needs, whether prioritizing pure driving dynamics or accommodating occasional rear passengers. In contrast, both the Cabriolet and Targa forms of the 4S come standard with rear seats, providing consistent passenger capacity across these open-top and semi-open-top models.

As part of the broader interior refresh that characterizes the 992.2 generation, extended leather trim now comes standard across the board. This significant upgrade elevates the sense of luxury and craftsmanship within the cabin, covering more surfaces with premium materials and enhancing tactile quality throughout. These interior and exterior enhancements collectively ensure the 2026 911 Carrera 4S looks as captivating as it performs, blending timeless 911 design with modern sophistication and comfort.

Power Surge: The Heart of the 4S

The most significant changes to the 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S reside beneath its distinctive rear decklid. The car is powered by a revised twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine. This highly engineered powerplant now delivers an impressive 473 horsepower (353 kW / 480 PS). Peak torque stands at a robust 390 lb-ft. This output precisely matches that of the updated Carrera S model. More importantly, it represents a substantial 30 horsepower increase compared to the pre-facelift Carrera 4S. This power boost ensures that the new 4S offers even more exhilarating acceleration and top-end performance.

This potent engine is exclusively paired with an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. This is a notable point, as “no manual is offered this time around” for the Carrera 4S, a decision that underscores Porsche’s commitment to the PDK’s efficiency and lightning-fast gear changes. The advanced transmission meticulously sends power to all four wheels via Porsche’s sophisticated rear-biased Traction Management (PTM) system. This intelligent all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal grip and power delivery in varying driving conditions, from dry, grippy tarmac to more challenging wet or low-traction surfaces.

The PTM setup is engineered for precision, incorporating a water-cooled front differential and an electromechanically controlled clutch. These components work in harmony to ensure exceptionally precise power distribution between the front and rear axles, maximizing both performance and stability. The combination of increased power and a highly refined all-wheel-drive system positions the 2026 Carrera 4S as a formidable and remarkably capable sports car.

Enhanced Standard Equipment and Optional Upgrades

Beyond the raw power and sophisticated drivetrain, Porsche has significantly bolstered the standard equipment list for the 2026 911 Carrera 4S, offering more value and enhanced performance right out of the box. All 4S models now come equipped with the desirable Sport Exhaust system, identifiable by its elegant silver tailpipes. This not only amplifies the characteristic flat-six engine note, providing a more engaging auditory experience, but also contributes to the car’s sporty aesthetic.

Furthermore, the braking system has received a notable upgrade. The new 4S models feature upgraded brakes borrowed from the previous-generation GTS, indicating a substantial improvement in stopping power and thermal management. This is a crucial enhancement for a car with increased performance capabilities. Rounding out the standard performance enhancements are revised dampers. These updated components promise improved responsiveness from the chassis and a more composed ride across various road surfaces, blending dynamic agility with enhanced comfort for daily driving or longer journeys.

For discerning buyers seeking to further customize and enhance their 911 Carrera 4S, Porsche offers a comprehensive range of optional upgrades. The highly popular Sport Chrono Package remains available, which typically includes dynamic engine mounts, a mode switch on the steering wheel, and a launch control function, optimizing the car for maximum performance. Enthusiasts looking for a more aggressive stance and sharper handling can opt for the PASM Sport Suspension, which features a lower ride height. This option further refines the car’s aerodynamics and cornering capabilities.

Rear axle steering is another advanced option that enhances agility at lower speeds and stability at higher speeds, making the car feel even more nimble and planted; notably, this feature is standard on the Targa 4S, highlighting its specific performance tuning. Finally, for those who demand the ultimate in braking performance and track capability, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are available. These lightweight, high-performance brakes provide enhanced stopping power and exceptional fade resistance, making them ideal for spirited driving and track days. These optional packages allow owners to tailor their Carrera 4S to their precise driving preferences and performance aspirations.

Performance Metrics: Speed and Acceleration

The 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S delivers truly impressive performance figures, reflecting its increased power and refined dynamics. When equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, which includes launch control functionality, the Carrera 4S can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0–96 km/h) in a blistering 3.1 seconds. This acceleration time is remarkable for a road car and showcases the effectiveness of the updated engine, quick-shifting PDK transmission, and efficient all-wheel-drive system.

To put this into perspective, this makes the new 4S two-tenths quicker than the standard Carrera S, demonstrating the tangible benefit of its enhanced power and all-wheel-drive traction. Furthermore, its acceleration is impressively close to that of the more powerful GTS models, being “just two-tenths shy of the GTS”. This places the 4S firmly in the realm of high-performance sports cars.

Beyond raw acceleration, the 2026 Carrera 4S boasts a formidable top speed of 191 mph (307 km/h). This top-end capability underscores the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and the sustained power delivery of its twin-turbo flat-six engine. Whether launching from a standstill or pushing towards its Vmax, the 911 Carrera 4S is engineered to deliver a thrilling and capable performance, ensuring that its increased power translates directly into superior speed and dynamic prowess. These performance metrics solidify its position as a high-tier offering within the refreshed 911 lineup.

Pricing and Market Availability

For enthusiasts eager to experience the enhanced performance and luxurious upgrades of the 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, the good news is that orders are already open in the US. This allows prospective buyers to configure their dream 4S and get their name on the list early. Porsche anticipates that first deliveries will commence in the fourth quarter of the year, meaning customers can expect to take delivery of their new sports car towards the end of 2025.

As of now, official pricing hasn’t been confirmed just yet by Porsche. This slight delay in final pricing is attributed to “pending tariff decisions,” which could potentially influence the final cost of the vehicle by the time it reaches dealerships. However, early estimates provide a clear indication of its positioning within the 911 hierarchy. The Coupe variant is expected to start around $154,200. The more open-air Cabriolet is estimated at $167,400. Finally, the iconic and stylish Targa model is projected to be roughly $169,000.

These estimated prices strategically place the new 4S “squarely between the $146,400 Carrera S and the $169,800 GTS.” This pricing strategy reflects the 4S’s enhanced performance, all-wheel-drive capability, and elevated standard equipment compared to the Carrera S, while maintaining a clear differentiation from the higher-performance GTS models. Despite potential fluctuations due to tariffs, the estimated pricing underscores the premium positioning and advanced capabilities of the 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S within the competitive sports car market.

Refined and Potent 911

The 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S arrives as a highly compelling addition to the revered 992.2 generation. It embodies Porsche’s continuous pursuit of automotive excellence, offering a significant leap forward in both power and standard equipment. The substantial 30 hp increase to its twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-six engine, now delivering 473 hp, ensures exhilarating performance.

This is seamlessly managed by the sophisticated eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, which remains the sole gearbox option, prioritizing speed and efficiency. The inclusion of all-wheel drive further enhances its versatility, making it a capable performer in diverse driving conditions.

Beyond raw power, the 4S boasts a host of refined features, including a standard Sport Exhaust system, upgraded brakes from the previous-generation GTS, and revised dampers for a more responsive and composed ride. The subtle yet impactful exterior design changes and the enhanced interior with extended leather trim elevate its premium appeal. While the absence of a manual transmission might be a point of contention for some purists, the 2026 Carrera 4S undeniably delivers an immensely satisfying and high-performance driving experience.

Its projected pricing positions it strategically within the 911 lineup, offering a compelling blend of power, all-weather capability, and luxury. As orders open and deliveries approach in the fourth quarter, the 911 Carrera 4S is poised to reinforce its status as a benchmark in the sports car world, providing more of everything a driver desires, except, of course, a gear lever to shift themselves.