The 2015 Carrera GTS could be the sweet spot in Porsche’s 911 lineup

By Stephen Edelstein Published October 8, 2014

In the sometimes convoluted world of Porsche, models with the “GTS” tag have become something of a sweet spot, offering more performance than base versions without going too hardcore.

A GTS model was also one of the few things missing from the vast 991-series 911 lineup. Porsche is filling that gap for 2015 with the 911 Carrera GTS.

Available in either coupe or convertible form, and with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the Carrera GTS attempts to bridge the gap between the Carrera S and hardcore 911 GT3.

To do that, Porsche made the Carrera S Powerkit – Sport Chrono package and sport exhaust – standard equipment. That means the GTS’ 3.8-liter flat-six produces 430 horsepower and 324 pound-feet of torque.

Equipped with the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, Porsche says the GTS coupe will do 0 to 60 mph one tenth of a second quicker than the Carrera S, making the short trip in 3.8 seconds. With the seven-speed manual transmission, it takes 4.2 seconds.

Related: Porsche 911 Carrera reports for police duty Down Under

However, the manual has a slight advantage over the PDK in top speed, reaching a nice even 190 mph compared to 189 mph. The convertible versions are slightly slower.

In addition to the tweaked engine, GTS models get lowered suspension, a Porsche Dynamic Light System, and interiors trimmed in Alcantara.

Visually, the GTS is distinguished by 20-inch center-lock wheels, tinted headlights, and black chrome exhaust tips. Rear-wheel drive models also get the same Carrera 4 wide body as all-wheel drive versions.

The 2015 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS will go on sale in the U.S. before the end of 2014. Pricing (including destination) starts at $115,195 for the coupe and $127,095 for the convertible.

All-wheel drive Carrera 4 GTS models start at $121,895 and $133,795 for the coupe and convertible respectively. That equates to a roughly $15,000 premium over comparable Carrera S models.

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Stephen Edelstein

Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

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