CAN A HYBRID 911 POSSIBLY BE GREAT TO DRIVE?

EV Channels Review

The Smoking Tire's Matt Farah addresses the controversial introduction of a hybrid powertrain to the Porsche 911, specifically the 992.2 GTS. Farah drives both the all-wheel-drive convertible and the rear-wheel-drive coupe variants, highlighting the new 1.9 kWh battery, dual electric motors (one in the PDK, one in the single turbocharger), and the resulting 532 horsepower output. He notes the hybrid system significantly improves low-speed drivability by eliminating the 'bogging' issue in normal mode and provides virtually instant boost thanks to the electric-spooled turbo. On the track, the hybrid system is praised for its seamless integration, making the car feel fast and agile without overtly betraying its hybrid nature. While acknowledging the added weight (103 lbs) and complexity, Farah deems the trade-off worthwhile for the gains in power, smoothness, and efficiency, particularly at higher speeds. The primary drawbacks identified are the significantly increased price, pushing the GTS into territory typically reserved for Turbo or GT3 models, and potential long-term reliability concerns for future owners due to the added complexity. Despite these points, Farah concludes that the hybrid 911 is a genuinely fast and capable machine, offering a compelling, albeit expensive, daily-driver experience.