As reliably as the sun rises and sets, Porsche continues to expand its iconic 911 lineup. Following last year’s facelift, the automaker has unveiled the new all-wheel-drive “S” variants: the Carrera 4S coupe, Cabriolet, and Targa 4S. The headline news? These models boast more power and standard equipment than their predecessors, accompanied by a significant price increase.
Like their rear-drive counterparts, the Carrera S coupe and Cabriolet, the new all-wheel-drive models are equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine, producing 473 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. This power boost is largely attributed to intercoolers borrowed from the 911 Turbo, according to Porsche. The horsepower matches that of the previous Carrera GTS, although the torque is slightly reduced. Consistent with the rear-drive models, the only available transmission is an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch, with the manual option reserved for the purist-focused Carrera T and GT3 models.
Enhanced Features and Options
The new 4S models also come standard with a Sports Exhaust and larger brakes derived from the old Carrera GTS model. As before, adaptive dampers, a rear limited-slip differential, and 20/21-inch wheels are standard features. Optional upgrades include sport suspension, rear-wheel steering, the Sport Chrono package, and carbon-ceramic brakes. Notably, the Targa 4S includes rear-wheel steering as a standard feature.
Inside, the 911 Carrera 4S models feature more standard leather trim than before, alongside other upgrades introduced in the recent facelift, including a somewhat controversial digital gauge cluster. The coupe now comes standard as a two-seater, with 2+2 seating available at no additional cost, and standard on the Cabriolet and Targa versions.
Market Position and Pricing
Porsche reports that in the United States, approximately half of all 911 “S” models sold are all-wheel drive, underscoring the importance of these additions to the lineup. Until now, the entry-level all-wheel-drive 911 for the facelifted model was the hybrid Carrera 4 GTS, making these new models a more accessible option for consumers.
However, accessibility comes at a price. Preliminary pricing for the 2026 Carrera 4S coupe is set at $156,450—over $16,000 more than the 2024 model. Porsche emphasizes that this pricing is subject to change. Despite the increased standard equipment and performance, the price hike is substantial. The Carrera 4S Cabriolet is priced at $169,650, while the Targa 4S comes in at $171,350. Yet, Porsche customers are unlikely to be deterred by these figures, as demand for new 911s consistently outpaces supply.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S models marks a significant step in the evolution of the 911 series, blending enhanced performance with luxurious features. As Porsche continues to innovate and expand its lineup, the brand’s commitment to performance and quality remains unwavering. The automotive world will be watching closely to see how these models perform in the market and how Porsche continues to push the boundaries of automotive excellence.
“The 2026 Carrera 4S models not only offer more power and features but also set a new standard for luxury sports cars,” said a Porsche spokesperson. “Our goal is to provide an unparalleled driving experience that meets the high expectations of our customers.”
