2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S is the still-gas-powered icon's new top trim

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What is it?

The Porsche 911 Turbo, one of the more defining models of the brand, takes an evolutionary step forward in the long history of the car, one that goes back to the 930 911 Turbo of 1974 – the poster car that hung in the rooms of countless young enthusiasts – the first production turbo for the 911.

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Today, however, the Turbo is lightyears ahead of the 260-horsepower original — almost able to achieve the speed of light, in fact. Now with 641 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, the 2021 911 Turbo S will hit 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds using launch control, and reach 200 km/h in 8.9 seconds.

Much of those gains come from a redesigned charge-air-cooling system, new and larger symmetrical VTG turbochargers with electrically-adjustable wastegate flaps, as well as the use of piezo injectors.

The 911 Turbo S, either in Coupe or Cabriolet form, adopts many of the wider dimensions, looks and interior components of the 992-version 911, but with numerous modifications, including an optional sports chassis that lowers the car by 10 mm; a sports exhaust system with adjustable flaps to enhance the sound; “adaptive aerodynamics” including using the rear spoiler as an air brake; and of course the more-power 3.8-litre flat-six to power the car’s AWD.

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Why does it matter?

Because it hasn’t gone electric. Porsche is pushing ahead to electrify as many as half of its models by 2025, but the fact the Turbo remains a high-octane gasoline-only sports car signals the Turbo will remain a true driver’s car for at least this generation, undiluted by the politics of electric propulsion. The Turbo is also an aspirational car for the 911 line – the one most likely to appeal to the wider public rather than the enthusiast – so it has to be perfect in so many ways. By the looks of things, it appears to have succeeded.

When is it coming?

Spring 2020 with dealers already accepting deposits.

Should you buy it?

If track days and naturally aspirated engines are important, the Turbo is not your car. And if AWD, stunning looks and blistering performance are what you need in your 911, the basic 911 Turbo might be all you need. But to stand head and shoulders above them all, the Turbo S Coupe will do it all for $231,700, while the cabriolet retails for $246,300.

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