The 992.2-generation Porsche 911 lineup continues to fill out. Next to hit the market is the trio of '4S' cars - i.e. the S models with four-wheel drive. There are three body styles to choose from in the shapes of the 911 Carrera 4S Coupe and Cabriolet and the 911 Targa 4S.
What powers the 4S models?
As already tested in the 992.2 Carrera S, there's an upgraded 3.0-litre flat-six in the backs of the 4S cars, featuring twin turbocharging and an intercooler design borrowed from the Porsche 911 Turbo. Peak power is up 30hp on the previous 4S, at 480hp, while maximum torque is 530Nm.
Despite the extra traction afforded by the four-wheel-drive system, the 911 Carrera 4S puts in an identical 0-100km/h time of 3.3 seconds as the rear-drive version (if fitted with the Sport Chrono pack), though presumably the 4S will get closer to that in slippery conditions than the S will.
All cars come with Porsche's eight-speed, dual-clutch PDK gearbox and a rear bias to the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system. The front differential features a water-cooled, electromechanically controlled clutch design as before.
Are the 'S' models well-equipped?
While the options list is extensive as ever, the 4S models come with plenty of niceties as standard, including 20-inch front, 21-inch rear wheels, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (an electronically controlled limited-slip differential), a sports exhaust and the same brakes as the 911 Carrera GTS. Additionally, rear-wheel steering is fitted to the 911 Targa 4S.
Externally, the 4S models get matrix-LED headlights, electrically folding door mirrors and the Light Design package. Inside, there's leather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging, auto-dimming mirrors and more. As elsewhere in the 911 range, while the Cabriolet and Targa get rear seats by default, buyers of the 911 Carrera 4S Coupe must specify them (for no extra cost).
How much are the 4S models in Ireland?
Interestingly, about 50 per cent of Porsche customers that go for the S model choose the four-wheel-drive option, so it's clearly of importance to the company. And the step up in price from the equivalent rear-wheel-drive model is reasonable.
Against a price of €232,950 for the 911 Carrera S, the Carrera 4S is €244,900, for example. The 911 Cabriolet 4S is €262,819 and the 911 Targa 4S is €265,674, making it the most affordable Targa variant currently on sale.