992.2 GTS: Is The 3.6-Liter T-Hybrid 911 Worth The Criticism? - story Go to full screen story Fullscreen

992.2 GTS: Is The 3.6-Liter T-Hybrid 911 Worth The Criticism?

While it brings electrification to a production 911 for the first time, here are some pros and cons of the T-Hybrid system

by Khris Bharath on January 20, 2025, 10:00

The Porsche 992.2 GTS is a divisive machine, even by 911 standards. The GTS badge first appeared on the 997 generation and has since evolved to symbolize performance-focused refinement and it has long been touted as the sweet spot between Carrera usability and GT3 aggression. The 992.2 iteration brings a host of changes: The introduction of an all-new 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged (9A3B6) hybrid powertrain, Porsche has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Is it the future of performance motoring, or a betrayal of everything the GTS badge stands for? Let’s take an unvarnished look.

992.2 T-Hybrid System

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The 3.6-liter twin-turbo engine paired with a mild hybrid system puts out 532 horsepower, a reworked PASM suspension, and lightweight construction via extensive use of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). This my friends is the top-spec model within the Carrera family. Now the big talking point here with the electrified 992.2 GTS of course is the new T-Hybird system.

At the heart of it all is the brand-new 3.6-liter 9A3B6 flat-six engine, which Porsche designed from the ground up. This engine boosts power and efficiency and preserves the iconic low center of gravity that defines the 911. With the addition of a compact e-motor cleverly integrated into the PDK transmission, Porsche enhanced performance while keeping the weight gain to just 110 pounds compared to the non-hybrid 911 GTS.

While it doesn’t allow for all-electric driving, it provides seamless support to the combustion engine. The integrated e-motor ensures the turbocharger performs without lag and captures excess energy to recharge the 1.9 kWh hybrid battery, which can also deliver temporary performance boosts.

Seeing how the hybrid GTS outperformed the non-hybrid 992.1 Turbo S at the Nürburgring is proof of its capabilities. I can’t help but wonder how Porsche will expand this technology, especially with rumors of a hybrid 992.2 Turbo S. Porsche has managed to preserve the soul of the 911 while pioneering a new era of hybrid performance.

2 GTS: Is The 3.6-Liter T-Hybrid 911 Worth The Criticism? Drivetrain storyboard - image 176544
Porsche 9A3 Engine Specifications (with e-Motor)
Power (combined) 532 hp at 6,500 RPM (combined)
Torque 450 lb-ft (610 Nm) at 2,000 RPM
E-motor outut 56 hp, 110 lb-ft
Battery 1.9 kWh, Lithium-ion, 400-Volt
Transmission 8-speed PDK automatic
Driveline Rear engine, AWD
Curb weight 3,516 lbs
0-60 mph 2.9 seconds
Top speed 194 mph

Common Criticisms of the 992.2 GTS

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  • Performance Concerns: Critics argue that the hybrid system, despite its technological prowess, detracts from the visceral nature of a 911. Compared to its predecessor, the 992.2 GTS is heavier by just over 100 pounds, and purists lament the impact on handling dynamics. Acceleration is undeniably faster 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds but detractors claim it could feel a bit digital compared to the rawer, more analog 992.1 GTS.

  • Long-Term Reliability: While Porsche’s E-hybrid systems have proven their mettle in the Panamera and Cayenne, the long-term reliability of the new T-hybrid system remains to be seen.

  • No Manual Transmission: As the second electric motor is now integrated into the PDK, it is no longer possible to integrate a three-pedal setup on hybridized 911s. Due to the hybrid system’s design, particularly the electric motor placement within the transmission bell housing, it is not possible to integrate a manual gearbox with this powertrain

  • Tuning Woes: It has also come to light that the 992.2 GTS with the T-Hybird system won’t be as tunable compared to the outgoing GTS. The electric Turbo of the T-Hybrid system doesn’t pack a wastegate. A Porsche engineer even confirmed that tuners will have a tough time tinkering with the T-Hybrid system.

  • A Compromised Sound Profile: Compared to the parallel-twin turbos on the 992.1 GTS, the latest model features a single big Turbo which translates to lesser turbo noise. You get an electronically actuated sports exhaust now, which means depending on the drive mode, you can have a more subdued engine note.

  • Design and Aesthetics: The exterior design despite the GTS’ signature blacked-out elements has been called conservative by some enthusiasts, with criticisms focusing on the evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes. This in a way I’d say is expected of Porsche. The only way to tell that you’re looking at the latest GTS is those vertical active vents in the front bumper. While impeccably crafted, the interior has drawn mixed reactions for its touch-sensitive controls and reduced physical buttons.

  • Price Point: Starting at $164,000 the 992.2 GTS faces scrutiny for its cost. Outgoing GTS was around $150k. Some argue that its performance doesn’t justify the near $20,000 premium over the 992.2 Carrera S. Rivals such as the Mercedes-AMG GT offer compelling alternatives with arguably more character at similar price points.

Expert Opinions and Reviews

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On forums like Rennlist, opinions remain divided; while some purists bemoan the weight gain, others commend its usability and performance. Over on Reddit a back-to-back comparison of the sound profile test of the 992.1 and 992.2 GTS didn’t do the T-Hybrid any favors.

Having said that, folks from Evo and Car and Driver have praised the 992.2 GTS for its breadth of abilities. Ex-Top Gear presenter, Chirs Harris said that the new GTS is one of the cleverer new pieces of technology that he’s driven in years.

Now compared to the GTS, the Mercedes-AMG GT offers a sonorous V8 but lacks the refinement of the Porsche. If you really want to save big, you can also look at the hybridized Corvette E-Ray, which starts at just over 100 grand and you can get the Chevy with AWD as well, just like with the Porsche.

The criticisms of the 992.2 GTS are not without merit. It is heavier, more expensive, and perhaps less emotive than its predecessors. But to dismiss it outright is to ignore its significant advancements and the broader context of its segment. The hybrid system, while polarizing, represents a bold step forward in performance motoring. In the end, the 992.2 GTS is not for everyone—but for those who understand its purpose, it might just be the perfect 911.

Khris Bharath

Khris Bharath

Khris is a Mechanical Engineer and a classic car aficionado, who adores his Jags, Alfas, and old-school American muscle cars. He keeps tabs on everything from super exotics like an old EB 110 to the latest from Lucid and geeks out on three-row family haulers. Formula One remains very close to his heart, and he diligently makes time to tune in for the Grand Prix on Sundays. Khris also loves his road trips and he prefers a stick shift over an auto. Read full bio