2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

What’s new?

The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is part of the eighth 992 generation of the 911. It boasts a redesigned exterior with a fresh face, wider intakes, and new LED headlamps. This trim comes with a 45-millimeter wider front track and an all-aluminum body. The redesigned interior features a new semi-digital cluster with two side displays and a 10.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay.

The 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six gets carried over, producing 443 horsepower and 390 pound-feet. 0-60 mph timing reduces by 0.4 seconds (3.2 seconds with PDK and Sports Chrono Package). A "Wet Mode" debuts for more stability on surfaces with low traction, while sport-tuned PASM dampers, slammed by 10 millimeters, enhance stability.

Gets the same engine, but the 992 generation produces more power

The 992 generation gets the same 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged boxer-six engine, known internally as the 9A2 Evo. While it’s essentially the same engine in the base Carrera, in this guise, it is tuned to produce 443 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, marking an additional 23 horsepower and 22 pound-feet of torque over the outgoing generation.

An eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission is standard, often praised for its lightning-fast shifts and smooth operation. Apart from the PDK, there is an optional seven-speed manual gearbox with shorter gear ratios to treat purists with a more connected driving experience, a rarity in sports cars.

Porsche states the Carrera 4S takes just 3.2 seconds to gallop to sixty miles from a standstill and maxes at 190 mph. This makes it 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing model from 0-60 mph. But these are mere maker-claimed estimates, and like most 911s, the 4S beats these figures. It takes just three seconds for the 4S to clock 0-60 mph and 11.3 seconds for a quarter-mile, making it an excellent choice for high-speed lovers. If you seek supercar-killing performance, the more potent 911 Turbo with a twin-turbo flat-six and sub-2.5-second 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds.

While these figures are laudable, Porsche falls short of its rivals in some areas. The AMG GT Coupe, although slower, features a handcrafter 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, and many buyers will prefer the eight-banger for its mean exhaust note and less complicated architecture. On the other hand, the Nissan GT-R earns up to 565 horsepower and 467 pound-feet with its 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, delivering 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds.

The 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six trades efficiency for that extra power but better rivals with the higher economy. It manages 18 mph (city) and 23 mpg (highway) with the PDK, but the manual presents 17 and 24 mpg, respectively. A 17.6-gallon tank serves up to 404.8 miles on the highway, but rivals have slightly larger fuel tanks (19.5 for the GT-R and 19.8 for the GT Coupe) offering slightly better range.

Redesigned bodywork and trim-specific cues yield a bolder road presence

Porsche redesigned the Carrera 4S for the 2020 model year, marking the arrival of the 992 generation. Its overall design retains the heritage-inspired styling, but new design elements bestow a newer look. Compared to the outgoing 991.2 generation, it features a wider body with a 45-millimeter wider front track, which makes the overall stance look more athletic.

One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of flush and electric door handles that extend when needed and retract when the car is in motion. This sleek design improves aerodynamics and adds a modern touch to the classic 911 lines. Wider air intakes for improved airflow dominate its fascia, keeping the engine and brakes cool plus enhancing the overall aerodynamics. LED headlamps with new four-point DRLs lay a more contemporary touch to the fascia, with straight lines seamlessly flowing down the hood to create more drama. Buyers can opt for LED Matrix Design Headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS+) for $2,000 for optimized visibility in darker conditions and an advanced look.

At the rear, an LED light bar spans from one end to the other, showcasing the car’s width to exhibit a modern demeanor. A redesigned variable-position rear spoiler is present for improved aerodynamics and high-speed stability while blessing the Carrera with a more outdoorsy stance. "PORSCHE" lettering integrated into the light bar showcases brand pride. The 4S distinguishes itself from lesser trims with staggered 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, adding a graceful look and contributing to its exceptional handling.

Porsche further offers a myriad of optional embellishments to enable owners to create a one-off example. An optional carbon fiber roof ($3,890) adds a contrasting look, especially with light/bright exterior shades, while a glass roof ($2,000) improves light flow. Model badges and decals of various colors are available, along with black or silver exhaust pipes. The exterior color palette is divided into multiple groups, with standard black and white colors. Buyers can opt for metallic colors at $830, special paints at $3,270, and custom colors at $11,430.

A new interior with updated technologies and performance-driven creature comforts

Like outgoing Porsche 911 generations, the new 992 generation packs a driver-focused cabin, but there are various updates enthusiasts will love. The dashboard design remains simple yet effective, with straight lines, physical buttons, and a new center console with a gear shifter, rotary dials, and adjusters. Metal-accented interior trims and soft-touch leather-trimmed interior surfaces promise a plushy touch and reduced noise levels. Buyers can also fit aluminum, carbon fiber, Paldao wood, or leatherette inlays for an upscale touch.

One of the most significant changes is the new semi-digital instrument cluster, which replaces the previous model’s fully analog setup. This new cluster features a central analog tachometer flanked by two vibrant seven-inch displays. These screens provide the driver with all essential information, from navigation directions to performance data, while the needle in the analog rev counter clocks its way up to 7,500 rpm, offering a purer feel to the driver.

While the interior is performance-focused, the 992 generation takes comfort seriously. It seats four passengers with tons of space in the front seats. However, like all 911s, taller passengers will dislike the rear seats for the tighter head and legroom. The rear glass sits above the headrests, and sunlight falls directly on the occupant’s head on scorching summer days. However, an optional glass roof allows enough light and air to pass, offering a roomier feel.

Another standout feature of the Carrera 4S is the versatile seating setup. Four-way heated sports seats and rear bench seats are standard. Buyers needing ventilated seats will have to spend $840, which we expected in the standard list, considering this car costs more than 120 grand and rivals don’t demand extra bills.

Buyers needing more comfort can opt for upgraded four-way or 14-way sports seats with fatter bolsters, but they aren’t as comfortable as the standard ones. If you seek a sporty driving posture and comfort simultaneously, a pair of 18-way adaptive sports seats with memory is the one. Club leather upholstery and a full leather interior with contrast stitching are available for a richer vibe, but they significantly increase the MSRP.

The infotainment receives a major upgrade. A 10.9-inch touchscreen graces the center with the latest PCM software offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Wi-Fi, voice-assist, and navigation. Android users will be mad at Porsche as there isn’t Android Auto yet. If you want features like a full-digital cluster and Android Auto, save money for the 992.2 generation. An eight-speaker audio set delivers decent quality, but Porsche treats with high-quality sound via a 12-speaker Bose or 13-speaker Burmester premium audio system.

Like most sports cars, practicality is an overlooked side of the 911. It only offers 4.66 cubic feet at the front, but the rear seats fold flat to provide 9.32 cubic feet of extra space. That said, you get 13.9 cubic feet. While the space is roomier than the likes of the AMG GT Coupe, remember we’re talking combined space in the 911, while the GT Coupe serves 10.1 cubic feet in the rear alone.

Options

• 14-way sports seats - $2,330

• 18-way adaptive sports seats – $3,470

• Ventilated front seats – $840

• Club leather seats – $5,340

• Aluminum/carbon fiber/Paldao wood inlays – $1,260/ $2,100/ $1,900

• Heated GT steering wheel (leather/Alcantara/carbon fiber) - $590/$800/$1,470

• Power tilt/slide glass roof - $2,000

• Bose Surround audio system - $1,600

• Burmester High-End Surround Sound System - $3,980/$5,560

Excels in daily drivability and occasional track hauling

The 992 Carrera 4S continues to make a strong statement with its maneuverability. Unlike the lesser Carrera S, this model gets an advanced all-wheel-drive system with Porsche Traction Management, ensuring drivers get enough grip and stability on the tracks or slippery roads. A "Wet Mode" takes handling a step further by using an acoustic sensor to detect water on the road and adjust drivetrain settings accordingly to enhance safety and control, especially if you live in places with wet or colder climates.

Compared to the previous generation, the 992 model has a 45mm wider front track, contributing to improved stability at higher speeds. Its chassis is equipped with the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system, which continuously adjusts the damping settings based on the surface and drive modes. Ride quality remains smooth with lower vibration levels.

Enthusiasts seeking an even more dynamic setup can opt for the PASM Sport Suspension ($1,020), which lowers the ride height by 10mm to provide extra stability while cornering or taking sharp turns. However, since the optional PASM suspension is sport-tuned, they use stiffer damper settings, and ride quality feels firm even in the comfort mode, but it shouldn’t feel uncomfortable for most occupants.

One of the most impressive features is the optional rear-axle steering system ($2,090), which enhances low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability by turning the rear wheels as the front. It reduces the turning circle from 36.8 ft to 35.8 ft, making the car more agile in tight spaces.

The variable-ratio electromechanical power steering provides excellent feedback and precision. The optional Power Steering Plus ($280) offers a lighter feel at low speeds but doesn’t have any feedback. For those navigating steep driveways or speed bumps, the Front Axle Lift System ($2,770) increases the ground clearance by 1.5 inches, helping you easier tackle those speed humps through city streets.

Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), available for $3,170, utilizes active anti-roll bars to minimize body lean during cornering, further enhancing the car’s already impressive handling. Braking performance is equally remarkable, with 13.7-inch front and rear rotors clamped by six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. For the ultimate stopping power, Porsche offers its Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) for $8,970, stopping the car from sixty in just 94 feet.

Reliability and problems

Reliability and longevity have always been strong suits for the Porsche 911, and the 2020 model continues this tradition, albeit with a few caveats. The 911 Carrera 4S is one of the most problematic trims in the 2020 model year lineup, having faced six recalls from the NHTSA. The first recall was issued for loose driveshaft bolts, whereas the second addressed malfunctioned hazard lights. The loose front axle differential bracket was the reason for the third recall, and untightened upper control arms were for the fourth. The fifth and sixth recalls fixed pressure input rod faults and improperly secured windows.

Regarding ratings, J.D. Power gives the 2020 Porsche 911 model a respectable reliability rating of 82 out of 100, placing it above average for the luxury sports car segment. However, RepairPal ranks it 25th out of 31 midsize luxury cars for reliability, with a below-average score of 2 out of 5. This is mainly due to an above-average annual maintenance cost of $1,072 and expensive repair expenditures. For instance, a clutch replacement costs over $3,100, while a catalytic converter replacement costs $3,500. Turbochargers need more than $1,100 to replace, and fixing the sunroof module will cost you $800.

While the 9A2 Evo 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six engine stays mostly reliable, buyers have often highlighted some major problems. The most common problem appears to be an internal leak at the oil separator, which can lead to excessive oil consumption, smoke, and fuel trim issues. Coolant leaks and engine overheating have also been reported, often due to a faulty coolant reservoir. Additionally, owners have experienced oil leaks at the rear main seal or intermediate support cover o-ring. The PDK transmission is said to have slight vibration or shudder during low-speed maneuvers, which could be attributed to the dual-mass flywheel or the transmission mounts.

On the electronics front, the Carrera 4S remains largely trouble-free, but some owners have reported glitches with the PCM interface, like freezing or unresponsive touchscreens. However, these incidents seem isolated and can often be resolved through software updates. Minor issues like rattles and squeaks from interior trim pieces, particularly in the dashboard and door panels, premature leather upholstery wear, and peeling interior parts were reported.

How does it compare against rivals?

2020 Nissan GT-R Premium

Nissan’s legendary GT-R narrates a rich history and a massive fanbase amongst supercars and JDM fans. The 2020 GT-R Premium, priced at $113,540, undercuts the Carrera 4S by $7,060. It features a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, generating 565 horsepower and 467 pound-feet, the most powerful in the competition. Such numbers help it promise a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 197 mph. The GT-R’s all-wheel-drive system and advanced suspension provide exceptional handling, but it’s no match for the 911 on the race track because of its larger body and higher curb weight.

While its exterior remains appealing with sharp lines and LED headlamps, the interior is far from perfect. Cheap plastics, outdated technology, and inferior materials are flooded. However, the Nissan’s performance-per-dollar ratio is hard to ignore, and it’s more practical with spacious front/rear seats plus a roomier trunk.

2020 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe

Mercedes-AMG’s GT Coupe is a formidable competitor, starting at $115,900. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 produces 469 horsepower and 465 pound-feet, more than the 911 Carrera 4S. However, its heavier curb weight and larger body make it slower than the Porsche, with a 0-60 mph timing of 3.9 seconds.

The AMG GT’s sleek, aggressive styling turns heads, while the longer hood ensures a more supercar-like design. However, the front-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive unit compromise the handling, where the Carrera 4S shines. Its luxurious interior pampers occupants with high-end materials and advanced technology. With just the front row, you get a 12.3-inch all-digital cluster and a more sports car-focused interior. While sporty, the 911 and GT-R are more family-friendly. The Mercedes also falls short in the warranty as it doesn’t offer complimentary maintenance but offers the best safety features in this competition.

Warranty

Porsche bundles the new 911 with a four-year or 50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty. Complimentary service is promised for the first year or 10,000 miles. Nissan, on the other hand, provides a basic warranty for only three years or 36,000 miles, but its powertrain warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles. However, neither Nissan nor Mercedes offers complimentary maintenance.

Warranty highlights

• 4 years/50,000 miles basic warranty

• 4 years/50,000 miles powertrain warranty

• 4 years/50,000 miles roadside assistance

• 12 years/unlimited miles corrosion warranty

• 1 year/10,000 miles complimentary maintenance

Conclusion: The Carrera 4S improves for the 992 generation, and offers excellent value

The 992 Carrera 4S continues the trim’s legacy of blending high performance with everyday usability. Its all-wheel-drive system offers enhanced traction over the Carrera S, making it a compelling choice for those who drive in varied weather conditions. While it impresses with power and refinement, the Nissan GT-R Premium and Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offer more power and are unique alternatives.

FAQs

What’s new in the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S?

The 2020 model marks the debut of the eighth or 992 generation of the 911. It features a redesigned exterior with new LED headlamps, wider intakes, and a 45-millimeter wider front track. It offers faster performance via a 443-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six. Its redesigned interior gets a new semi-digital instrument cluster and a 10.9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay. New features like a wet mode for improved wet-weather traction and an optional night vision assist with thermal imaging, which marks big improvements.

How much does the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S cost?

The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S starts at $120,600 for the coupe and $133,400 for the cabriolet. However, Porsche offers extensive customization options and packages that can significantly increase prices. Well-equipped models can easily reach $140,000-$150,000. Optional features like rear-axle steering, sport exhaust, premium audio, and advanced driver assistance systems can add substantial costs to the base price.

How does the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S compare to the 2020 Nissan GT-R Premium and 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe?

The 911 Carrera 4S is the costliest sports car among the three. It undercuts the 2020 Nissan GT-R Premium’s pricing by $7,060 and the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe’s MSRP by $115,900. However, it’s less powerful than its rivals. The GT-R features a 565-horsepower 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, while the AMG GT packs a 469-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Unlike the AMG’s two-seater layout, the Nissan and Porsche seats four passengers. All three deliver exceptional performance, but the lighter 911 is often praised for its everyday usability and track prowess.

What powers the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S?

The 2020 911 Carrera 4S is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged boxer-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed PDK transmission and all-wheel drive, propelling from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package. A seven-speed manual gearbox takes slightly longer to accelerate, but the top speed remains 190 mph.

What are the interior features of the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S?

The 2020 911 Carrera 4S gets a modernized interior with a 10.9-inch touchscreen and a semi-digital cluster with two seven-inch displays. Standard features include leather upholstery, four-way power sports seats with heating, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-speaker stereo. Optional upgrades include a Burmester high-end sound system, 18-way adaptive sport seats, club leather seats, and a GT steering wheel with heating. The 2+2 seating configuration offers added practicality.