2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS

What’s new?

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS introduces significant updates, both inside and out and under the skin. The most notable change is the introduction of the T-Hybrid powertrain, which combines a newly developed 3.6-liter turbocharged flat-six engine with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger and a permanent magnet synchronous motor integrated into the eight-speed PDK transmission. This innovative setup delivers a combined output of 532 horsepower and 449 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase from the outgoing model.

Exterior changes include redesigned front and rear bumpers, new HD Matrix LED headlights with integrated light functions, and a redesigned light strip at the rear. Its interior is modernized with a fully digital 12.6-inch curved instrument cluster, an upgraded 10.9-inch PCM infotainment system, and new connectivity features such as native app integration and video streaming capability when parked.

The new T-Hybrid powertrain brings 59 horses more and faster performance

Whether you’re a fan of hybridization or not, the 992.2 generation is making a bold move. The latest Targa 4 GTS is stepping up its game, replacing its previous 473-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six with a new T-Hybrid powerplant. This cutting-edge powertrain employs a 3.6-liter e-turbocharged boxer-six engine. This engine, combined with an electric supercharger and an e-motor, delivers a combined output of 532 horsepower and 449 pound-feet, 59 horsepower and 29 pound-feet more than before.

All credits to the higher outputs, the new Targa GTS takes just three seconds to dispatch 0-60 mph and reaches a quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds, both with the standard Chrono Package. We expect it to be faster in reality, considering Porsche often understates these numbers. Its top speed maxes out at 194 mph. This makes it 0.3 seconds faster from 0-60 with a four miles per hour higher top speed. We don’t know the exact fuel economy, but the maker states a WLTP combined rating of 21.3 to 21.7 mpg.

Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission. While it’s the same unit from the 992.1 generation, Porsche engineers tuned it for sharper response and precision. Unfortunately, Porsche axed the seven-speed manual gearbox, which is a big deal, especially for purists. You don’t have the twin-turbo boxer-six and the manual box. So, does it make sense to purchase the new GTS? From a purist’s perspective, probably no, unless you desire the additional power!

Snazzier looks, improved aerodynamics, and LED lights, plus a refined design

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS, brings subtle yet meaningful updates to its iconic silhouette. At first glance, the changes may seem subtle, but they contribute to improved aerodynamics and a more modern appearance. Its larger lower air intakes, now equipped with active air flaps, optimize cooling and aerodynamic efficiency, bettering overall performance. Redesigned LED Matrix headlamps with automatic headlight leveling and homecoming/leaving animations are standard, providing sufficient visibility and style. You can also equip HD Matrix LED headlamps for optimized visibility and style.

Moving to the rear, the updated LED light bar with "PORSCHE" lettering adds a touch of sophistication, while the reshaped decklid grille and variable rear spoiler enhance both style and performance. The optional Exclusive Design LED taillamps add more appeal to the back. The sculpted body results in a reduced drag coefficient of 0.27, a significant improvement over the 992.1’s 0.32 figure. While the 992.2 loses certain classic elements, the overall consensus is that it balances tradition and innovation.

One of the standout features of the Targa 4 GTS is the retractable roof system. While many 911 fans argue that it obstructs the clean lines of the classic 911 silhouette, you cannot deny the flexibility and open-air experience it provides. A black roof is standard in this car, but you can choose from brown, red, or blue colors, each costing $230.

This trim includes standard 20-inch front and 21-inch rear Carrera GTS wheels finished in Anthracite, but you get RS Spyder wheels as a no-cost option. Carrera Exclusive wheels with carbon fiber blades add a sportier touch but demand an additional $1,040. Buyers wanting a sportier touch can fit their cars with an Exclusive Manufaktur Exterior Package, which adds gloss black or carbon fiber accents in key areas to deliver a performance-bred look.

A driver-focused cabin with new technological goodies

The interior of the new Targa 4 GTS delicately blends luxury, comfort, and sporty design elements. Building upon the already impressive 992.2 generation, the new GTS introduces several notable changes and enhancements. The most important update is the 12.6-inch fully digital curved display, replacing the traditional analog gauges from the 992.1 generation. This high-resolution touchscreen offers seven customizable layouts, including a classic view with five round dials, catering to both modern and nostalgic preferences.

Porsche also refined the interior trim options, with an expanded range of two-tone and club leather choices. Like before, the passenger capacity remains for four passengers with black Race-Tex upholstery. You can opt for dual-tone leather seats, full Race-Tex interior, or Club leather upholstery, but those increase the MSRP. Front passengers are treated to a pair of four-way power sports seats with heating, but folks staying in warmer regions need to spend $840 for ventilated seats.

Buyers requiring even more flexibility can select between 14- or 18-way power sports seats with memory. Rear passengers don’t get heated or ventilated seats. The AMG SL 63, on the other hand, pampers buyers with heated-cooled sports seats with massage, which can be a big reason buyers may prefer it.

While the dashboard features the same 10.9-inch touchscreen, which may disappoint buyers expecting a larger screen, the updated PCM software introduces wireless Android Auto with Google Play support, allowing you to use Maps, Play Store, and Google Assistant in the car. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, voice control, and navigation are present. An eight-speaker audio system delivers decent quality, but buyers can spend extra on a Bose Surround audio system or a top-of-the-line Burmester 3D audio system.

Practicality is the last thing you’d expect from a convertible, and GTS offers only 4.8 cubic feet of space at the front. The front seats are spacious enough for adults, albeit with lesser headroom. However, the rear seats are tight because of the compact body, so it’s better for children or for extra storage space. If you seek practicality, the AMG SL 63 is a better choice for its 7.5 cubic feet of cargo space; not substantial, but you can store an extra bag during trips.

Interior feature highlights

• 14- or 18-way power sports seats with heating and memory - $1,520 - $3,030

• Ventilated front seats - $840

• Full Race-Tex interior with contrast stitching - $4,930

• Club Leather Interior - $1,780 to $2,470

• GT Sport steering wheel with carbon fiber inserts

• 12.6-inch curved digital instrument cluster

• 10.9-inch central touchscreen with wireless phone pairing

• Native app integration (Spotify, Apple Music)

• BOSE Surround Sound System - $1,600

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

Modern underpinnings make the Targa 4 GTS an ideal daily driver and touring machine

As the term "GTS" or "Grand Touring Sport" implies, this convertible is designed to pamper buyers with impressive track and long-distance touring prowess. At the heart of this car is a capable all-wheel-drive system, coupled with the Porsche Traction Management system and the Sport Chrono Package, which provides excellent traction and launch control capabilities, making it a formidable daily driver in various weather conditions. The electronically controlled limited-slip differential enhances grip and stability, particularly when exiting corners at high speeds.

The standard rear-axle steering enhances agility at low speeds and stability at high speeds, making the car feel nimble in tight corners and planted on the highway. The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sport suspension, lowered by 10mm compared to the base Carrera, strikes a balance between comfort and performance that many enthusiasts will appreciate. The Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) and Porsche Torque Vectoring+ systems further improve cornering capabilities, providing more confidence, especially when driving on twisty mountain roads or cornering. While these features treat drivers with more poised dynamics, not all drivers, especially purists, will like the precise handling, given the 911 is honed for its emotional driving experience.

The GTS pairs its front wheels with 16-inch vented discs and six-piston calipers, whereas the rear wheels are mated to 14.9-inch vented discs and four-piston calipers. These brakes are easy to use and provide sufficient stopping power for most needs. If you drive on the race track often, you can opt for optional Ceramic Composite brakes. These brakes improve braking via 16.5-inch front and 16-inch rear carbon fiber reinforced vented discs, assisted with ten-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. While these brakes are more aggressive, they demand $9,780 and have shorter lifespans than regular brakes.

Another area of contention is the electric power steering. While Porsche tuned it for better feedback, it can’t replicate the feel offered by traditional hydraulic steering systems. The optional Power Steering Plus offers greater high-speed response and more support at lower speeds to improve handling, but drivers have often complained about the synthetic feel coming from the electronic assist. The optional Front Axle Lift system raises the ride height for navigating speed bumps and steep driveways, addressing a common complaint about low-slung sports cars.

Performance features highlights

• Standard rear-axle steering

• Porsche Active Suspension Management sport suspension

• Optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC)

• Porsche Torque Vectoring+

• Sport Chrono Package

• Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes - $9,780

• Power Steering Plus - $300

What safety features are there?

Like most six-figure-costing luxury cars, the 992.2 generation didn’t go through safety tests conducted by the NHTSA or IIHS, but this sports car enjoys a reputation for being safe, owing it its robust platform and advanced safety features.

Costing $186,000, the Targa 4 GTS includes a basic set of features that can deter buyers from prioritizing safety. Features like front/rear park assist with reverse camera, cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and driver awareness are standard. You need to shell out extra money for a night vision camera, 360-degree camera with Active Parking Support, lane functions, and even Adaptive Cruise Control, a standard feature on mass-market cars nowadays.

Quite frankly, it’s better to opt for the AMG SL 63 because it packs a more expansive set of features, and an optional Driver Assistance Package includes features the 911 doesn’t offer.

How’s the warranty?

Porsche offers a four-year or 50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty with the 911 Targa 4 GTS. The battery comes with an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty and complimentary maintenance is included for one year or 10,000 miles.

Mercedes-AMG and Maserati offer the same basic powertrain warranty, but their corrosion warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles, unlike Porsche’s 12 years/unlimited miles. Moreover, they don’t come with 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

• 8 years/100,000 miles electric component warranty

• 12 years/ unlimited miles corrosion warranty

• One year/10,000 miles complimentary maintenance

How does the 911 Targa 4 GTS compare to its rivals?

2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 63

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 is a formidable rival to the 911 Targa 4 GTS, boasting a sleek, modern design and a luxurious interior. Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, the SL 63 is more powerful than the Targa 4 GTS. However, the Mercedes-AMG’s larger size and heavier weight make it 0.5 seconds slower in 0-60 mph and digs its handling.

In terms of features, the SL 63 offers a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems and more interior features. Its cabin is roomier, and features like heated-ventilated front seats with massage are standard fitments. Buyers also get a Driver Assistance Package for adding self-driving capabilities. Pricing for the SL 63 starts at $187,000, making it just $1,000 dearer than the Porsche. Now, it’s for buyers to decide whether they want boxer-six magic with track-ready handling or sleeker looks and class-leading comfort.

2024 Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo

Starting at $203,000, the 2024 Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo is another strong competitor, offering Italian style and performance. Powered by a 3.0-liter Nettuno twin-turbo V6 engine making 542 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, the GranCabrio Trofeo is brawnier than the 911 Targa 4 GTS, but its heavier curb weight results in 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, like the SL 63. However, the Maserati and AMG are faster than the Porsche, with a 196-mph top speed.

Maserati’s exterior design is classically similar to Porsche’s, which may appeal to buyers seeking traditional aesthetics. Its cabin features high-quality materials and meticulously showcases Italian craftsmanship. The dashboard features a dual-display layout with 12.3-inch infotainment and 8.8-inch climate touchscreens, though the interface isn’t as intuitive as Porsche. One area where it falls short of the Porsche is the two-seater layout. While not necessarily bad, considering it’s a two-seater convertible, many buyers may seek more practicality.

Conclusion: The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS receives crucial updates

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance luxury convertible. It employs a new 532-horsepower 3.6-liter e-turbocharged boxer-six powertrain to run to sixty in three ticks, and the hybrid units should earn better efficiency and performance. Its exterior gains a new bumper with improved aerodynamics and HD Matrix headlamps. On the inside, you now get a full digital cluster and wireless Android Auto with Google Play compatibility.

But, there are some drawbacks. The T-Hybrid powertrain adds complexity and weight, which may harm the car’s nimbleness, with unknown long-term reliability. Although the interior is well-appointed, it may feel cramped for taller drivers, and the discontinuation of a manual transmission is disappointing news. If you want better practicality, more features, and sleeker styling at a lower price, the AMG SL 63 is a top choice. The Maserati GranCabrio, on the other hand, presents a richer tone but at a higher price. All summed up, the 992.2 Targa 4 GTS is a good choice if you want a daily driver with hidden track talents.

FAQs

How much does the 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS cost?

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS starts at $186,000, excluding destination charges, options, and dealer markups. When optioned with exterior upgrades, interior creature comforts, safety, and technological niceties, the price reaches close to $200,000. This makes it a rival to the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo.

How powerful is the 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS?

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS features a new 3.6-liter e-turbocharged flat-six engine paired with a T-Hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 532 horsepower and 449 pound-feet of torque. The new powertrain enables the Targa 4 GTS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds, reaching a top speed of 194 mph.

How does the 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS compare to the 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo?

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo are close competitors to the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS. The SL 63 offers more power via a 577-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine and looks sleeker with trendy styling. Its interior includes heated-ventilated front seats with massage, a larger touchscreen, and roomier seats.

The GranCabrio Trofeo, on the other hand, retains a 542-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 and focuses more on craftsmanship. Alongside its emotional exterior styling, its interior offers Italian craftsmanship and a dual-screen setup. While more powerful, the Targa 4 GTS runs quicker from 0 to 60 mph and handles better because of its lighter weight.

How does the 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS compare against the 2024 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS?

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS introduces significant changes over the 2024 model. The new 3.6-liter T-Hybrid powertrain delivers 59 horsepower and 29 pound-feet of torque more than the previous engine. Exterior updates include redesigned front and rear bumpers, HD Matrix LED headlights, and a new rear light strip. Inside, a fully digital 12.6-inch instrument cluster and an updated PCM interface add wireless Android Auto with Google support.

What are the disadvantages of the 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS?

The 2025 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS exhibits a few drawbacks. The T-Hybrid system adds complexity and weight, which may deter some purists. The lack of a manual transmission option may disappoint enthusiasts who prefer a more engaging driving experience. The Targa’s compact interior may feel cramped for taller drivers, and its high price point could be a barrier for some buyers. Additionally, the Targa roof, while stylish, may not appeal to everyone.