While the GTS moniker used to be reserved for only a handful of Porsche->ke1 sports cars->ke506 in the past, starting with the mid-2000s it began to transform into a trim level. So it happens that, aside from the 2014 Porsche 918 Spyder and the 2015 Porsche Macan, every modern Porsche has a GTS version now.

In the 911->ke282 lineup, the GTS models had the same engine as the standard Carrera S, but with the normally optional power package fitted in standard, giving them 30 horsepower extra. Now that both the 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera and the Carrera S facelifts have switched to a turbocharged, 3.0-liter, flat-six, the 911 GTS 991.2 is more than likely to jump on the same bandwagon. If the same strategy as the one used on the pre-facelift model is kept, the new GTS will probably deliver approximately 450 horsepower, which, along with the massive torque increase, should make it almost as fast as the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 in a straight line.

Naturally, a new powerplant won't be the only difference between the 991 GTS and the 991.2 GTS, which is why I decided to speculate further in the following review. The model should be only a couple of months away from its official unveiling, and a non-camouflaged prototype has already been spotted on the Nurburgring->ke999.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Porsche 991.2 Carrera GTS.

porsche-991-2-carrera-gts

Specifications
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  • Model: porsche-991-2-carrera-gts
Pros
Cons

2017 Porsche 991.2 Carrera GTS

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2017 Porsche 991.2 Carrera GTS
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Since for the standard Carrera and Carrera S you would need 20/20 vision in order to spot the differences compared to the pre-facelift versions, you will probably need a magnifying glass for the 911 GTS. At least this is what the spy video->ke278 above seems to suggest, but maybe the production version will include more exclusive design details. As you can see from the still we took from the video, the 2017 911 Carrera GTS will likely use the same front end as the non-GTS models, with an all-new front bumper with redesigned air intakes and new LED graphics for the headlights.

From the side, the only major differences will probably consist in new design of the alloy wheels and maybe reshaped side skirts, while the rear will sport the same taillights as the facelifted 911 Carrera. While not yet confirmed for the production version, it seems that the pre-production prototype spotted on the Nordschleife was sporting the same exhaust arrangement as the Carrera S fitted with the sports exhaust. In other words, the GTS may feature middle exhaust tips only, including a slightly different rear bumper compared to the non-GTS models.

Interior

Note: Standard 911 Carrera 991.2 interior shown.

Design-wise, the interior of the new Carrera GTS will probably be the least different factor on the model, unless you take a closer look at the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system. The new PCM will feature redesigned graphics, Apple CarPlay, Google Earth, multi-touch gesturing and even handwriting input. Other than that, a new steering wheel inspired by the one from the 918 Spyder will also be present, alongside slightly redesigned front seats.

Drivetrain

This is where the biggest changes will be, as the 2017 Carrera GTS will be the first from its lineage to feature a turbocharged engine. In theory, it should sport a slightly more powerful version of the turbocharged, 3.0-liter flat-six used by the 2016 911 Carrera facelift (991.2). Around 450 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque are expected, sent to the rear wheels via either a seven-speed manual or a seven-speed, PDK transmission.

When equipped with both the dual-clutch gearbox and the Sport Chrono Package, the 0-60 mph time should drop considerably compared to its predecessor, with 3.5-3.6 seconds being an educated guess. Unlike its non-GTS brothers, the fancy rear-axle steering borrowed from the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo and the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 should come standard.

Porsche says that the facelifted Carrera S can lap the Nurburgring in just seven minutes and 30 seconds, so the GTS should be good for a bit less than that. Those 2014 911 GT3 owners are probably reconsidering their leases already, especially since the GTS should be a tad more comfortable than the GT3 and not much slower.

Prices

Obviously, it's a bit early to know the exact pricing for the facelifted model, but since the current one starts at $115,195, I can speculate that it shouldn't stray too much from that figure.

Competition

2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S

Although the horsepower figures would suggest that the Mercedes-AMG GT S is nearer the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo, as far as pricing and performance goes it's actually perfectly suited for the 911 Carrera GTS. Just like the Porsche, it hits 60 mph in well under four seconds and it feels right at home on the racetrack, despite being a thoroughbred street sports cars. It's powered by a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter, V-8 that delivers 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.

The major difference is the distinctive character that the cacophonous V-8 underneath that gigantic hood gives the Merc. Some would actually call the Carrera GTS more refined, while the AMG->ke8 is pretty much an ape in a tailored suit as far as character goes. In other words, you can't really go wrong with either model, but it depends on what you see in a sports car.

You can read our full review of the Mercedes-AMG GT here.

Conclusion

Although there are still a lot of unknowns regarding the facelifted Carrera GTS, it is pretty obvious that it will continue to be a Carrera S that likes going to the gym a bit more. It will have more power and torque, better performance, lower fuel consumption and presumably a Nurburgring lap time that will shame a lot of all-out supercars.