Here’s a recap of a recent livestream from Welcome Home, PORSCHE.
Listen in during your commute, on your way to school, or on a drive in your Porsche.
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Key Topics and Highlights

Buying the Carrera GT 25th Anniversary Sneakers [04:03]

• While visiting the dealership for an annual inspection of the 964, the host picked up the silver Carrera GT 25th Anniversary sneakers.
• The black version was reportedly expected to arrive in Japan, but the silver pair also made it there.
• The box looks as though it could hold a Carrera GT miniature, and the shoe soles feature a tread pattern inspired by Michelin tires.
• The sneakers are also available through the online store, but sizes are limited, so it’s best to buy early.

Carrera GT 25th Anniversary Merchandise [08:36]

• The Carrera GT collection includes a range of items, including a Porsche crest key ring.
• The key ring costs more than ¥10,000, with a carbon-fiber version also available—making the collection pricier than usual.
• Before the pandemic, there was a period when Carrera GT prices were falling.
• The Carrera GT debuted in 2000, making this its 25th anniversary year.

992.2 Carrera GTS T-Hybrid Test Drive: First Impressions [14:00]

• The test car was a Chalk Carrera GTS T-Hybrid with a Cognac interior—a particularly striking combination.
• There’s no starter-motor sound when you fire it up: press the button, and the engine starts almost instantly.
• The powertrain pairs a 3.6-liter single-turbo engine with a compact lithium-ion battery and an electric motor, adding around 50 kg (110 lb) over the previous model.
• Pulling away feels much like a conventional 911, but once on the road, the car feels more responsive on torque than the previous GTS.

How the T-Hybrid Feels on the Road [23:36]

• At low speeds, the electric motor provides assistance, while boost rarely comes into play. It’s aptly described as an “electrically assisted Carrera.”
• Unlike the Cayenne Hybrid, it doesn’t lean as heavily on electric power; it feels more like a gasoline-powered car with hybrid assistance.
• Drivers familiar with Teslas or the Cayenne Hybrid shouldn’t expect the hard-hitting acceleration of a fully electric car.
• When accelerating again from a stop, the response isn’t as immediate as in an EV; there’s a slight pause before the power comes in.

Mountain-Road Performance and PDK [27:03]

• The PDK shifts up quickly, but downshifts—particularly from third to second—feel as if they take a moment.
• Downshifts are slightly slower than with a conventional PDK, as the transmission works to coordinate with the electric motor.
• The test car had PASM, a no-cost option, and suspension that sits 1 cm (0.4 in) higher than standard. The ride was comfortable.
• The handling is mild-mannered and closer to a Carrera T; it doesn’t have the GT3-like sharpness of the previous-generation 992.

Engine Note and Sound Character [30:09]

• It’s considerably quieter than the previous Carrera GTS, with the midrange frequencies standing out most.
• Rather than the broad spread of low-to-high notes you get from a naturally aspirated engine, the sound is concentrated in the midrange.
• The sound isn’t unpleasant, though some drivers may wish for more bass or treble.
• Switching on the sport exhaust gives the sound a freer, more open character, but the difference isn’t as pronounced as it was on the previous model.

High-Speed Stability and Braking [33:33]

• It feels exceptionally stable in a straight line at speed, with none of the wandering you might expect. It’s a definite improvement over the previous model.
• Overall, the car seems to have taken on more of a grand touring character.
• The test car was fitted with PCCB. Brake feel was just like that of a traditional 911, with no adjustment needed.
• In third gear at 5,000 rpm, the car is traveling at 105 km/h (65 mph). That’s higher than the GT3’s 90 km/h (56 mph), but lower than the 981’s 115 km/h (71 mph).

Overall Verdict on the T-Hybrid [35:57]

• The host wouldn’t buy one while already owning a Taycan. It falls short of the Taycan GT in low-speed torque, ease of use, and chassis performance.
• That said, it’s a good choice as a first GT car for someone who doesn’t already own a 911.
• It should suit drivers who like the character of AMG or Audi RS models. For nimble fun on mountain roads, the Carrera T is the recommendation.
• For drivers who spend most of their time in town or on the highway, the new Carrera GTS T-Hybrid is a strong choice.

Must-Have 911 Options: Seats [39:54]

• Seat ventilation is an absolute must—and more important than heated seats.
• Ventilated seats make summer driving much more comfortable. You can always dress warmly when it’s cold.
• The 18-way seats are also recommended. Their finer adjustments help improve comfort.
• The Porsche crest embossed on the headrests is another detail that adds to the sense of occasion.

Must-Have 911 Options: Performance [41:51]

• Sport Chrono is a must. You may only use it on the track or mountain roads, but you’ll still want it.
• Once you’ve driven a car with PCCB, it’s hard to go back. The brakes deliver strong stopping power and keep wheel dust to a minimum—well worth ¥1.5 million.
• On special models such as the Spyder RS, if you’re going that far, you should opt for PCCB.
• Rear-axle steering makes a big difference to the way the car drives and offers practical benefits, too.

Must-Have 911 Options: Comfort and Convenience [44:45]

• A heated steering wheel is highly recommended—put it ahead of heated seats.
• In winter, even when you’re bundled up, your hands are only separated from the wheel by a thin pair of gloves. A warm steering wheel makes a big difference.
• A front-axle lift is essential for cars with less ground clearance than the Carrera T. It helps you manage the entrances at a wide range of gas stations.
• Choose Matrix LED headlights for their looks and improved nighttime visibility. They’re recommended if you drive on rural highways, but less necessary in the city.

Must-Have 911 Options: Interior and Exterior [48:18]

• Leather trim on the steering-column casing is a personal indulgence, but it makes a big difference to the interior’s appearance.
• One caveat: bright stitching can reflect in the instrument cluster.
• For a cleaner, more stylish look, skip the privacy glass and go with clear glass. It works especially well with a Cognac interior.
• A sunroof is recommended for more luxury-oriented models, but not for lightweight-focused cars such as the Carrera T or GT3.

Coming Next: Cayenne and Macan Options [1:07:11]

• Next time, the show will take a closer look at options for the Cayenne and Macan.
• The discussion will explore how to choose options from a perspective that differs from the 911.
• The next episode is scheduled to stream on Saturday or Sunday.