First Impressions of the 992 Late Model – Preserving the Crisp Driving Feel

My spouse and I had the opportunity to drive the latest 992 late-model Porsche 911 Carrera together.
The first thing that caught our attention was the quietness at idle after starting the engine. The moment the engine fired up, it felt surprisingly smooth with less vibration than expected, giving a very calm impression.

Taking it out for a short drive around town, the ride retained the “dry” feel rather than the “smooth and plush” sensation of the early 992 model.

When asked if it had become “milder,” honestly, at this point, we didn’t feel much difference.

Compared to the previous early 992 model, the late 992 certainly offers a more comfortable ride, but the difference feels only about 10%. The characteristic ruggedness and solid feel that define the 911 remain intact. If you buy this car expecting a luxurious coupe based on the common use of the word “mild,” you’re likely to be disappointed.

Interior and Quietness – The Evolving Comfort of the 911

The 911’s positioning has subtly shifted.

The quietness and reduced vibration at idle clearly reflect design changes focused on comfort. While the early 992 didn’t have strong vibrations either, it carried a tense “let’s drive” vibe. In contrast, the late 992 creates an atmosphere so calm at a stop that you might almost forget you’re in a 911. This is likely due to reduced micro-vibrations and quieter idling.

The interior design is mostly unchanged from the early model, but the fully digital instrument cluster adds a clear touch of refinement. This particular car also features optional design elements reminiscent of the 930 Turbo, and the seats and interior exude a stylish vibe. However, even without spending extra on these decorative touches, the essential charm of the 911’s interior remains uncompromised.

Changes in Driving Feel – Cornering, Sound, and Acceleration Impressions

Driving on winding roads gradually revealed differences from the early model.

Most notably, the cornering feel. The early model had a sharp, tight turn-in reminiscent of a GT3, but the late model tends to drift slightly outward. It feels like some of the force is lost, lacking a bit of that sharpness. This sensation is probably why many describe it as “mild.”

However, if this mildness is meant for mountain roads, we felt that the ride around town could have been made even milder. The late 992 is indeed milder, but the balance between mountain and city mildness differs. Compared to the early model, the mountain roads feel about 20% milder, while city driving only about 10% milder.

Regarding sound, there’s no major difference in volume, but the tone has changed. The early model had a solid “Gwooon!” roar, while the late model’s sound is closer to a “Bwooon,” somewhat muffled and clinging to the ears more than before. Bubbling sounds are almost absent. This change likely results from noise and environmental regulations affecting the exhaust system, including the presence or absence of GPFs.

Also, during very low-speed re-acceleration—such as restarting at intersections or overtaking stopped cars—the late model clearly feels slower to build torque compared to the early model. While not as pronounced as the S or GTS early models, the quick throttle response and light-footed acceleration that were the early Carrera’s greatest strengths seem somewhat diminished. This might be due to using the turbocharger from the early GTS model, but as owners of the early model, this was noticeable to us. (It’s only obvious when compared directly.)

Handling – Not a 911 Anyone Can Drive Fast

Overall, the handling gave us a first impression of being somewhat “blurry” compared to the early model.

Regarding the PDK transmission, while upshifts remain lightning-fast compared to the early model, downshift response feels slightly delayed. This may contribute to the overall “blurry” impression.

I still haven’t fully digested the concept behind this late 992’s design.

Since the early model was so sharp and sporty, is this a reaction to that? Or is it aiming for the milder feel of the 996 generation? Or perhaps the late 992’s main focus is the newly developed T-hybrid GTS model, so the Carrera was deliberately detuned to draw attention to the GTS?

The truth is unclear, but it’s obvious that the late model has taken a significantly different direction from the early one.

On the other hand, switching to Sport Plus mode and driving more aggressively brings the “blurry” feeling sharply into focus.
It’s almost like the early 991 Carrera without PASM. At normal speeds, it feels mild and you might think “Is this what a 911 is like?” But once you push it hard, it transforms. It fully responds to the driver’s weight transfer inputs and tears through winding roads like a fish in water.

This is the character the late 992 possesses.

Simply turning the steering wheel in the late model results in just normal cornering. Unlike the early model, where just turning the wheel allowed anyone to drive fast and sharp, this one seems deliberately designed to prevent that. It feels like it was made “for experts” who can unlock its true potential through skilled sports driving.

Overall Assessment – Balancing Evolution and Tradition

The 992 late-model 911 Carrera shifts the balance between comfort and performance. Quietness and reduced vibration at idle have clearly improved, and the interior quality has been enhanced. Meanwhile, the sharpness of handling and the edge in the exhaust note feel slightly softened.

Ultimately, the late 992 Carrera represents a significant change in direction from the early model. Its “911-ness” might be a return to roots, aiming for the feel of the 996 or early 997 generation. The balance between everyday usability and sports car excitement will be judged differently depending on individual preferences. If the early and late models had been released in reverse order, our evaluation would likely be completely different. Personally, while I understand this evolution, I still find the sharpness and direct feedback of the early model deeply appealing.

If possible, I’d like to experience the late 992’s flagship GTS model before drawing a final conclusion about the late 992 series.