VERDICT
Hybrid tech punts barnstorming Carrera into the supercar sphere
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The story of this latest Carrera GTS has two distinct elements. One relates to the name itself, and the kind of car it represents. What started as a parts-bin special (albeit an immensely lovable one) in the late-2000s, then for years occupied something of a bitpart role in the broader 911 line-up, has suddenly become the most headstrong, exciting and individualistic derivative with the possible exception of the GT3 RS. Today, the GTS is arguably the Platonic ideal of the modern road-going Porsche 911: thrilling but usable. The second element is the advent of the T-Hybrid powertrain. One can’t help wondering if simply having the 3.6-litre engine in atmospheric form and making do with less power would result in a sweeter driver’s car (it would mean a lighter one, certainly). However, if regulations are ushering the 911 onto a hybrid path, this is a sensitive way to do it.