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When Porsche unveiled the 992.2 Cabriolet, the world expected a blend of heritage and innovation. The new convertible keeps the iconic rear‑engine layout while introducing a host of modern upgrades that promise to make the 911’s open‑top experience both thrilling and practical. For enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, the 992.2 offers a fresh take on a classic, and this review dives into what that means on paper and on the road.
Design and Practicality
The 992.2 Cabriolet arrives with a refreshed exterior that feels both familiar and forward‑looking. A new single‑turbo 3.6‑litre flat‑six powers the GTS, while the Carrera and Carrera T models receive modest turbo upgrades that add 9 hp and 30 hp respectively. The car’s weight ranges from 1,580 kg to 1,725 kg, a modest increase that does little to hurt efficiency. In the UK, the base model starts at roughly "£110,000", with the GTS and S variants pushing the price higher.
Inside, Porsche has replaced the old faux‑key with a discrete starter button, and the twin‑screen layout now sits behind a 12.6‑inch curved display. A new mode dial on the steering wheel gives drivers quick access to launch control and the sports‑response button, while the "sports chrono pack" remains an optional add‑on for those who want the ultimate acceleration.
Practicality is a key selling point for the convertible. The roof can be lowered at speeds up to 31 mph, and the system is designed to keep noise at bay even on the motorway. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel make winter drives comfortable, and the adaptive LED headlights, lane‑keep assist, and traffic‑sign recognition give the car a modern safety package that feels reassuring rather than intrusive.
Powertrain and Performance
The 992.2’s powertrains are a mix of tradition and technology. The Carrera and Carrera T models are powered by a twin‑turbo flat‑six that delivers 389 bhp, while the GTS steps up to 536 bhp thanks to a single turbocharged 3.6‑litre engine that incorporates electric motors on the turbine shaft and gearbox to reduce lag and boost performance. The GTS is the only 911 variant with four‑wheel drive, giving it a 0‑62 mph time of just 3.1 seconds in ideal conditions.
The manual gearbox in the T model is the slowest, with a 0‑62 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The Carrera, when equipped with the sports‑chrono pack, reaches 0‑62 mph in 4.1 seconds, while the S variant clocks 3.5 seconds. These figures show that the 992.2 remains a serious contender in the high‑performance segment, with the GTS offering a level of speed that rivals the GT3.
Fuel economy is respectable for a sports car. According to WLTP figures, the Carrera achieves a best of 28 mpg on the combined cycle, while the S and GTS models can exceed 30 mpg on a motorway run. The hybrid boost in the GTS also helps keep emissions down, with the car emitting 230 g/km when drivers avoid aggressive acceleration.
Driving Dynamics and Handling
On the road, the 992.2 feels like a slightly heavier, less rigid coupe, but the chassis still delivers the classic 911 feel. The new adaptive dampers offer a broader spread of damping force, and the steering remains precise with no noticeable shake from the column. The roof’s operation up to 31 mph keeps wind noise manageable, and the car’s noise level is only marginally higher than the coupe when the roof is down.
Launch control is more aggressive than expected, especially on dry roads, but the GTS’s four‑wheel drive keeps the car from losing traction even on treacherous tarmac. The GTS’s power delivery is more linear than the naturally aspirated Carrera, giving it a smoother acceleration curve. The Carrera still offers a thrilling experience, with a sports exhaust that sounds good without being overly ferocious.
The PDK gearbox is smooth in normal use, with rapid gear changes and a manual override that behaves as expected. The car’s handling is aided by the new brakes, which have grown in size, and the overall body control feels impeccable, especially when the sport mode is engaged.
Practical Considerations for UK Owners
For UK drivers, the 992.2 Cabriolet offers a balance of performance and everyday usability. The car’s all‑weather capability is bolstered by heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a robust safety suite that includes parking sensors and a rear‑view camera. The roof’s ability to be lowered at 31 mph means that drivers can enjoy open‑top driving without compromising safety.
However, the price point is a significant consideration. Starting at "£110,000", the base model is already a premium purchase, and the GTS and S variants add to the cost. The rear seats are cramped, a common issue in the 911 range, and the convertible’s additional weight can affect handling dynamics compared to the coupe.
Despite these drawbacks, the 992.2 Cabriolet remains a compelling choice for those who want the iconic 911 experience with modern conveniences and a more practical, all‑weather package.
The 992.2 Cabriolet proves that Porsche can evolve the 911 without losing its soul. With upgraded powertrains, a refreshed interior, and a host of modern tech, the new convertible delivers a thrilling drive that feels both familiar and fresh. For UK owners, the car’s practicality and safety features make it a sensible, if pricey, option in the high‑performance convertible market.