Porsche 911 Carrera S (2017) Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S review. If you're anything like me, you've probably dreamt about owning a Porsche at some point. The 911, in particular, is an iconic car that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts for decades. But does the 2017 Carrera S live up to the hype? Is it worth the hefty price tag? We're going to break it all down, from performance and handling to interior comfort and technology, so you can make an informed decision. Buckle up; it's going to be a fun ride!

Performance and Handling: A Thrilling Experience

When it comes to the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S, the performance is genuinely breathtaking. Under the hood lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, pumping out 420 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This isn't just a paper statistic; you feel every bit of that power when you put your foot down. The acceleration is blistering, with the car capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in just around 3.7 seconds with the PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) transmission and the Sport Chrono Package. Even without those enhancements, it’s still seriously quick.

Handling is where the Carrera S truly shines. Porsche has always been known for its precise and responsive steering, and the 2017 model is no exception. The car feels incredibly planted and balanced, whether you're carving through mountain roads or navigating tight city streets. The optional rear-axle steering enhances agility, making the car feel smaller and more nimble than it actually is. The brakes are phenomenal, providing confident stopping power even under hard use. Driving the Carrera S is an engaging and rewarding experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. The combination of raw power, exceptional handling, and responsive feedback makes it a true driver's car.

Moreover, the driving modes allow you to tailor the car's behavior to your liking. From the comfortable and efficient 'Normal' mode to the aggressive 'Sport' and 'Sport Plus' modes, you can easily adjust the throttle response, suspension settings, and shift points to suit your driving style and the road conditions. The optional Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) further enhances the ride quality, providing a smooth and controlled experience, even on less-than-perfect surfaces. All in all, the performance and handling of the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S are top-notch, offering a thrilling and engaging driving experience that few cars can match.

Interior and Comfort: Luxury Meets Sportiness

Stepping inside the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S, you're immediately greeted with a cabin that blends luxury and sportiness seamlessly. The seats are comfortable and supportive, perfect for both long drives and spirited cornering. High-quality materials are used throughout the interior, with leather, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents adding to the premium feel. The driving position is excellent, offering a clear view of the road and easy access to all the essential controls.

The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and a variety of other features. The optional Bose or Burmester sound systems provide exceptional audio quality, making every drive a pleasure. While the rear seats are quite small and best suited for children or extra storage, the front seats offer plenty of room for adults. The overall fit and finish are superb, reflecting Porsche's commitment to quality and attention to detail. Practicality might not be the 911's primary focus, but it does offer a decent amount of storage space in the front trunk (or frunk), enough for a weekend getaway.

Furthermore, the customization options allow you to personalize the interior to your exact tastes. From different leather colors and stitching patterns to various trim options and technology packages, you can create a Carrera S that truly reflects your personality. The climate control system is effective at keeping the cabin comfortable, and the available heated and ventilated seats add an extra layer of luxury. While some may find the interior design to be a bit conservative compared to some of its rivals, it's undeniably well-built and functional. In summary, the interior of the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S offers a comfortable and luxurious environment that complements its sporty character perfectly.

Technology and Features: Modern Conveniences

The 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S isn't just about raw power and stunning looks; it's also packed with technology and features designed to enhance your driving experience. The infotainment system is a standout, offering a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with your smartphone. Apple CarPlay is standard, allowing you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts using Siri voice control. The navigation system is accurate and provides real-time traffic updates, helping you avoid congestion and reach your destination quickly. The optional Porsche Connect app adds even more functionality, allowing you to remotely access vehicle information, lock and unlock the doors, and even track your car's location.

Driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, which help to keep you safe on the road. The optional park assist system makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you. The 2017 Carrera S also comes standard with Porsche Stability Management (PSM), which helps to prevent wheelspin and maintain control in slippery conditions. The Sport Chrono Package adds a stopwatch on the dashboard and a 'Sport Plus' mode, which sharpens the throttle response and suspension settings for maximum performance.

Moreover, the digital instrument cluster provides a wealth of information, including speed, engine RPM, oil temperature, and more. The display is clear and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. The optional LED headlights provide excellent visibility at night, while the automatic high beams adjust to oncoming traffic. Overall, the technology and features in the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S are well-integrated and enhance both the driving experience and the overall ownership experience. It's a modern sports car that doesn't compromise on convenience or connectivity.

Potential Drawbacks

Alright, guys, let's keep it real. The 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S is an amazing car, but it's not perfect. One of the most significant drawbacks is the price. With a starting MSRP well over $100,000, it's not exactly an affordable option for most people. And that's before you start adding options, which can quickly inflate the price even further. The rear seats are also quite small, making them impractical for adults on anything other than short journeys. If you need a car that can comfortably accommodate four passengers, the 911 probably isn't the best choice.

Another potential issue is the engine sound. While the twin-turbocharged flat-six is powerful and responsive, some enthusiasts may miss the raw, naturally aspirated sound of older 911 models. The new engine sounds good, but it's not quite as visceral as its predecessors. Fuel economy is also not great, especially if you have a heavy foot. Expect to average around 20 mpg in mixed driving, which is not terrible for a sports car, but it's not exactly economical either.

Furthermore, the maintenance costs can be high. Porsche parts and service tend to be more expensive than those for mainstream brands. If you're planning to track your Carrera S regularly, you'll need to factor in the cost of tires, brakes, and other consumables. Finally, some may find the infotainment system to be a bit dated compared to those in newer cars. While it's functional and easy to use, it's not as visually appealing or feature-rich as some of its competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S remains a highly desirable sports car that offers an unparalleled driving experience.

Is the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S Worth It?

So, is the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S worth it? That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Well, let's weigh the pros and cons. On the one hand, you're getting a car with incredible performance, razor-sharp handling, and a luxurious interior. It's a thrill to drive, whether you're on a winding road or a race track. The 911 is also an iconic car with a rich history and a strong following. Owning one is a statement, a symbol of success and good taste.

On the other hand, the Carrera S is expensive, both to buy and to maintain. The rear seats are cramped, and the engine sound may not appeal to everyone. Fuel economy is not great, and the infotainment system is a bit dated. Ultimately, whether or not the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S is worth it depends on your individual priorities and circumstances. If you're a driving enthusiast who values performance, handling, and prestige above all else, then the answer is probably yes. If you need a practical family car or are on a tight budget, then there are likely better options out there.

In conclusion, the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S is a fantastic sports car that offers an unparalleled driving experience. It's not perfect, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you can afford it and are willing to live with its compromises, you'll be rewarded with a car that will bring you joy for years to come. Just be prepared to answer the question, "Is it worth it?" every time someone sees you driving it!