The 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S is an exercise in launch control-induced frenzy, where the driver's sole focus is on unleashing the beast. With the Sport Response button activated, the tachometer twitching with anticipation, and the brake released, the car launches like a shot, leaving all else behind.
This new Turbo isn't without the help of electrification, as it boasts a hybrid powertrain consisting of two electrically assisted turbos, an electric motor within the eight-speed dual-clutch transaxle, and a small lithium-ion battery pack. These combine to produce 701 horsepower, 61 more ponies than before, and 590 pound-feet of torque that matches that of the previous Turbo S.
Witnessing this car's retina-separating acceleration is awe-inspiring, with a 0.8-second shot to 30 mph and 60 mph arriving in 2.0 seconds, a tenth quicker than the last Turbo S. The quarter-mile evaporates in 9.7 seconds at 142 mph, besting the Lightweight by 0.2 second and 3 mph.
The added heft comes primarily from the hybrid system, which tips the scales at 3833 pounds, weighing a 267-pound linebacker more than the former Lightweight and is 187 pounds heavier than the previous non-Lightweight.
This Turbo S presents a compelling case that no amount of weight is insurmountable—you just need more power. The new hybrid powertrain pays dividends at the test track, it also proves beneficial where it matters even more: the real world.
In the 5-to-60-mph rolling start, a test that removes the benefit of a launch-control start, the new Turbo S is a monstrous 0.9 second quicker than before, aided by the electric motor and quick-to-spool e-turbos that mitigate lag.
The responsiveness shoots you around like a carrier in a pneumatic tube, with the Turbo S pulling like an electric vehicle but with audible theatrics from the flat-six and invigorating gearshifts from the dual-clutch gearbox.
When it's time for a speed check, the standard carbon-ceramic brakes with 16.5-inch front rotors and 16.1-inch rears feel like you've dropped an anchor and a plow, delivering impressive braking performance.
Dive deep into a corner, and the Turbo S has your back, with the electrohydraulic Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control's active anti-roll-bar links tap into the 400-volt system, making them more powerful and quicker to react to counter body movements.
The Pirelli P Zero R tires dig in at 1.12 g's on the skidpad, adding fantastic steering feedback and predictable chassis control, making the Turbo S simply a cheat code for hauling ass.
The 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S represents a compelling case that no amount of weight is insurmountable with enough power.
