Photo credit: arstechnica.com
Porsche 911 GT3 Touring: A Comprehensive Drive Review
The Porsche 911 GT3 Touring demonstrates a refined balance between performance and comfort, particularly visible during braking thanks to its anti-dive front suspension. Both Normal and Sport damper settings are optimized for handling rugged back roads, providing a smooth ride without completely sacrificing sportiness. While the GT3 Touring performs well on highways, the engine may produce a monotonous drone at steady RPMs, revealing that this model excels more in spirited driving conditions than in open-road cruising.
Drivers should remain attentive when navigating slippery surfaces at low speeds, as excessive throttle can lead to unexpected behavior in these conditions.
In a significant design choice, the GT3 Touring forgoes the prominent gooseneck rear wing, opting instead for an active rear spoiler. This choice aligns it more closely with the aesthetics of the standard 992 generation 911 models, creating a subtler and arguably more visually appealing profile when the spoiler is retracted.
On twisting mountain routes, the GT3 Touring truly comes alive. The car feels exhilarating in second and third gears, lending itself perfectly to the conditions. The engine’s distinctive howl, particularly between 7,000 and 9,000 RPM, is a hallmark of Porsche’s naturally aspirated flat-sixes. While competitors may rely on explosive sounds with pops and bangs, the GT3’s allure arises from its high-revving capabilities—reaching a thrilling 9,000 RPM redline.
During our test drive, Porsche advised keeping traction control and electronic stability control engaged, which proved prudent given the muddy and uncertain state of the roads, remnants of recent severe flooding. Even with these aids in place, the rear wheels could briefly lose grip with heavy throttle application. However, the car remains manageable, making it accessible even for drivers with moderate skill levels.
Post-lunch, the GT3 was taken to the Ricardo Torno circuit for a performance evaluation. On the track, the car showcased remarkably neutral handling through most corners, with a touch of understeer in the slow second turn. A lightweight build combined with over 500 horsepower contributes to impressive acceleration, but it was the braking performance that truly stood out, allowing for heavy pedal application without fading or compromising body control. The GT3 provides an enjoyable driving experience that caters to both seasoned enthusiasts and those less experienced, reflecting a significant evolution from earlier 911 models that were notorious for their more erratic handling characteristics.
Source
arstechnica.com