A base version of Stuttgart’s signature product too insipid; the GTS T-hybrid not quite your thing either? An in-betweener is coming.

POTENTIALLY the last of the Porsche 911s to steer clear of hybrid assistance will land in New Zealand later this year.

The Carrera S that is set to price from $321,900 in Coupe format and $336,900 as a cabriolet is being described by the national distributor has being the most dynamic of that genre.

Now based on the design of the 911 Turbo models of the previous generation, and slipping below the GTS T-hybrid, the new variant continues with a 3.0-litre twin turbo flat six, but power of 353kW represents as a 22kW increase. Torque is 530Nm.

Increased performance and efficiency comes from it having new turbochargers and an extensive optimisation of the charge-air cooling, among other things.

The outputs are now a match for the outgoing GTS, filling the gap between the 290kW/450Nm base Carrera, and GTS T-Hybrid, which takes a 398kW/610Nm 3.6-litre single-turbo flat-six and electric motor.

The Carrera S Coupe remains the fastest edition. It is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100 kmh in 3.3 seconds - compared to 3.7s previously - and, as before, reach a top speed of 308 kmh.

While a seven-speed manual offers overseas, it appears the NZ distributor has determined to equip with the alternate eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK).

Standard equipment runs to a staggered tyre fitment with 20/21-inch Carrera S wheels, a sports exhaust system with tailpipes in silver, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which is not available in the Carrera and comes from the previous GTS.

It identifies with red brake callipers and discs measuring 408 millimetres at the front and 380 mm on the rear. Optional are the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system and the PASM sports suspension, which features a 10-millimetre-lower ride height combined with rear-wheel steering.

A black leather interior is standard, with contrast stitching a cost extra. The model achieves Matrix LED headlights, with HD-Matrix as a cost extra, and a wireless smartphone charger. A lift system for the front axle and the Sport Chrono package including the Porsche Track Precision app also avail.

It is not clear if all the body styling elements from the previous Turbo transfer to the S, but last year the maker gave the 911 a light nip and tuck in an attempt to keep the 992-generation fresh as it moves into its twilight years.