Today, at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, Germany, Porsche introduced an exciting new variant of the iconic 911—the 2026 911 Turbo S. This latest model stands out as the most powerful 911 to date, excluding limited-run editions, and boasts astonishing acceleration, reaching 60 mph from a complete stop in just 2.4 seconds. This remarkable performance is largely attributed to one of the most innovative hybrid powertrains currently available on the market.
Unlike traditional methods of adding an electric motor to an existing engine, Porsche has engineered an entirely new 3.6 L flat-six engine for the 911 Turbo S. This design choice allows for the elimination of the conventional belt drive, enabling the relocation of various ancillary components to be powered by the vehicle's 400 V traction battery. This advanced hybrid system was first introduced in the 911 GTS T-Hybrid, which has received positive reviews for its innovative features.
The key feature of this hybrid powertrain is the inclusion of a single electric turbocharger, which operates similarly to the MGU-H found in Formula 1 cars. This electric turbocharger can spin up to an impressive 120,000 rpm almost instantly, effectively eliminating throttle lag. Additionally, it captures excess energy generated by the spinning turbine, transferring it to the 1.9 kWh battery pack. The result is a turbocharged engine that offers exceptional throttle response, akin to that of an electric vehicle, with virtually no delay in power delivery to the wheels.
For the new 2026 911 Turbo S, Porsche has integrated a pair of these advanced electric turbochargers. This model also features a 53 hp (40 kW) and 110 lb-ft (150 Nm) permanent synchronous motor housed within its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The impressive total output reaches a staggering 701 hp (523 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds. Moreover, it can reach 124 mph (200 km/h) in only 8.4 seconds—half a second quicker than the previous 2025 Turbo S.
Despite the 911 Turbo S weighing an additional 180 lbs (82 kg), it has proven to be significantly faster around the renowned Nürburgring Nordschleife, completing the 12.9-mile (20.8 km) circuit in just 7 minutes and 3.92 seconds—a remarkable 14 seconds faster than its predecessor. Porsche test driver Jörg Bergmeister noted that the vehicle's added weight is hardly noticeable; in fact, the car exhibits enhanced agility, increased grip, and superior speed across all critical sections of the track.
The 400 V hybrid system has also allowed Porsche to introduce new electrohydraulic anti-roll bars that react significantly faster than the hydraulic systems found in non-hybrid 911s. This technology enhances the overall driving experience, making the 911 Turbo S the most complete and versatile version of the Porsche 911 to date. Whether for daily commutes, long-distance highway travel, or track days, the new 911 Turbo S has been meticulously designed to offer greater comfort, customization, and improved performance compared to its predecessor. Frank Moser, Porsche’s vice president of the 911 and 718 model lines, emphasized this by stating, "We have been able to make the new 911 Turbo S even more comfortable, more customizable, and at the same time significantly faster."
However, such extraordinary performance and technology come at a premium. The starting price for the 911 Turbo S coupe is set at $270,300, while the Cabriolet version starts at $284,300. Porsche has announced that deliveries are expected to commence in the spring, making this an exciting prospect for car enthusiasts and Porsche aficionados alike.
