MOTOR-ZOOM
The GT3 has always been a staple of the 911 family, but surprisingly, it’s been 25 years since the original debuted. So to celebrate, Porsche is introducing two new versions tied to the 911’s mid-cycle “992.2” refresh. Say hello to the 2025 911 GT3 and its more streamlined sibling, the 911 GT3 with Touring Package.
Not much has changed—it’s a fairly mild refresh. We’re talking about some new customization options, subtle chassis tweaks, and additional personalization features. The naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine remains unchanged, still making 502 horsepower at 9,000 rpm. This car is still a road-legal weapon, and Porsche is keen to remind us of that, even if the changes under the skin are somewhat restrained.
As always, though, the devil is in the details. So, here are some things about the new GT3 and its simpler sibling, the Touring model without wings.
There’s still a manual transmission option
When the 992.2 launched earlier this year, some were worried that it would be the end of the manual transmission in the 911. However, while the launch models may not have had the option, it has been confirmed that future versions will be available with a manual.
However, we can all breathe a sigh of relief because both the 2025 911 GT3 and GT3 Touring will still be available with a six-speed manual transmission. Of course, the seven-speed PDK transmission will remain available, but some tweaks have been made.
Reduced torque
While the NA 4.0-liter engine may seem fairly unchanged, the engine’s torque is actually down compared to its predecessor — albeit by a very small amount. The outgoing 911 made 346 lb-ft (470 Nm) of torque, while the new engine’s torque is up to 331 lb-ft. Thankfully, power remains the same, with 502 hp at startup.
Emissions regulations can be blamed for the slight drop in torque. Porsche says it had to work hard to keep the car compliant with the new, more stringent regulations but managed to do so without impacting the engine’s 9,000 rpm redline — and for that, we applaud it.
Performance? The car is still strong, with the PDK-equipped version hitting 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.2 seconds, while the manual version does so in 3.7 seconds. Top speeds? 199 mph (311 km/h) for the PDK and 199 mph (314 km/h) for the manual.
The engine has been slightly modified.
To meet these emissions regulations, the new 911 is a platinum thief’s dream. Porsche had to install a new exhaust system consisting of four catalytic converters and two particulate filters. To further improve the car’s engine, the cylinder heads were revised and the camshaft profiles changed.
Other small, innovative improvements include new oil coolers and throttle bodies with improved butterfly valves. Even with a slight drop in torque, the engine still offers 502 horsepower and a redline of 9,000 rpm.
Suspension and gearbox tuning for “curvy roads”
Another small but significant change to the 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 is that the final drive of the gearbox is now eight percent shorter. But our natural assumption is that this is a direct result of the reduced torque.
However, Porsche PR and Mr. Walter Roll say that the shorter ratio means the car is better for driving on country roads. To add to that, the 2025 GT3 has revised damper settings, while the steering is said to be more positive. It’s also supposed to be better at driving over kerbs on the track. Speaking of which…
There’s still plenty of focus on the track
The 911 GT3’s philosophy is that it’s a track car for the road, so it’s no surprise that it offers plenty of track-ready and track-optimized features.
The interior features a new digital instrument cluster that displays important track data such as tire pressure, oil levels, and shift timing. The aerodynamics of the updated car have also been improved to improve power Downforce and airflow. Oh, and don’t miss the teardrop-shaped rear axles—they’re specifically designed to help cool the brakes and improve handling.
Weight reduction for more agility
Those who like to shed extra pounds will be able to take advantage of more options that will further lighten the 2025 Porsche 911 GT3. Yes, that means the Weissach Package is coming to the GT3. That’ll give you a carbon-fiber roof, rear wing end panels, exterior mirror housings, mirror triangles, and front aero blades. The anti-roll bar, connecting rods, and rear axle shear plate are also made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. And if that wasn’t enough, the interior of the car also gets a weight-saving treatment, with the door handles and storage nets treated in carbon.
And those who want a GT3 without wings won’t be left behind. The GT3 Touring gets the Lightweight (Leichtbau) Package option. It’s largely similar to the Weissach package, with the same carbon elements except for the wing panels, mirrors, air blades, door handles, and storage nets. However, the Lightweight package comes with lightweight door panels and, if you’re a three-pedal person, a shorter gear lever, borrowed from the 911 S/T.
But you don’t have to settle for lightweight. There’s a new lightweight 40-amp-hour lithium-ion battery that shaves about 9.9 pounds from the previous model’s standard 60-amp-hour. New lightweight aluminum wheels save 3.3 pounds of unsprung mass, while the wheels increase Optional magnesium adds 20 pounds to that savings.
More seats, or less—the choice is yours
For the first time, the 911 GT3 Touring offers a glimpse of more practicality by letting you choose your rear seats. There are also new (and optional, of course) carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger. These seats are aimed at those who like to track their cars, and feature removable headrest padding to accommodate a helmeted driver. If you prefer more comfort and luxury, you can still opt for 18-way adjustable sports seats.
Return of the traditional key
Yes, Porsche has been listening to your feedback and has given in to the collective outcry that the community complained about when they discovered that the 911s would not start at the push of a button. Thankfully, that’s not the case for the GT3 and GT3 Touring, which welcome the return of the traditional key. I mean, they had to for the model’s 25th anniversary, right?
Porsche Design is also celebrating things with an exclusive watch. It features a COSC-certified Porsche Design WERK 01.200 movement, a GT3-designed dial with yellow accents, and a hexagonal structure that’s supposed to mimic the car’s instrument panel.
Starting at $225,000
Are you ready to get your hands on one? The new Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 Touring will be available to order by the end of the year, with deliveries scheduled for summer 2025. Prices start at $222,500. That’s a hefty sum, to be sure, but there’s no doubt that many enthusiasts will be more than willing to pay that — if not a lot more than the retail price.
