With the launch of the first 992 model of the 911 GT3 in 2021, Porsche affirmed its vision for the GT3 as a more track-focused setup, holding on to the essence of a 911: rear-wheel drive, natural aspiration, and a great deal of fun. It’s a motto they’re clearly sticking to with the recent launch of the 992.2, albeit with emissions regulations in check. Also launched was the Touring variant of the 911 GT3, now offered with rear seats for those who need them, yet retaining the classic brutal performance fans love the marque for.
Launched in Malaysia at the Sepang International Circuit, the 992.2 might bemuse those unfamiliar with its predecessor, as both models share a similar design and the same 503bhp engine. This is where the Touring variant comes in, removing the rear wing and adding rear seats, giving regular drivers the fun of a race car in a more ‘practical’ format.
In truth, most of the innovation of the 992.2 lies under the hood, in the reengineering performed to maintain those numbers under the eyes of the European Commission. The 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six now features four catalysts to keep it compliant with emissions rules, with hotter cams (from the GT3 RS), ‘flow-optimised individual throttle valves’, and optimised coolers making up for what they sap away. Peak torque, however, has fallen from 470Nm to 450Nm, which is where the eight per cent shorter gear ratios on both the seven-speed dual-clutch (PDK) and the six-speed GT manual transmissions come in, keeping the car accelerating just as hard as before: 0–100km/hr in 3.4 and 3.9 seconds, albeit with a slightly lower top speed of 311 and 313km/hr on the PDK and manual cars, respectively.
Interior
Although outright acceleration figures remain largely unchanged, Porsche’s engineers have channelled their efforts into elevating the GT3’s prowess through corners and bends. Adapted from the GT3 RS, the anti-dive geometry and bespoke teardrop-shaped trailing arms on the 992.2’s double-wishbone front axle aim to maintain downforce balance, even under heavy braking. The dampers, on the other hand, have been retuned to enable even better control over bumps and kerbs. All this makes for a revamp that “instils even greater confidence in the car because it responds more calmly from the centre position without losing any of its directness,” rally legend and brand ambassador Walter Röhrl said in a statement.
Exterior
The tweaks were put to the test by former Daytona winner Jörg Bergmeister, who set a new lap record for a manual car at the Nürburgring Nordschleife at 6 minutes 56.294 seconds. This feat beats the previous record holder by nearly 10 seconds, and the PDK dual-clutch transmission of the 992.1 model by 3.63 seconds. “The new anti-dive system, which noticeably reduces the pitching movement when braking, results in a car significantly more consistent at balancing under all conditions,” said Bergmeister, who was present at the launch in Sepang. The event also hosted the winners of the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia 2025 and the Porsche Club Malaysia, who were treated to a masterclass courtesy of Sime Darby Auto Performance.
The 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 Touring are now available from RM2,290,000, inclusive of duties but excluding options and on-the-road costs.
