All posts by Francis Mitterrand

News

Porsche Expands 911 Lineup with New All-Wheel-Drive Carrera 4S Models

In a move that both celebrates tradition and embraces innovation, Porsche has expanded its legendary 911 family with the introduction of the new Carrera 4S models—now available in coupé, cabriolet, and Targa 4S forms. These additions bring the number of all-wheel-drive 911 derivatives to six, offering customers more choice than ever before in configuring their ideal sports car.

Timed perfectly with the 60th anniversary of the 911 Targa, the updated lineup also pays tribute to a model born out of necessity and transformed into an icon. Originally dubbed the “safety cabriolet” for the American market, the Targa’s unique blend of open-air freedom and coupé-style comfort has been reimagined over six decades—and now stands proudly with two AWD variants.

A Sharper, Smarter, More Confident Carrera 4S

Porsche’s latest Carrera 4S range slots just below the high-performance GTS models, delivering everyday usability with thrilling capability. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, the new 911 Carrera 4S delivers 353 kW (480 PS)—a 30 PS increase over its predecessor—thanks in part to a revised intercooler system borrowed from the 911 Turbo. The result? Sharper throttle response, improved cooling, and a driving experience steeped in emotional engagement.

Performance figures underscore the evolutionary leap: 0–100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds (when equipped with the Sport Chrono Package) and a top speed of 308 km/h. Power is routed through Porsche’s proven eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and distributed via the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system—offering rear-biased dynamics with front-axle support when needed, particularly in low-grip scenarios.

For buyers in changeable climates, the new Carrera 4S offers a compelling blend of confidence and capability, without sacrificing the purist driving feel Porsche enthusiasts expect.

Targa Turns 60: A Timeless Icon Evolves

The Targa variant holds a unique place in the Porsche pantheon. Introduced in 1965 as a response to U.S. safety regulations, the Targa bridged the gap between coupé rigidity and convertible freedom. Today, the latest 911 Targa 4S continues this legacy with its fully automatic roof system, transforming the car from a sleek coupé to an open-top cruiser in just 19 seconds. The iconic roll bar and wraparound rear window remain unmistakable design hallmarks, while modern refinements like a choice of roof colors (black, blue, red, or brown) add a bespoke flair.

For the first time, Porsche now offers two Targa variants—a fitting tribute in its anniversary year to one of the most enduring interpretations of the 911 formula.

More Than Just Power: Equipment and Comfort

Alongside performance, Porsche has significantly upgraded the standard equipment across the 911 Carrera 4S range. All models now ride on 20-inch front / 21-inch rear Carrera S wheels, and come fitted with Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) and a sports exhaust system with the signature 911 roar.

The braking system, borrowed from the GTS models, includes 408 mm front and 380 mm rear discs paired with striking red calipers, while rear-wheel steering comes standard on the Targa 4S for added agility.

Inside, a leather-trimmed cabin features wireless smartphone charging, matrix LED headlights, and a suite of convenience features such as electrically folding mirrors with puddle lights, rain-sensing dimming mirrors, and lane departure warning.

Coupé buyers will note that it comes as a two-seater by default, though rear seats can be added at no extra cost. Meanwhile, the Cabriolet and Targa models continue to offer 2+2 seating as standard.

A Broader Canvas for Personalisation

As always, Porsche extends an open invitation to individualization. Buyers can select from an extensive menu of color and material combinations, along with premium sound systems, driver assistance technologies, and roof options to tailor the 911 to their tastes and lifestyle.

With the launch of the new 911 Carrera 4S coupé, cabriolet, and Targa 4S, Porsche underscores its commitment to offering more choice, performance, and innovation within its most iconic model line. Blending heritage with high-tech, these all-wheel-drive variants are more than just weather-ready—they’re future-ready.

Source: Porsche

Gallery:

News

Oilstainlab HF-11 Is the $2.3M Supercar No One Saw Coming

In a world dominated by industry giants, the emergence of a supercar from a virtually unknown startup feels like the beginning of a fairytale—or perhaps a gamble. But American upstart Oilstainlab isn’t here to play it safe. The company’s first creation, the HF-11, is a bold, unapologetic statement of performance intent. With jaw-dropping specs and a design that channels both nostalgia and futuristic aggression, the HF-11 might just be the most ambitious automotive debut of 2025.

From the outside, the HF-11 already makes its presence known. Imagine the DNA of a Porsche 911 fused with the raw, track-ready presence of an Aston Martin Valkyrie. The result? A low-slung, mid-engine weapon built on a carbon fiber monocoque, weighing in at a feather-light 2,000 pounds (910 kg). It’s not just a design exercise—it’s a performance manifesto.

Under the skin, things get even more extreme. Oilstainlab is offering the HF-11 with not one, not two, but three powertrain options: a pair of internal combustion flat-sixes and a full-electric alternative. The “entry-level” 4.6-liter flat-six delivers 600 horsepower, a respectable figure when paired with the car’s lightweight construction. But it’s the 5.0-liter variant that steals the show—an absurdly potent 1,200 hp monster, expected to rev to an astonishing 12,000 rpm. Turbocharged and brutally efficient, it will be paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed sequential gearbox, all powering the rear wheels.

For those with an eye on the future—or just a taste for cutting-edge torque—Oilstainlab has also developed a fully electric version of the HF-11. Producing around 850 hp, the EV will offer an alternative take on performance while retaining the car’s extreme focus. Perhaps most intriguing, the company claims the powertrains are swappable: a modular subframe system allows owners to switch between ICE and EV setups. A mechanical novelty? Maybe. A groundbreaking concept in a market that rarely tolerates compromise? Definitely.

Oilstainlab isn’t shy about its ambitions. It places the HF-11 in the same conversation as the Porsche Carrera GT, Sauber C9, and Gordon Murray’s T.50—a bold move for a brand few had even heard of a year ago. Yet, if the HF-11 delivers on its promises, that comparison might not be as far-fetched as it seems.

Only 25 units of the HF-11 will be produced, with pricing starting at a cool $1.85 million. For the full experience—both ICE and EV configurations—buyers will need to part with $2.3 million. It’s an exclusive offer for a very niche clientele, but in the hypercar world, rarity and madness often walk hand in hand.

Can a newcomer like Oilstainlab truly compete with the titans of performance engineering? That remains to be seen. But if the HF-11 is any indication, this underdog has come to the fight with more than just bark—it’s bringing an arsenal.

Source: Oilstainlab

Gallery:

Oilstainlab HF-11 Is the $2.3M Supercar No One Saw Coming
News

Stellantis Reboots SRT: The Muscle Car Comeback Begins with Tim Kuniskis at the Helm

Stellantis is back on the warpath to reclaim its muscle car credibility—starting with the long-awaited revival of its legendary Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division.

In recent years, Stellantis has lost favor with hardcore car enthusiasts. The final nail in the coffin for many was the retirement of the iconic Hemi V8 and the subsequent push to label electric vehicles as the new wave of American muscle. The automaker’s attempt to rewrite muscle car DNA left fans cold—and skeptical.

But that tide may finally be turning.

This week, Stellantis confirmed the resurrection of SRT, a name that once symbolized pure, unfiltered performance. From the snarling Neon SRT-4 to the ferocious SRT Viper, the badge has graced some of the most visceral American machines of the past two decades. Though the department was officially dissolved in 2021, a single vestige remained: the Hellcat-powered Dodge Durango. That lonely survivor may soon have company.

The Right Man for the Job

Leading the SRT renaissance is none other than Tim Kuniskis, the man behind some of Dodge’s wildest recent creations—including the quarter-mile-crushing Challenger SRT Demon 170. Kuniskis, who stepped down from Dodge in mid-2024 only to reappear as Ram CEO later that year, will now oversee Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and SRT. It’s a massive portfolio, but for those who’ve followed his career, he’s exactly the kind of mad genius the brand needs.

“We’re getting the band back together,” Kuniskis declared. “SRT is another box we needed to check as we head into a product launch cadence enabling more performance than we’ve ever seen before. We’re working with our product development and technology organization to select the best engineers in powertrain and vehicle dynamics to build a team worthy of the SRT name.”

What’s Next for SRT?

Stellantis says the reinvigorated SRT division will oversee two key pillars: the Direct Connection performance parts program and North American motorsports operations for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. That includes an NHRA drag racing comeback and Ram’s entry into the NASCAR Truck Series starting in 2026.

It’s a clear sign the company is not just bringing back SRT as a marketing exercise—it’s reestablishing performance at the heart of its American brands.

While it’s too early to say what specific vehicles will wear the SRT badge next, expectations are sky-high. With electrification and hybridization reshaping the performance landscape, fans are eager to see how SRT blends modern tech with old-school muscle.

Your Move, Kuniskis

For now, the enthusiast community is cautiously optimistic. Stellantis made the right move by tapping Kuniskis to lead this reboot, but the next few years will determine whether SRT can truly return to glory—or become another nostalgic footnote.

So, gearheads—what’s your all-time favorite SRT vehicle? And what would you like to see come out of this new era under Kuniskis? Let us know in the comments below.

Source: Stellantis