2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4/4S

With its arrival last year, the 7th gen Porsche 911 brought with its increased performance and re-sculpted styling, tons of new technological enhancements. And despite an abundance of electronic nannies, we found the result was pure driving bliss. But for those looking to enjoy four-season driving, there’s now the all-wheel drive 2013 911 Carrera 4 and 4S.

With an even large suite of computerized goings-on, Porsche Traction Management brings a new rear-drive biased active AWD to the 911 C4. Constantly monitoring steering angles, wheel slip, and acceleration, the system now sends up to 100% of torque to the front wheels, up from 40 before, but only when needed.

All-wheel drive brings a slightly wider rear track, rear wheels, and body work, though hardly discernible to the average onlooker. More noticeable is the new red taillight reflector strip, recessed sill accents, and the model specific front fascia and air intakes.

Engines for the 4 and 4S are the same 3.4 and 3.8 liter flat-6’s, producing 350 and 400 horsepower, respectively. The PDK dual clutch paddle shift automatic is again available, but we chose the 4S and 7 speed manual for maximum driver interaction. Straight line power felt just as solid as the rear drive Carrera S, as did steering feedback. With more torque available to the front wheels, cornering agility sees a nice increase and inspires more confidence.

Other 911 debuts with the Carrera 4 and 4S include radar based adaptive cruise control and front collision warning systems.

Starting prices match the car’s abilities, around $92,000 for the 4, and $106,000 for the 4S. And stay tuned, in a few weeks we’ll give the Carrera 4S a proper MotorWeek “hello” with a full test at Roebling Road Raceway.