A light smell of petrol, a loud raspy exhaust, the engine firing right behind you while you hug the sports seats around a Formula 1 track is truly every petrolhead’s dream. And I got to fulfill mine at the 2025 Porsche World Roadshow.
Porsche is a carmaker well-known to make some of the most iconic stuff of all time. And what could be more characteristically Porsche than the 911 range? We had the opportunity to try out every flavour of the 911 right from the standard, purist Carerra, to the GTS Hybrid— a true marvel of technology topping it up with the enthusiast favourite GT3RS. That’s not all though. The tasty GT4RS, arguably a more nimble and agile track weapon also made an appearance as did the full range of modern electrics, including the Taycan and Macan EVs.
However, before I talk about the track, Porsche had a surprise waiting for us. Our first task for the day— taking the Cayenne range of SUVs off-road! With a curated off-road track with obstacles such as chicken holes, steep climbs, banking angles and more, the Cayenne frankly felt extremely capable. Now who would think a Porsche would perform so well off the beaten path?
Next up was the track day, a marvellous two laps in the EVs, 911s and the GT4RS each felt surreal. Now, each car was incredibly fun although I still felt more of a connect with the purist favourite Carrera. There’s just something about an unadulterated experience that truly stands out. A simply flat-six, comfortable suspension yet with the raunchy looks, the oh-so-tight handling and the ability to go really fast. The GT3RS was a whole different spectrum however. A track weapon like none-else, one simply wonders how it could be bettered in the next avatar? It’s a bit too perfect— even for a Porsche! Something to ponder about.
A quick briefing later, it was time to experience the glory of electrification with the Taycan Turbo GT. Holding the title of the fastest production electric on the Yas Marina Circuit, Dubai, the 2.2 second 0-100kmph time sounds unrealistic. But when the car squats down preparing to launch itself, you realise it means business. Oh and business it meant. With an absolute razor sharp response, its speed feels like it might just beat the latest Apollo spacecraft. There must be some sorcery involved in developing the technology behind it!
The last task for the day was a quick slalom course in the 718 Spyder RS. While just recovering from the bone-tingling Turbo GT run, it provides a completely different perspective. That of absolute precision and how Porsche makes such good-handling cars. It’s not a small car, but it feels like driving a motorcycle— so quick on its feet. A bit sad though that the course got over much before I wanted to let go of the car!
Concluding the day with an extensive shoot of the entire lineup, it felt a bit of an iconic day. Just like the Porsche brand is etched in every enthusiasts mind worldwide, here I was getting to experience the DNA one car at a time.