Porsche just dropped a wave of exciting updates about its 2025 lineup, and the headline news is clear: the legendary 911 Turbo S is going hybrid. But that’s only part of the story. Porsche is also preparing to wrap up combustion engine production for the 718 series, push forward with a powerful new electric Cayenne, and invest in a next generation of high performance EVs. Here’s everything Porsche fans in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf need to know about what’s coming.
After years of speculation, Porsche officially confirmed that the 911 Turbo S will debut with a hybrid powertrain before the end of 2025. CEO Oliver Blume revealed the update during the brand’s midyear earnings call, emphasizing a performance-focused strategy. This move follows Porsche’s acquisition of battery maker V4Drive, now rebranded V4Smart, which supplies the 1.9 kilowatt hour cylindrical cells used in the new T-Hybrid system.
The current 911 Turbo S already delivers 640 horsepower from its twin turbo 3.8 liter flat-six engine, but the hybrid upgrade is expected to push power even further. Still, there’s concern about added weight, similar to what happened with the hybrid GTS, which gained 47 kilograms. Porsche is now investing in weight-saving strategies and hinting at even more aggressive derivatives, including a possible GT2 RS hybrid.
The beloved Porsche 718 Cayman and Boxster will officially end production in October 2025. After that, no new gas-powered versions will be built. Porsche has confirmed that fully electric successors are in the works, but fans should not expect any more combustion models after the current 982 generation.
This marks a major shift in strategy, as the 718 lineup has always been about engine character. From six-cylinder screamers to turbocharged fours, sound and engagement defined the 718 experience. With the electric replacements, Porsche also says goodbye to the manual gearbox. While purists may not be thrilled, the EV strategy reflects Porsche’s broader push toward full electrification across its portfolio.
Before the electric 718s arrive, Porsche plans to launch the new electric Cayenne later this year, with deliveries starting in 2026. The SUV will play a central role in Porsche’s EV roadmap, offering both performance and practicality for drivers in the Gulf region who crave luxury without compromise.
Built on the VW Group’s scalable PPE platform, the electric Cayenne is expected to offer over 500 kilometers of range and advanced driver assistance features. Porsche aims to keep its signature sporty handling, even in a larger SUV format. The Cayenne EV will hit showrooms before the electric sports cars, reversing Porsche’s original launch order and signaling just how important the SUV segment is to their future.
While not yet official, rumors suggest that the next GT2 RS could also adopt hybrid power. Porsche typically reserves this variant for the final years of a 911 generation, focusing on track use with aggressive aero, lightweight design, and insane power. If the new GT2 RS follows the hybrid lead of the Turbo S, it could be one of the fastest production Porsches ever made.
This aligns with Blume’s comments about new 911 derivatives being developed to be even quicker than the 992.1 generation. Expect cutting edge battery integration, torque fill acceleration, and limited production numbers. Gulf-based track enthusiasts should start preparing now.
Porsche is not slowing down. After launching the electric Cayenne and confirming electric 718s, the company plans to introduce a second generation Macan with a gas engine in 2028. However, there are no signs of a gas-powered 718 successor. Porsche is going all electric in that segment, banking on high performance battery systems to deliver what drivers want.
Expect new digital cockpit experiences, fast charging capability, and perhaps new takes on driver involvement that don’t depend on a clutch pedal. Porsche's mission is clear: reimagine their most iconic cars for the EV era without losing the thrill of driving.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.