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The Porsche 911 is renowned for its iconic design, driving dynamics, and rich history. However, because it’s pricey, you should be sure you’ll enjoy the car before purchasing it. Some 2023 Porsche 911 owners dislike the following three factors. Are they dealbreakers that’ll have you considering 911 alternatives?

2023 Porsche 911 owners say the cabin lacks adequate insulation

2023 Porsche 911 Cabriolet Gray
2023 Porsche 911 Cabriolet | Porsche A.G.

Responding to a recent J.D. Power satisfaction survey, 2023 Porsche 911 owners say cabin noise is one of their main gripes about this car. Wind and tire noises can reduce driver enjoyment, especially in a vehicle designed to be driven (safely) at high speeds. However, buyers can equip the Turbo models with noise-canceling glass that might solve the problem.

This lightweight glass also shaves about nine pounds off the 911’s curb weight, which can only improve its aerodynamics. A 911 Turbo costs between $197,200 and $210,000 to start, depending on the body style. Both the Coupe and Cabriolet pack a 572-hp twin-turbo flat-six engine, tuned to produce 640 hp in the Turbo S models. 

The 2023 Porsche 911 Turbo S is a performance beast, promising a top speed of 205 mph with summer tires. This model with the Sport Chrono package boasts a 0-to-60-mph time of 2.6 seconds. The bundle also adds a Sport Plus drive mode with chassis control and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). Buyers even get a nifty stopwatch on the top of the dashboard that clocks racing laps. 

Owners also say the car needs better voice assistance tech

Porsche recently introduced its own digital voice assistant, a tech feature that has become commonplace in luxury cars. The system picks up on specific commands and suggestions, such as asking it to navigate toward a drive-thru or adjust the audio volume. User experience for this feature rated below average in J.D. Power owner satisfaction surveys. Edmunds reviewers also complained about it, noting you’re better off using the voice control included with Apple CarPlay.

Additionally, Edmunds expressed disappointment with the sound system’s audio quality. The 2023 Porsche 911 comes standard with a premium Bose system with the option to upgrade to Burmester speakers. The infotainment screen looks nice, but using it is another matter entirely. It has more touch controls than physical buttons and knobs, which can result in driver frustration. In addition, U.S. News testers say the control labels are too small and difficult to read. 

Porsche 911 owners say the ride could be smoother

Every model has an adaptive suspension, but some 2023 Porsche 911 owners still aren’t comfortable enough while driving the car. U.S. News reviewers also indicate the ride quality is rigid but not unpleasant. The four-seat Targa models reportedly have the most forgiving suspensions. 

This is another instance where choosing the Sport Chrono package might be a good idea. It adds unique engine mounts to maximize comfort and reduce vibrations. With Sport Chrono engaged, the gear shifting is also less intrusive. 

It’s also possible the surveyed 911 owners might have the Porsche Active Suspension Management System. It automatically switches to a stiffer drive mode based on handling performance, which could be an unwelcome surprise for some drivers. A sportier suspension is also standard on the GTS model.

Despite those complaints, the 2023 911 earned the highest overall ranking in the J.D. Power U.S. APEAL Study. Porsche also tied with Land Rover as the second-best automotive brand, while Jaguar took first place.