The 2003 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S all-wheel-drive coupe was powered by a 3.6-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine that produced 315 horsepower. A six-speed manual overdrive tranmission was standard, while a five-speed automatic Triptronic transmission, which allowed manual shifting via an on-shifter gate or steering-wheel-mounted controls, was available as an option.
The Carrera 4S came with a body that was slightly wider (by more than two inches) than the standard Carrera, as well as wider tires (18-inch) that provided improved grip and larger ventilated brakes. Porsche's all-wheel-drive system was also part of the package.
Porsche added an in-dash CD player to the Carrera's standard AM/FM audio system for 2003. Other standard features included included air conditioning, leather seats, dual front and side airbags, a power-adjustable driver's seat, power heated mirrors, fog lights, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as powered  windows, steering, brakes, and door locks.
The Carrera 4S was also equipped with four-wheel anti-lock brakes, a keyless entry system, and a rear spoiler.
The 2003 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S all-wheel-drive coupe was one of a long line of near iconic Porsche sports cars that promised a lot to drivers, and delivered on those promises in almost every way. Drivers noted that the car's power, handling, precise steering, braking, suspension, and interior all met or exceeded expectations. Drivers also noted that visibility out the rear was exceptional, as was reliability, though some drivers noted that the back seat in the 2+2 models was cramped.