Not too long after the unveiling of the 718 Boxster, the 718 Cayman finally makes an appearance, and both 718 Cayman and Cayman S models will be unveiled at the ongoing Beijing Motor Show.
The 718 moniker comes with a price, though, as it loses the naturally aspirated flat six, only to be replaced by the all-new turbocharged flat-fours. The engine options are similar with the 718 Boxster, but if a refresher is needed, the base Cayman gets powered by a 2.0-litre lump producing 300 hp and 380 Nm of torque while the Cayman S receives a 2.5-litre version, producing 350 hp an 420 Nm of torque.
The engine is paired to either a standard six-speed manual or seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox. The slicker 718 Cayman accelerates faster than its convertible counterpart; the base model is good for a 0-100km/h dash in 4.7 seconds, while the S is 0.5 seconds faster. Top speed for both are 272km/h and 283km/h respectively.
More power means bigger brakes are needed, hence they are both equipped with 30mm-diameter discs up front and 299mm discs at the back. Suspension enhancements in the form of revised dampers and spring settings, thicker rear antiroll bar, wider rear tyres and retuned steering should dampen the downsizing news, so there’s some silver lining too.
Changes on the aesthetic are just like a typical Porsche – subtle and minimal at most. Inside the 718 Cayman is a redesigned dashboard that includes Porsche Communication Management system and a new steering wheel.
The 718 Cayman can be had at £39,878 (approx RM225,000 based on today’s conversion) while the S costs £48,834 (approx RM275,000). For the first time ever, the coupe models are priced cheaper than the Boxster models. Customers with deeper wallets can opt for the optional Porsche Active Suspension Management and Sport Chrono Package.
Last year, Porsche Malaysia introduced the Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS models, with the hardcore GT4 Cayman making its debut later in the year. Expect the 718 Boxster and Cayman to arrive on our shores pretty soon.
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