The fourth, redeveloped generation of the mid-engine sports coupe has a more striking, athletic and efficient appearance. Just a few weeks after the debut of the new 718 Boxster, the new 718 Cayman is extending the new model series.
For the first time, the hard-top is priced below the roadster – in a similar way to the 911 models. 718 Cayman pricing starts at $110,300 in Australia with the 718 Cayman S from $140,600.
The same new four-cylinder flat engines with turbocharging as in the 718 Boxster are being deployed in the 718 Cayman. As a result, coupe and roadster have an identical engine output for the first time.
The entry-level version starts with 221 kW (300 hp) from two litres of displacement. The S model delivers 257 kW (350 hp) with a displacement of 2.5 litres. This represents 18 kW (25 hp) more power compared to the predecessor models with an NEDC combined fuel consumption of 6.9L /100 kms for the 718 Cayman and 7.3L / 100 kms for the 718 Cayman S when fitted with optional PDK transmission.
The tremendous torque of the new engines in the 718 Cayman promises driving enjoyment and agility even at low revs. The two-litre engine of the 718 Cayman produces maximum torque of 380 Nm (plus 90 Nm over its predecessor), available between 1,950 rpm and 4,500 rpm. The 2.5-litre engine of the 718 Cayman S features a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG), a technology hitherto used exclusively in the 911 Turbo. In the 718 Cayman S, the VTG charger additionally has a wastegate for the first time. It delivers maximum torque of 420 Nm (an extra 50 Nm) to the crankshaft at engine speeds between 1,900 and 4,500 rpm.
For the driver this means even better torque across all engine speeds. The 718 Cayman with optional PDK and Sport Chrono Package sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The 718 Cayman S completes the same sprint in 4.2 seconds. Top speed of the 718 Cayman is 275 km/h with the 718 Cayman S peaking at 285 km/h.
New chassis tuning for greater precision and more lateral stability
In terms of driving dynamics, the new 718 Cayman models follow in the tracks of the classic 718 sports cars of the past. Thanks to their outstanding agility, the historic mid-engine sports cars won numerous races in the 1950s and 1960s such as the Targa Florio and Le Mans.
Lateral rigidity and wheel tracking have been improved in the completely retuned chassis of the 718 Cayman; springs and stabiliser bars have been designed for added firmness and the tuning of the shock absorbers has been revised. The steering, which is now 10 per cent more direct, enhances agility and driving dynamics. The rear wheels, which are a half inch wider, in combination with the redeveloped tyres result in increased lateral force and hence greater cornering stability.
Dynamics options such as the Sport Chrono Package and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) allow the sporty character of the 718 Cayman to be further enhanced. Another available option is PASM with a 10-millimetre lowering of the ride height and additionally in the S model PASM sport suspension with a 20-millimetre lowering of the ride height for the first time. As in other Porsche sports cars, the Sport Chrono Package can be adjusted via the programme switch on the steering wheel. Supplementing the previous settings of “Normal”, “Sport” and “Sport Plus” is the “Individual” programme, which is able to call up previously programmed individual settings for various systems.
Due to the car’s greater driving performance capabilities, stronger brake systems are now in use with 330-millimetre brake discs up front and 299-millimetre discs at the rear. The 718 Cayman now has the brake system that was previously used in the Cayman S. The 718 Cayman S, on the other hand, uses the four-piston callipers of the 911 Carrera combined with six-millimetre thicker brake discs.
Distinctive design for a more muscular appearance
The new 718 Cayman has been further developed as comprehensively in its design as in its technology. The taut proportions, prominent air intakes at the front and sides and low side profile underscore the boost in dynamics.
The nose has a much sharper profile, which gives the front end a wider and more masculine appearance. The ultra-slim front lights above the air intakes, which contain the parking lights and indicators, further reinforce this impression. Rounding off the front end of the 718 Cayman are the significantly larger cooling air intakes and bi-xenon headlights in their new design with integrated LED daytime running lights. LED headlights with four-point daytime running lights are available as a new option.
Viewed from the side, the new sport coupe reveals its striking guards and side sills. The redesigned rear has a much wider look due to the accent strip in high-gloss black with integrated Porsche badge between the tail lights. The tail lights have been completely redesigned and are distinguished by the three-dimensional technology and four brake spots that appear to float freely.
Redesigned interior and PCM as standard
Inside, revisions are visible for both the 718 Cayman and the 718 Boxster. The upper part of the dash panel including air vents is new. The new sport steering wheel in the 918 Spyder design has been added as well as a revised Porsche Communication Management (PCM). For Australian models this includes as standard: mobile phone preparation, audio interfaces, navigation and voice control as well as the 150-watt Sound Package Plus for the 718 Cayman.
The PCM can be extended with optional modules to thoroughly adapt it to personal requirements. For instance, the Connect Plus module is available as an extension of the navigation module and allows various iPhone functions and apps to be used in the PCM via Apple® CarPlay.
Bi-Xenon headlights including Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), auto dimming mirrors and digital radio are also additional standard on all Australian models.
Porsche’s seven-speed PDK transmission is a $4,990 option. However, if chosen on the base model 718 Cayman customers benefit from a change to the Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold for ‘fuel-efficient vehicles’ below 7.0L / 100kms. As a result, the option price of PDK on the base model 718 Cayman is effectively $1,333.
Australian Porsche dealers are now taking orders for the new 718 Cayman and Cayman S, with deliveries to commence late in 2016.
718 Cayman: combined fuel consumption 7.4 – 6.9 l/100 km, urban 9.9 – 9.0 l/100 km, extra-urban 6.0 – 5.7 l/100 km;
CO2 emissions 168 – 158 g/km; efficiency class (Germany): E-D.
718 Cayman S: combined fuel consumption 8.1 – 7.3 l/100 km, urban 10.7 – 9.5 l/100 km, extra-urban 6.5 – 6.0 l/100 km;
CO2 emissions 184 – 167 g/km; efficiency class (Germany): F-E.
