Skip to main content

Porsche’s 2017 718 Cayman gets the same makeover as its Boxster sibling

The Porsche Boxster recently got a major overhaul that included everything from a new lineup for four-cylinder engines to an augmented name, and now its Cayman coupe sibling is getting the same treatment.

Like the Boxster, the 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman borrows the “718” designation from a classic racing model of the same name, and gets a thorough reworking inside and out. It may not look very different on the outside, but the 718 Cayman is almost entirely new under the skin.

The refresh includes the same turbocharged flat-four cylinder engines as the 718 Boxster, replacing the previous six-cylinder engines. Output is the same as in the Boxster, meaning the 2.0-liter engine in the base 718 Cayman produces 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.5-liter Cayman S engine is rated at 350 hp and 309 lb-ft. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission, or six-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic.

As with most Porsches, achieving the highest performance requires ordering both the PDK transmission and the optional Sport Chrono package. In this configuration, the 718 Cayman base model will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 170 mph. The 718 Cayman S will do 0 to 60 mph 4.0 seconds, and top out at 177 mph.

There’s plenty of tech to help the 718 Cayman go around corners as well. Available Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) provides on-the-go adjustability and lowers the ride height by 10 millimeters. There’s also a “Sport” version available on the 718 Cayman S that lowers ride height by 20mm and provides more aggressive settings. The Sport Chrono package includes “Normal,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” driving modes, and an “Individual” mode that lets the driver customize settings.

It may not look very different, but Porsche says the Cayman’s exterior has been thoroughly updated. The biggest apparent changes are the new four-point LED daytime running lights that are becoming a Porsche styling hallmark, and redesigned taillights connected by a black trim piece. The front fascia also features larger air intakes and other tweaks.

The interior gets some styling changes as well, and a the standard Porsche Communication Management infotainment system. Apple CarPlay is available, but only as part of the optional Connect module. Other options include voice-controlled navigation, Google Earth and Street View, and onboard Wi-Fi.

The 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman goes on sale in the U.S. in November. Pricing starts at $54,950 for the base 718 Cayman, and $67,350 for the 718 Cayman S (both prices include destination).

Editors' Recommendations

Stephen Edelstein
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
These new NASA EVs will drive astronauts part way to the moon (sort of)
NASA's new crew transportation electric vehicles.

Three specially designed, fully electric, environmentally friendly crew transportation vehicles for Artemis missions arrived at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida this week. The zero-emission vehicles, which will carry astronauts to Launch Complex 39B for Artemis missions, were delivered by Canoo Technologies of Torrance, California. NASA/Isaac Watson

NASA has shown off a trio of new all-electric vehicles that will shuttle the next generation of lunar astronauts to the launchpad at the Kennedy Space Center.

Read more
5 upcoming EVs I’m excited for, from luxury SUVs to budget champions
Lotus Eletre

Almost every major automaker has released an EV by now -- or plans to soon -- and makers like Ford and Kia already have a variety to choose from. But if you haven't found one that's right for you yet, hang tight. There are dozens of announced electric car models that have yet to come out, and it's clear that the future of EVs is bright.

From longer range to lower prices, the next batch of EVs gives us plenty to get excited about. Here are five upcoming EVs that we can't wait to drive.
Volvo EX30

Read more
Tesla shows off first Cybertruck after two years of delays
The first Cybertruck built at Tesla's Giga Texas facility.

The first Cybertruck built at Tesla's Giga Texas facility. Tesla

Tesla has shown off the first Cybertruck to roll off the production line at its new Gigafactory plant in Austin, Texas.

Read more