Completely Updated! 2017 Porsche Cayman
Never before in the history of the Porsche Cayman was a change of generation so comprehensive as on the current generation. The exterior of the 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman features a comprehensively advanced design. Only the luggage compartment lid, roof and windshield have been left unchanged. The front fascia has a sharper profile, which gives the front of the car a wider and more muscular appearance. Redesigned rear fascia appears wider due to the high-gloss black accent strip with integrated Porsche logotype. New clear glass tail lights with four-point brake lights.
Available in Cayman and Cayman S models, the next generation 718 Cayman boasts superior performance thanks to a completely new generation of turbocharged, flat-four cylinder engines. They also feature a completely retuned chassis and the latest generation of PCM (Porsche Communication Management), which can be enhanced with services such as real-time traffic information, Google Street View and Apple Car Play.
Base power is generated by a turbocharged 2.0L flat-four cylinder engine bolted to a six-speed manual gearbox. The Cayman S is equipped with a 2.5L flat-four cylinder engine that is outfitted with a turbocharger with VTG (variable turbine geometry). Torque is communicated through the standard six-speed manual gearbox. The six-speed manual transmission has been reinforced with new components and a stronger clutch due to the increased torque of the new turbocharged engines. The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) automatic transmission is available as an option and has also been strengthened with new components.
Like in the latest generation of 911 models, the direction of shifting in manual mode has now been reversed to correspond to the logic used in race cars: pushing the gear selector forward initiates a downshift, pulling it back commands an upshift. Furthermore, the transmission holds the driver-selected gear and does not upshift at redline in manual mode. Additional pendulum-type absorbers have been integrated in the dual-mass flywheel to support engine smoothness and reduce vibrations at very low engine speeds.
The 718 Cayman also receives a completely retuned chassis for further enhanced agility and a higher level of comfort. Larger brakes and multi-collision braking system is standard. The optional PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) chassis features a 0.39 inch lower ride height. For the very first time, a PASM sport suspension with a 0.78 inch lower ride height is available as an option for the 718 Cayman S.
The optional Sport Chrono Package enhances the performance capabilities of the new 718 Boxster. Just like in the latest generation of 911, it now includes the Individual mode in addition to the three settings Normal, Sport and Sport Plus. The driver can individually configure the PASM, Sport Exhaust System, auto start/stop function, and rear spoiler by programming them using a specific menu in the instrument cluster and then save them as a preferred setting. In models with PDK, the Sport Response button is also added, which is located in the center of the mode switch. Inspired by motorsports, it enables the driver to configure the drivetrain to deliver maximum responsiveness and acceleration at the push of a button, for example before overtaking another vehicle.
In conjunction with the Sport Chrono Package, Porsche Stability Management (PSM) of the 718 Boxster models features a PSM Sport mode. In this setting, ambitious drivers can approach the limits of the car more closely in a safe environment, such as an enclosed track. The PSM always remains active in case it is needed. In combination with the upgraded Sport Chrono Package, this leads to a particularly engaging and thrilling driving experience.
Inside the passenger cabin, a new dashboard features redesigned vents. Optional Sport-Tex leather/fabric combination upholstery is available for the first time, offered in the combination of Black and Dark Silver or Graphite Blue and Chalk. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) and the eight speaker Sound Package Plus audio system are also standard. The capabilities of the PCM can be extended with options such as the Connect module. It includes special extensions for smartphones, such as the USB port, Apple® CarPlay™ and Porsche Car Connect.
Another available option is the navigation module with voice control, which makes it easy to enter driving destinations. The Connect Plus module offers real-time traffic information, Apple® CarPlay™, Google® Earth, Google® Street View, and WiFi connectivity. Drivers can also make use of additional comprehensive services via their smartphone, which include the Porsche Connect App and Porsche Car Connect.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 97.4; overall length: 172.4; width: 70.9; height: 51.0
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 2.0L turbocharged flat-four cylinder – 300 hp at 6500 rpm and 280 lbs-ft of torque at 1950-4500 rpm; 2.5L turbocharged flat-four cylinder – 350 hp at 6500 rpm and 309 lbs-ft of torque at 1950-4500 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed manual, seven-speed PDK automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 2.0L flat-four – 21 city/28 hwy. (manual), 22 city/29 hwy. (PDK); 2.5L flat-four- 20 city/26 hwy. (manual), 21 city/28 hwy. (PDK)
Cargo capacity: 5.3 cubic feet (front), 9.7 cubic feet (rear)
Safety features
Dual front airbags, dual front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual knee airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, Porsche Side Impact Protection System, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic slip program, standstill management with HOLD function, side-guard door beams, Enhanced Porsche Stability Management, Porsche Communication Management, Bluetooth hands free phone system, HomeLink programmable garage door opener, front/rear Park Assist with reversing camera, Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, anti-theft system, engine immobilizer, and tire pressure monitoring system.
Optional safety features include LED headlights including Porsche Dynamic Lighting System, Porsche Entry & Drive, adaptive cruise control, lane change assist, navigation system, and Porsche Connect/Connect Plus.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Corrosion: 12-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Porsche Cayman starts from $55,300 for the Cayman and $67,700 for the Cayman S. Destination charges add $1,050.
