The 2017 Porsche Cayman Upgrades
Porsche's mid-engined sports car received the new "718" badging during its mid-cycle refresh, but what has Porsche really changed on the 2017 Cayman?
1. Engine - The Switch to 4
The most notable and perhaps controversial change to the new Porsche Cayman is the switch to all-new turbocharged four-cylinder engines, hence the moniker "718" model designation as found on Porsche's four-cylinder Le Mans/Formula race car of the late 50's and early 60's. Gone are the harmonious naturally aspirated flat-six engine offerings that Porsche has become known for and in their place is either a 300 horsepower 2.0L turbo-four for the base 718 Cayman or a boosted 350 horsepower 2.5L four-cylinder in the "S" model. Both engines feature VTG (Variable Turbine Geometry) turbo technology as found on the 991 Turbo to give the benefit of a quick spool of a small turbo, but also keep the higher performance output of a larger turbocharger. While the performance numbers are impressive and a significant improvement over the outgoing models, most agree that the sound, responsiveness, and buttery-smooth operation of the old boxer six will be greatly missed. That said, the fun factor of the new car is still one of the best that money can buy, and with a turbocharged platform, is likely to be embraced by aftermarket tuners in the near future.
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2. Fascia and Intake Alterations
Immediately noticeable exterior changes have been made to the front fascia of the 718. Previous base and S model Caymans featured a round fog light/daytime running light incorporated into the left and right radiator grilles, whereas the new 718 Cayman uses LED light strips placed directly into the fascia above the grilles in a similar fashion to those found on the 991 911 and 981 Cayman GTS/GT4. As a result, the overall size of the radiator intake grilles have been significantly reduced compared to the previous generation Cayman and are much less angular and pronounced. Although the new changes blend seamlessly into the front of the car and the LEDs are consistent with the rest of Porsche's model lineup, they also take away from the aggressive look that many loved about the 981 Cayman. In lieu of the new turbocharged engines, the intake vents ahead of the rear wheel arches have been made larger and deeper. The driver side duct directs air to the engine intake whereas the passenger side is used for cooling of the engine compartment and intercooler.
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3. Bumper Styling Touches
Along with the front and side styling changes, designers have made their share of changes to the rear of the car as well. The most noticeable change is the translucent "Porsche" lettering between the bumper and speed-activated rear wing, making the wing look much more pronounced. Reflectors have now been incorporated into the bumper as they are no longer integrated into the tail light units. Along the bottom edge of the bumper is a redesigned black trim piece that, instead of leaving the exhaust partially exposed like on 987 and 981 models, encloses the rear of the car's exhaust much like the 981 GTS.
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4. Headlights & Taillights - The Brighter The Better
All 718 models come standard with new Bi-Xenon headlights and integrated LED daytime running lights. The headlight shell has become more elongated with a slight teardrop shape more akin to the original 987 Cayman headlights. As an option, Porsche offers their dynamic light system (PDSL Plus) that uses LED lighting able to automatically adapt to oncoming traffic as well as swivel in the direction the car is turning. The taillights now feature two LED strips to give a slimmer profile when lit, much like the 991 lights. The shell of the lights has become smooth without a protruding lip blending the taillights in with the wing. The brake lights feature four individual LED clusters similar to those found in the LED headlight units. Because of the extensive use of LEDs, Porsche has opted to forgo the red-colored lenses in favor of clear taillight units.
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5. Interior Refinements
The 718 Cayman interior offers many of the same ergonomics as the 981 model but has had some subtle restyling changes. The air vents on the dash are probably the most noticeable improvement as they have shifted from a rectangular shape to nice ovals with flat bottoms. The high-rise center console remains the same, but minor changes to the PCM (Porsche Communication Management) unit buttons make for a less cluttered feel. Porsche has long struggled to keep up with competitors in the infotainment department as they typically focus more on the driving dynamics of their vehicles, but many agree that improved 4.0 unit is finally a step in the right direction and features many usable apps and smartphone integration. Cars equipped with the Sport Chrono package will notice the stopwatch is now placed on top of the dash instead of neatly tucked away between the air vents. The 718 comes with a new 918-inspired sport steering wheel that has an integrated Sport Chrono knob to allow drivers to easily and conveniently switch between dynamic driving modes. Although these are the only major changes to the interior, one can have a field day customizing their car with the seemingly endless options that Porsche offers.
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6. Chassis Development
The 718 Cayman has a revised electro-mechanical power steering setup that is supposed to have a 10 percent quicker ratio to improve on-center feel that many griped about when they moved away from the hydraulically-assisted steering. The 13" front and 11.8" rear brakes from the previous 981 "S" are now fitted as standard to the base model 718 Cayman whereas the 718 Cayman "S" receives red monoblock calipers and thicker front rotors from the 991 Carrera. Although handling has been sublime in previous generations, Porsche keeps plugging away to improve the Cayman and has revised the rear subframe, spring rates, and roll bars to further refine the razor sharp handling. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) are still optional extras to enhance driving dynamics and road compliance.
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