Insatiable… the new Porsche
INSATIABLE, according to the Oxford dictionary, means to have an unappeasable appetite or desire for something and this is exactly what the new Porsche 718 GTS is all about.
When you sit in the driver’s cockpit with the engine on a constant “growl”, you know you are in for one helluva ride. There is a noticeable improved performance, sporty sound and distinctive design in the latest offerings from this sought-after brand.
The two new Porsche mid-engine sports cars, the 718 Boxster GTS and the 718 Cayman GTS, now offer even greater performance and efficiency. The centrepiece is formed by the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo flat engine with a redeveloped intake duct and optimised turbocharger.
Compared to the S model, this increases power by 11kW (15hp) to 269kW (365hp). With the Sport Chrono package as standard, the 718 Boxster GTS and 718 Cayman GTS sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. Top speed is 290 km/h. Visually, the GTS stands out from the other 718 models thanks to the new Sport Design front apron. As is typical for GTS models, the front light modules and the Bi-Xenon headlights are black-tinted. At the rear of the vehicle, the tail lights are tinted, black logos, black rear apron and centrally positioned black sports tailpipes of the standard sports exhaust system give the GTS its unique appearance.
Black GTS logos on the doors and 20-inch wheels painted in black complete the side view. The striking GTS boxer sound is delivered by a standard centrally positioned sports exhaust system.
Fuel consumptions: 718 Boxster GTS: combined fuel consumption 9.0-8.2l/100km, urban 12.3-10.9l/100km, extraurban 7.0-6.6l/100km; CO2 emissions 205-186g/km; 718 Cayman GTS: combined fuel consumption 9.0-8.2l/100km, urban 12.3-10.9l/100km, extra-urban 7.0-6.6l/100km; CO2 emissions 205-186g/km.
The GTS models feature sports seats with Alcantara seat centres. The steering wheel rim, shift lever and armrest are also covered with Alcantara, as is the roof lining in the 718 Cayman GTS.
The headrests feature embroidered GTS logos. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with touchscreen is operated as easily as a smartphone.
The standard Porsche Track Precision app allows automatic recording and detailed display and analysis of driving data on a smartphone.
A sporty new addition to the Porsche 718 family GTS times two. Power times two.
The two new GTS models are the sportiest and most emotional designs in the 718 lines. They are aimed particularly at drivers who love design and appreciate a vehicle that is ideally suited for everyday use but do not want to sacrifice sportiness. In addition to a number of performance-oriented features, the GTS models boast a high trim level, even in the basic package.
Sporty contrasts and exceptional details give them that added extra. The standard equipment in the 718 Boxster GTS and 718 Cayman GTS already includes extensive safety systems such as the multi-collision brake. The system can reduce the severity of a subsequent impact by slowing the vehicle automatically after the initial collision.
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) keeps the mid-engine sports cars under control even when driven at their limits.
The available assistance systems allow the new GTS models to be individually tailored to personal requirements. The optional cruise control function brakes moderately if the set speed could be exceeded on a downwards gradient. The optional adaptive cruise control system (ACC) includes a coasting function in combination with the PDK.
All said and done, the two new models are a sporty addition to the Porsche 718 family.
I put these two models through their paces at the Kyalami racetrack recently and the overall handling, cornering and the speed on the straights were just mind-blowing, reaching speeds of up to 270kmh.
The roar when you start up the motor and the feel of driving these vehicles from the cockpit is a really insatiable experience.
● MAHARAJ is an MC, radio news and sports editor/ presenter, accredited motoring journalist and member of the SAGMJ, international sports correspondent and voice-over artist.
E-mail: maharaj@telkomsa.net; Twitter: @nmaharaj321; Instagram: maharajnaresh