718 GETS THE GTS TREATMENT
More power for Porsche's mid-engine model
Porsche's precision product planners have been at it again. Their latest effort is the new 718 GTS in Boxster roadster and Cayman coupé form. Both models pack precisely 15hp more than the existing 718 S Boxster and Cayman.
That makes for a grand total of 365 metric horsepower and precisely 5hp fewer than the base 370hp 911 Carrera model. In other words, the 911's status as Porsche's premium sports car model remains. As for performance, the extra power shaves 0.1 seconds off the zero to 62mph sprint, but only provided you option PDK. Porsche is not claiming an improvement over the 718 S PDK model's 4.6 seconds to 62mph for the GTS. However, the GTS'S top speed improves from 177mph to 180mph for both manual cars and variants with Porsche's seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Of course, the GTS badge means more than just a modest power uptick. It also comes with a carload of goodies that are normally found on the option list. For the 718 GTS, that includes the response-sharpening Sport Chrono package, electronic torque vectoring plus a mechanical limited-slip differential and the PASM adaptive suspension system. The latter lowers the GTS by 10mm over the standard 718 chassis while Sport PASM, lowering the suspension a further 10mm, is available as an option for a modest £168 outlay. The GTS also comes with a sports exhaust system as standard.
The final part of the GTS package involves style. That starts with Sport Design bumpers front and rear and extends to blacked-out light cluster internals, again front and rear. Black tailpipes, black logos and 20-inch satin-finish wheels complete the GTS look. Inside, you'll find the GTS'S signature Alcantara seat centres on the standard Sports Plus chairs, plus further lashings of Alcantara on the steering wheel, centre console and arm rests.
The 718 GTS is available now from your local Porsche Centre. Prices for the 718 Cayman kick off at £59,866, while the Boxster model starts at £61,727. Both prices include a complimentary stint complete with one-onone instruction at Porsche's Experience Centre at Silverstone.