Porsche restores parity
NEW DUO: 4.0-LITRE UNIT THAT ONCE POWERED THE 911 BACK INTO ACTION
Both the Boxster GTS and the Cayman GTS will go from 0-100km/h in just 4.5 sec.
Having faced widescale criticism for introducing forced induction to the 718 Boxster and Cayman ranges four years ago, Porsche has now jettison the turbocharged flatfour engines for a normally aspirated flat-six in the flagship GTS.
The same 4.0-litre unit that once powered the 911, and which will also be used for the incoming GT4 – albeit in a higher state of tune – the free-breathing engine produces 294kW/418Nm and is matched to a six-speed manual gearbox, with a seven-speed PDK likely to follow next year.
Equipped as standard are the Porsche active suspension management, sport chrono package and Porsche torque vectoring systems with a mechanical limited-slip differential and sports exhaust. Both the Boxster and Cayman will get from 0-100km/h in 4.5 sec and top out at 293km/h.
Aesthetically, GTS sits 20mm closer to the ground than the regular Boxster and Cayman S, while adding bespoke trim, such as satin gloss black 20-inch alloy wheels, a dark finish on the lip spoiler, air intake around the head and tail lights and on the front apron, as part of the Sport Design pack, a redesigned rear bumper and cross-drilled brake discs with red calipers.
Optional are the upgraded Porsche ceramic composite brakes.
Standard spec, meanwhile, consists of the new seven-inch touchscreen Porsche communication management with track precision smartphone app and a Bose or Burmester sound system, while unique GTS touches include Alcantara on the upgraded sport seats, steering wheel, doors, gear lever, armrest and roof – in the case of the Cayman. Carbon centre console inserts and the optional GTS interior package offers a choice of two colours for the seat belts, GTS logos on the front headrest and Porsche lettering on the floor mats in crayon or Carmine red.
The Boxster and Cayman GTS 4.0 models are due locally by mid year. Pricing is to be confirmed.