The 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman and the new 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster have been launched in India. The 718 Cayman is priced at INR 81.63 lakh while the 718 Boxster costs INR 85.53 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
With the new additions, the German sports car maker’s portfolio in India now includes the iconic 911, Macan, Cayenne, Boxster, Cayman and Panamera. Porsche dealerships across the country have started delivering the cars.
Powering the new Porsche 718 Cayman and the Porsche 718 Boxster is a 2.0-litre turbocharged horizontally opposed engine. The motor gets direct fuel injection (DFI), VarioCam Plus and integrated dry-sump lubrication. It produces 300 hp (220 kW) at 6500 rpm. A maximum torque of 380 Nm is available from as low as 1950 rpm and prevails until 4500 rpm.
A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard on both the cars. There is also an option for a 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) automatic gearbox. Acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph is possible in just 4.7 seconds. Top speed is claimed to be 275 km/hr.
In terms of driving dynamics, the 718 model line follows in the tracks of the original 718 which won numerous races in the 1950s and 1960s. The retuned chassis on the new model has improved lateral rigidity and wheel tracking. Shock absorbers have also been retuned while the springs and stabilisers have been engineered to be firmer.
The steering is now ten percent more direct and thus enhances agility and driving fun. Rear wheels have been made wider which along with the redeveloped tyres provide greater cornering stability.
Driving dynamics options such as the Sport Chrono Package and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) allow the driver to further customise the sporty character of the car. The new 718 models come with four-piston aluminium monobloc fixed callipers in a black finish. Brake disc diameters are 330 mm at the front and 299 mm at the rear.
The Porsche 718 Cayman and the Porsche 718 Boxster get driver and front passenger airbags which inflate in two stages depending on the severity and type of accident. Also available is the Porsche Side Impact Protection System (POSIP) which comprises side impact protection elements in the doors and two airbags on each side.
The 718 twins get a wider and more masculine appearance. The new front bumpers come with larger cooling air intakes. The new bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, give the car a rounded look. LED headlights with four-point daytime running lights are available as an option.
The new side profile emphasises the mid-engine layout and gets striking wings and side sills. There are no handle recess covers on the doors. Distinctively styled 18-inch wheels come equipped with the new 718 Boxster and Cayman models.
The redesigned rear now comes with a black accent strip with integrated Porsche badge between the tail lights. Three-dimensional LED technology and four-point brake lights, give the new tail lamps a distinctive look.
On the inside, the 718 Boxster and Cayman get a new 918 spyder style steering wheel. The upper part of the dash panel including air vents is also revised. Another essential addition to the new interior layout is the 7-inch multi-touchscreen with Porsche Communication Management (PCM) which is now a standard feature. Mobile phone preparation, audio interfaces and Sound Package Plus are all part of this package.