3rd-gen Porsche 718 Cayman shows less can be more
The front and rear fascias have been redone and there's a new design for the standard Bi-Xenon headlights and integrated LED daytime running lights.
The prominent intakes in the rear fenders just behind the doors feed cooler, denser air to the engine and help transfer heat from the turbocharging system's air-to-water intercooler.
The Sport Chrono Package includes analog and digital stopwatches, a steering wheel-mounted switch that now has four settings: normal, sport, sport plus and a new individual mode that lets drivers customize settings for the rear spoiler, sport exhaust system (if equipped), auto start/stop and suspension.
The Cayman is a Porsche so it comes with premium touches like leather (seats, steering wheel, shifter, door handles, armrests and center console storage cover), a six-speaker 110-watt audio system with satellite/HD receivers, 11 GB internal jukebox storage and CD/DVD drive, front and rear ParkAssist with reversing camera and HomeLink.
[...] in typical Porsche fashion there are dozens of options for the 718, ranging from two upgraded exhaust systems, seven 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels and tires, exterior appearance items, several seats, upholstery, mahogany, aluminum or carbon fiber trim, ceramic brakes ($7,410), two high-end audio systems, safety technology and even seat belt colors.
The high-tech PDK dual-clutch gearbox may be quicker than stink but frankly the Cayman's slick shifter reinforced our preference for sticks in a sports car like the 718.
If you'd like some rational ammo to sell the idea of picking up a new 718 to your significant other (or yourself), keep in mind that Porsche was the No. 2 brand in Consumer Reports' 2017 brand report card, which looks at predicted reliability, road test score, owner satisfaction and safety.
Kelley Blue Book said the 718 Cayman has the best resale value in sports cars and U.S. News & World Report named Porsche 2017's best luxury brand.
If you do pull the trigger, don't overlook one of the best advantages of owning a Porsche: the Porsche Club of America (https://www.pca.org ) The PCA is a fantastic way to learn what you and your sports car can do on the track and off, while meeting friendly, helpful souls and their families.
Sport exhaust, $2,900; Porsche active suspension management, $1,790; navigation, $1,730; 19-inch Cayman S wheels, $1,580; Porsche torque vectoring, $1,320; Porsche connect plus, $1,720; sport seats plus, $810; GT sport steering wheel, $330; heated seats, $530; extended range fuel tank, $140