Porsche Cayman 2017 Review

What’s it all about?
Four-cylinder power replaces the iconic flat six in Porsche's two-seat coupe. Like the six, the new four – a 2.5-litre in the Cayman S tested – is horizontally opposed. The new powerplant is complemented by significant changes to suspension, steering and brakes.

There are other changes inside, including a new infotainment touchscreen – the gateway to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay – and restyled interior fixtures. All new features come in a face-lifted package incorporating bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights.

How much will it cost?
In standard form, the Cayman S sells for $140,300, but optioned-up, the test vehicle topped out at $173,340. Most of that is subject to 33 per cent luxury car tax above the tax-free threshold of $64,132.

If you plan to use the Cayman S as Ferdinand intended, it's worth paying nearly $5000 extra for the PDK dual-clutch transmission, another $5000 for the Sport Chrono pack, $4330 for sports exhaust, $3190 for torque vectoring and $2710 for active suspension.

Fuel consumption during the week averaged 11.8L/100km, which would make it cheaper to run than the last of the flat-six models.

Why should/shouldn’t I buy it?

The Cayman S is certainly not for everyone. If you never drive for fun, buy something practical. But if you like to let rip on a track once in a while, the Cayman S is a formidable weapon.

The new engine is not everyone's preferred Porsche powerplant, but there's no denying it goes hard when let off the leash. And the transmission provides a very user-friendly means of exploiting the engine's towering output.

Equally impressive is the precise cornering and strong brakes. It's not as refined for daily driving, but that's not what it's about.

When is it available in Australia?

Porsche has already commenced local delivery of the 718 Cayman range; just months after the Boxster with the same drivetrain option arrived here.

Who will it appeal to?
It appeals to fifty-something motoring journalists. But the Cayman S is primarily aimed at professionals with a level of disposable income that won't wilt under the weight of the Porsche's pricing and tax impost.

Buyers will choose the Cayman either because they have a second car for family transport duties, or they're in a relationship with no kids. The Cayman is a great choice for two to enjoy a spirited drive and a bed-and-breakfast type stay over the weekend.

There's enough room in the rear trunk for two overnight bags and the front trunk will accommodate a medium-sized suitcase.

Where does it fit?

According to VFACTS, the Cayman range – including the Cayman S – falls into the sports car segment over $80,000 but less than $200,000. That places it in competition for sales with cars the likes of the Audi TT and the Jaguar F-TYPE. Also in that segment are the BMW Z4 and the Mercedes-Benz SLC.

These same cars, the Cayman also, are categorised by motoring.com.au as performance cars over $100,000. But presumably most Cayman customers won't consider the rivals. They're loyal and committed to the Porsche brand. Even new buyers will have harboured a years-long aspiration to own a Porsche.

So, what do we think?

Porsche fans may tell you the four-cylinder engine lacks the charisma of the sixes. But light it up and it's a genuine firecracker. The new Cayman is much improved in other areas too. With all the right bits fitted, it handles, goes and stops significantly better than previous Caymans tested.

2017 Porsche 718 Cayman S pricing and specifications:

Price: $173,340 (as tested, plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol

Output: 220kW/380Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch
Fuel: 7.4L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 169g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: TBA