2017 Porsche Cayman GTS 2.5L 6MT RWD (365 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Porsche introduced the GTS version of the Cayman in 2017 by integrating most of the performance options that could be ticked on an S version of the same car, and then added more power.

Unlike its roadster sibling, the Boxster, the Cayman came later on the market. It surprised customers not just because it was more affordable but also because it was better in terms of handling. Its stiffer unibody construction compared to the roadster and lower weight forced many of its detractors to admit that the Boxster/Cayman lineup was not a “poor man’s Porsche” but a “smart man’s Porsche.” After all, the lack of the rear seats didn’t bother anyone. Furthermore, since its engine was placed in the middle of the car, it was more balanced than its famous 911 sibling. But the GTS version was not just a better vehicle in terms of acceleration, thanks to its more potent engine than the Cayman S, it was better around the track because of the whole package, delivering a more pleasant experience for its customers, regardless if they were behind the wheel or on the passenger side.

From the outside, the front fascia of the Cayman GTS looked almost identical to the rest of the range, but a keen eye for detail could notice the black background of the headlights. As a result, the four dots of the LED daytime running lights looked brighter. The lower bumper also looked different. It sported black trims on the apron and redesigned air intakes, where the one in the middle was narrower on its upper side. Porsche also added LED turn signals and parking lights above the side scoops.

Its low-slung profile was unchanged from the rest of the Cayman range, but a few details made the GTS version stand apart from its siblings. The car came fitted as standard with Porsche’s Chrono Package, which included a 10-millimeter (0.4-inch) lower ground clearance than a standard Cayman. In addition, a contrasting badging sporting GTS lettering adorned the doors in their front lower area. Porsche also insisted on dark exterior accents and providing the car with black wheels and side air intakes. At the back, behind the broad and sloped down tailgate, it added a wing that could be automatically or manually deployed. It also sported smoked taillights and, finally, below the bumper, cutting their way through the black valance, there was a pair of tips system for the sports exhaust.

Porsche extended the long list of standard features inside the open-top vehicle. The sports seats featured Alcantara centers with black leather on the high-bolstered areas and integrated headrests. The same material was used to cover the door cards, the steering wheel, and even the gear selector. On the center stack, the automaker placed a seven-inch touchscreen for the PCM infotainment system. This supported Apple CarPlay connections but no Android Auto. On the dashboard, the 2018 Porsche Cayman GTS came fitted with a chronometer, which was part of the standard Chrono Package that equipped the vehicle.

But the most crucial upgrade was behind the cabin. Porsche installed an upgraded version of the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine from the Cayman S. It provided 15 more HPs than that, reaching a total of 365 PS (360 hp). It was paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic (dual-clutch) PDK gearbox. The former’s maximum torque was slightly lower than the latter’s. A mechanical self-locking differential was also a standard feature.