In a surprise move, Porsche has announced the arrival of two new additions to the 718 series, both equipped with six-cylinder engines. The 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 and the 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 share the same 394bhp four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine that powers the 718 Spyder and Cayman GT4.
Via a six-speed manual transmission, either car will hit 62mph in 4.5 seconds, running on to a theoretical top speed of 182mph. The powertrain is also extremely efficient, however, with adaptive cylinder control that switches off alternate banks at low loads, direct fuel injection with piezo injectors and a variable intake system.
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sports suspension is standard, as is a 20mm lower ride height and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with mechanical limited slip rear differential. Other standard equipment includes Porsche Stability Management (PSM) with separately selectable PSM Sport mode, the Sport Chrono package including the upgraded Porsche Track Precision App and Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts (PADM).
Visually, the new GTS models follow the same design theme as before, with contrasting black details such as Satin-Gloss Black 20-inch light-alloy wheels, a black spoiler lip, all-black air intake up front and darkened front fogs and rear light lenses.
Inside, Alcantara® trims the centre panels of the standard Sport Seats Plus, as well as the steering wheel rim, centre console, gear lever and armrests on both doors. In the fixed-head Cayman, it also covers the A-pillars and the roof lining.
The optional GTS interior package adds another colour: either Carmine Red or Chalk. This appears on the rev counter, seat belts, the embroidered GTS emblem in the headrests and the Porsche lettering on the floor mats. Other trim elements around the cabin are made of carbon fibre.
Both the 718 GTS 4.0 models come as standard with Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a high-resolution seven-inch touchscreen and the Sport Chrono package, including the enhanced Track Precision App. The online navigation module, with real-time traffic information, voice control and Porsche Connect are available as options, as are a BOSE® Surround Sound System and Burmester High-End Surround Sound System.
Both models will be available from the end of March 2020.