Porsche busts out new Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS

Baby 911. The poor man's Porsche. That's what they called the Boxster when it debuted some 20 years ago. They said the same of the first Cayman when it arrived a decade later, but they stopped saying it when the latest iterations hit the scene two years ago. That's because Zuffenhausen's entry-level models have long since stepped out of their big brother's shadow and into their own. And that appears to be all the more true of the new Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS.

Based on the Boxster S and Cayman S, the new GTS models benefit from an enhanced 3.4-liter flat six that produces 330 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque in the roadster or 340 hp and 280 lb-ft in the coupe – representing an increase of 15 hp and 7 lb-ft in either model. Both also come with the Sport Chrono package as standard, along with adjustable suspension and 20-inch alloys, blacked out to match the dynamic headlight surrounds and other muted trim.

Those disappointed by the unavailability of a manual transmission in the fire-prone 911 GT3 will be pleased to note that a six-speed manual comes standard, but those enamored of letting a pair of clutches shift themselves seamlessly will want to spring for the optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. So equipped and with launch control engaged, the Boxster GTS will rocket from 0-60 in 4.4 seconds, while the incrementally lighter, more powerful Cayman will hit it in 4.3. Either way you're looking at a third of a second quicker than the Boxster/Cayman S. The interior has been upgraded with Alcantara trim and sports seats, but while Porsche is offering a stiffer suspension lowered by 20 millimeters in Europe, it doesn't seem to be offering it in the US.

The first mid-engined GTS from Porsche since the 904 Carrera of 1963 will reach showrooms this summer with sticker prices starting at $73,500 for the Boxster GTS and $75,200 for the Cayman GTS, plus $995 for delivery. That makes both a good ten grand more than their S counterparts, but outfit either with the Sport Chrono package and PASM active suspension that come standard on the GTS, and a few other choice options to make your stand out, and that ten-grand price differential will soon evaporate - without the extra power to go with it. Scope out the details in the US-market press release below.


GTS insignia graces mid-engine Porsche sports car for the first time since 1963
Porsche introduces Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS models

Atlanta. For the first time, the Porsche Boxster and Porsche Cayman will be offered as GTS models. As is typical for Porsche, these models feature more powerful engines and additional standard performance equipment. The new Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS models are visually defined by more than just a badge: they offer as standard equipment unique front and rear fascias, blacked out Bi-XenonTM headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), 20-inch Carrera S wheels and a sport exhaust system with black tailpipes as standard. The Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS are built specifically for maximum driving pleasure.

The 3.4-liter 6-cylinder boxer engine of the Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS models delivers an additional 15 hp compared to their "S" model counterparts. This means that the Boxster GTS has 330 hp and the Cayman GTS has 340 hp. Torque has been increased by 7 lb.-ft. in each model: 273 lb.-ft. in the Boxster GTS and 280 lb.-ft. in the Cayman GTS. The Sport Chrono package is now a standard feature with either the 6-speed manual or the optional 7-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission. This means with the optional PDK transmission and Sport Plus button activated, the Boxster GTS reaches 60 mph from a standstill in 4.4 seconds and 4.3 seconds in the Cayman GTS. Top track speed for the Boxster GTS is 174 mph with a manual transmission and 177 mph for a Cayman GTS equipped with a manual transmission.

The Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS feature Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, which offers the choice of sportier or more comfortable ride settings at the press of a button. The 235/35 front and 265/35 rear tires on 20-inch Carrera S wheels provide the perfect setup for a balanced driving experience. Like other Porsche GTS models, the interior of the Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS feature an Alcantara® wrapped steering wheel, headliner, center console, and inserts on the standard Sport Seats Plus. Additional visual elements include GTS nomenclature embroidered into the headrests and printed on the tachometer face.

A specific standard of performance and uniqueness is required to wear the GTS badge. For example, the legendary 1963 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS was dominant on the racetrack and a spectacle on the street. The 1980s and 1990s saw the 924 GTS and 928 GTS refine this characteristic. In 2007 the GTS emblem was reintroduced on the Cayenne GTS and later implemented in the 911 and Panamera model lines.

The Boxster GTS is priced from $73,500 and the Cayman GTS is priced from $75,200, excluding destination charges of $995. Both models will be available for delivery this summer.