Porsche 718 Cayman S Review: The Complete Sports Coupe

The Porsche 718 Cayman S has long been regarded as the “junior” Porsche, often overshadowed by the 911. But in its latest form, it’s hard to keep calling it junior, because it offers one of the most complete sports car experiences on the market. For many of our customers, this is the coupe that ticks every box: performance, handling, everyday usability, and value compared to a 911.

Power and Performance

Like the 718 Boxster, the Cayman S swapped its old six-cylinder engines for a new generation of turbocharged four-cylinder “boxer” units. In the S, you get a 2.5-litre turbo flat-four with 350PS – a healthy jump over the previous model.

With the optional seven-speed PDK auto, the Cayman S sprints from 0–62mph in just 4.2 seconds and tops out at 177mph. A six-speed manual is standard for purists, but whichever you choose, performance is strong enough to match a base 911 Carrera, for around £35,000 less.

Handling: A Pure Porsche

The Cayman has always been about handling, and this 718 version raises the bar again. With a longer wheelbase, wider front track, and a body almost twice as stiff as before, the Cayman S feels rock solid yet agile. The mid-engine layout delivers perfect balance, making it one of the most confidence-inspiring sports cars you can drive.

Steering is now electro-mechanical rather than hydraulic, but it remains precise and full of feel. Add in options like the Sport Chrono Package and adaptive suspension systems, and you can fine-tune the Cayman into a car that’s just as happy on a B-road blast as it is lapping a circuit.

Many reviewers call it the best-handling sports car on sale, and it’s hard to argue.

Styling and Presence

Porsche has sharpened the Cayman’s looks with the 718 generation. The nose is lower and more aggressive, with slim Bi-Xenon headlights above reshaped air intakes. Sculpted wheel arches and a longer wheelbase enhance its stance, while at the rear, a high-gloss black strip with an integrated Porsche badge connects the redesigned taillights.

It’s a more cohesive, grown-up design that looks like it should cost more than it does, precisely what you want from a sports coupe.

Inside the Cabin

The Cayman’s interior has also had a lift. A redesigned dashboard and air vents bring it in line with Porsche’s more expensive models, and the new sports steering wheel takes inspiration from the 918 Spyder hypercar.

The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system is now standard, offering Bluetooth, smartphone integration, and audio interfaces, with optional navigation and online features. The build quality is superb, and despite being a compact coupe, it feels truly premium inside.

One of the Cayman’s surprises is its practicality. With a 275-litre rear boot and a 150-litre “frunk” up front, you get a total of 425 litres of storage more than some hatchbacks. It makes the Cayman a sports car you can genuinely live with.

718 Caymen Pricing and Options

The 718 Cayman S starts at around £50,000, the same as its Boxster sibling. However, like all Porsches, the options list is extensive and expensive. Most buyers add £10,000–£15,000 in extras, from the PDK gearbox to performance upgrades, suspension tweaks, and luxury features.

Even so, the Cayman S represents substantial value. You’re getting performance close to a 911 Carrera, with sharper handling balance, for significantly less money.

Efficiency and Running Costs

Despite its performance, the Cayman S is relatively efficient. With the PDK gearbox, it returns close to 40mpg combined (around 4mpg better than before) and CO2 emissions stay under 185g/km.

Porsche’s clever PDK gearbox also contributes to efficiency, offering a “sailing mode” that decouples the engine when coasting, thereby saving fuel. Residual values are strong, and Porsche reliability is excellent, making the Cayman S one of the more sensible sports car buys.

Why It’s a Customer Favourite

Among our customers, the 718 Cayman S is one of the most popular Porsches. It’s easy to see why: it combines everyday usability with thrilling performance and Porsche’s world-class handling. For many, it’s the sweet spot – offering the experience of a Porsche sports car without the higher costs of a 911.

It’s fast, sharp, surprisingly practical, and still holds its value well. Quite simply, it’s one of the most complete sports coupes you can buy today.

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