Porsche recently unveiled the 2013 version of their mid-engined Cayman at the LA Auto Show with a host of upgrades that are claimed to have made the new car “lighter, longer, faster and more efficient”.
The new car has a 60mm-longer wheelbase that has allowed the designers to create a smoother silhouette and eliminate the sharply-raked style of the C-pillar from the previous model. There are small circular daytime running lights and some styling cues from the drop-top Boxster as well as front brakes from the 911. The side view is an evolution of the outgoing model with a reworked and larger air scoop. Standard equipment includes automatic headlight activation, electronic parking brake, auto stop-start function, CD audio with seven-inch touch-screen control screen, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a top tinted windscreen.
The car will be offered in two versions – a 2.7 litre 278.8 PS Cayman with 288.7 Nm torque and a 3.4 litre 329.5 PS Cayman S with 368.7 Nm torque. Customers can choose a six-speed manual or the seven-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic transmission (which also includes a costing function) on both versions. The optional Sport Chrono package with the PDK transmission includes a launch control feature. The 2013 Cayman maintains its strengths of responsive feel and predictable chassis behaviour with 40% higher torsional rigidity and a weight saving of 27.2 kg in the Cayman S. Also, the car now uses electronic power steering (in place of the previous hydraulic system) and a traditional suspension layout of front McPherson struts and rear multilink suspension.
Pricing-wise, the car slots in above the Boxster, with the Cayman starting at INR 28.6 lakhs and the Cayman S at 34.7 lakhs. Bookings for the car are open with the first units to be delivered in April 2013. The company is also rumored to be readying a sportier Cayman R to satisfy customers craving even more performance.
There is no official word on an India launch, but since the company has always been prompt in bringing its newest models to India, enthusiasts in this market can hope to get their hands on the new Cayman soon. Watch this space for more!
