Car of the Day - Porsche Cayman - 2009

Car of the Day - Porsche Cayman - 2009

Porsche presented their second generation Cayman at the 2008 Los Angeles International Auto Show. The Cayman was presented alongside the matching new Boxster for the 2009 model year. In typical Porsche fashion it was a visually subtle work over of an already highly finessed design. Importantly, there was an increase in performance while also offering improvements in efficiency and fuel economy. With the second generation models Porsche also further distinguished between its two mid-engine models with differences to styling as well as providing a greater performance bump for the Coupe.

The new Cayman received a 20 bhp increase in output for the base 2.9 litre flat six engine. Now at 265 bhp (195 kW), the Cayman also received a 10 bhp increase over the Boxster. Also available was the 320 bhp 3.4 litre “S” option - up 25 bhp over the first generation model . Both engine choices could be coupled to Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe transmission (PDK, double clutch), or the standard 6-speed manual. The PDK option offers improved acceleration and better fuel economy and for the first time came in under the 9 litre mark at 8.9 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 26.4 mpg US) . The Cayman S with PDK also broke the 5 second mark for 0-100 kph at 4.9 seconds. Additional performance options include active suspension (PASM) and ceramic brakes (PCCB), these are available as part of one of the optional Sports Chrono Packages .

The steering and suspension were not neglected, both were refined and the steering valve control was re-mapped to reduce force and provide more spontaneous feedback.

Visually the Cayman received refined front and rear fascias with new halogen headlights featuring integrated indicators and at the rear new LED taillights. At the side, the new air intake design further differentiated the Cayman from the Boxster. Inside there is a new CDR-30 CD radio and the option of the PCM Porsche Communication Management system that can control all audio, communication and navigation features.

Rod Halligan