« Articles

Let’s get something out of the way up top: the Porsche 718 Cayman is not just a “baby Porsche.” Yeah, people love to throw that phrase around—probably the same people who think decaf coffee is just “coffee without purpose.”

But spend 15 minutes behind the wheel, and it becomes pretty clear this car wasn’t built to ride in anyone’s shadow. It’s got its own vibe. Its own snarl. Its own very real ability to make a boring Tuesday feel like track day.

And if you’re wondering whether this is just another shiny sports car with a big badge and an even bigger price tag—stick around. This isn’t some spec sheet regurgitation or overly polished dealership fluff. It’s a ground-level look at what it’s actually like to live with, drive, and maybe even fall a little in love with the Porsche Cayman 718.

First Impressions: It’s Like the Car’s Flirting With You

I still remember the first time I saw one in the wild. It wasn’t even moving—just parked next to a minivan at a grocery store. But somehow, even standing still, the Porsche 718 Cayman had that “I know I look good” energy.

Clean lines. Mid-engine balance. That subtle yet sculpted rear. It doesn’t shout—it smirks.

Climbing into the driver’s seat, you feel cocooned in purpose. The seats hug without suffocating. The dash is angled toward the driver like, “Let’s do this.” And the gear lever (bless it) still exists in all its tactile glory if you go for the manual.

This isn’t just a car. It’s a mood.

Under the Hood: Don’t Let the Four-Cylinder Fool You

Okay, let’s get controversial for a second.

Yes, the Porsche Cayman 718 comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. And yes, some Porsche purists still whine about it not being a flat-six like the old days.

But here’s the truth most people won’t admit: this four-cylinder rips. Hard.

With the base model putting out around 300 horsepower, and the S bumping it up to 350, the 0-60 times are seriously quick. And if you go all out with the GTS 4.0 or GT4, we’re talking numbers that will make your stomach flip—in a good way.

Throttle response is sharp. Power delivery is smooth. And the mid-engine layout gives it this perfectly balanced, corner-hungry feel. It’s like the car wants to carve every line tighter than your last attempt.

So yeah, it might not sound like a six-cylinder opera. But it definitely moves like it’s got something to prove.

How It Handles: Like It’s Reading Your Mind

This might sound dramatic, but driving the Porsche 718 Cayman 2025 honestly feels like the car knows what you’re about to do before you do it.

Steering? Razor sharp. Feedback? Just enough to feel everything without being twitchy. Suspension? Firm, yes—but not punishing.

And here's the kicker: you don’t have to be a pro driver to enjoy it. Even on regular roads, at totally legal speeds (okay, mostly legal), the car feels alive. It’s engaging in a way that makes you want to take the long way. Or loop around the block. Twice.

On winding back roads, it’s the kind of drive that makes you forget your phone exists. That rare combo of control, connection, and just the right amount of chaos.

Inside the Cabin: Surprisingly Comfortable for a Sports Car

Let’s talk creature comforts—because yes, this is a performance machine, but Porsche still knows how to make your butt feel like royalty.

The 2025 model comes with a sleek digital cluster, an upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (finally), and enough tech to keep things modern without going full spaceship.

Materials feel premium—no cheap plastic vibes here. The leather, the stitching, the minimalist layout… it’s all very Porsche, in the best way.

Storage? Look, it’s a sports car. Don’t expect a Costco haul. But you get a frunk (front trunk) and a surprisingly usable rear cargo space. Perfect for a weekend getaway, or at least enough room for your gym bag and a couple of Trader Joe’s runs.

The Soundtrack: Engine Over Infotainment

Let’s be real: most of the time, you won’t even want to use the stereo. Because the engine is the soundtrack—and it’s got range.

In Normal mode, it’s relatively chill. But flick it into Sport or Sport Plus? The whole car wakes up. Pops, crackles, turbo whooshes—it’s enough to make you grin like an idiot at every stoplight.

Honestly, the exhaust note alone makes it feel like you’re driving something far more exotic.

Read Along: Porsche 2026 Infotainment: AI, AR & Wireless Tech Revolution

Practicality Check: Can You Daily a 718 Cayman?

Short answer? Yep. Long answer? Depends on your tolerance for attention.

The Porsche 718 Cayman isn’t some impractical diva. It’s low, sure, and you’ll probably scrape the front lip once or twice if you're not careful with parking lot entrances (ask me how I know). But it’s not a nightmare to drive in traffic or park in tight spots.

Fuel economy is surprisingly decent for a car with this much performance (especially if you’re not flooring it every chance you get). And with Porsche’s rock-solid build quality, it feels like something that’ll still be purring five years down the line.

So yeah, you can daily it. Just be prepared for strangers to ask, “How fast is it?” while you’re trying to pump gas.

The Price Tag: Worth It?

Okay, here’s the big one: Porsche Cayman 718 price.

The base model starts just under $70K. Add a few must-haves—sport exhaust, PASM suspension, maybe a premium paint job—and you’re easily north of $80K. Want the GTS or GT4? You’re flirting with six figures.

So… is it worth it?

That depends on what you’re after. If you just want a flashy badge or straight-line speed, there are other cars that do it cheaper.

But if you want engagement—a car that makes you a better driver, that reminds you why you fell in love with driving in the first place—the Porsche 718 Cayman delivers in spades.

It’s not just about speed. It’s about feel. And in a world full of numb steering and soulless tech, that’s a big deal.

What’s New in the 2025 Model?

The Porsche 718 Cayman 2025 doesn’t reinvent the wheel—but it polishes the heck out of it.

Think subtle design tweaks, better infotainment, and a few new customization options. Porsche’s keeping things familiar, but adding just enough freshness to keep buyers excited.

One interesting note: there are rumors this generation might be the last before Porsche goes electric with the 718 line. So if you’ve been dreaming of grabbing a gas-powered Cayman before it becomes a museum piece—this might be the time.

Who’s It For?

Let’s break it down.

The Porsche Cayman 718 isn’t for everyone. If you need space for a growing family, or if your idea of fun is setting cruise control and letting the car do the work—look elsewhere.

But if you:

• Love driving for the sake of driving
• Appreciate precision engineering
• Don’t mind trading practicality for passion
• Want a sports car that’s as refined as it is fun

Then yeah, this car might just be your soulmate.

Also Read: Porsche 918 Spyder: The Ultimate Hybrid Supercar Review

Final Thoughts: It’s More Than Just a Porsche

Here’s the thing—when people think “Porsche,” their minds usually jump straight to the 911. And fair. It’s iconic. But there’s something refreshing about the Porsche 718 Cayman being the underdog.

It’s the car that makes you feel like a better driver. The car that teaches you what balance really means. The car that doesn’t scream for attention, but earns it anyway.

So whether you’re a seasoned car junkie or someone just starting to look beyond daily drivers, the Cayman’s worth a serious look.

It’s not just one of the best “entry-level” sports cars—it’s one of the best sports cars, period.