Snappy new Porsche Cayman launched
2012-11-29 11:49
WATCH THAT TAIL! Porsche's all-new Cayman has been revealed at the 2012 LA auto show.
LOS ANGELES, California - Porsche has revealed the third generation of its Cayman at the 2012 Los Angeles auto show and it will be in South Africa from April 2013.
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The cars, Porsche says, have been completely redesigned to be lower, lighter, faster, more fuel-efficient and more powerful.
NOW MORE CAYMAN
They also have a longer wheelbase, wider track and larger wheels to ensure its performance also moves up the required notch.
After the new 911 and Boxster models, the Cayman is the third in the Porsche line-up to have the automaker’s lighter body. It is, Porsche said, as much as 30kg lighter while consuming 15% less fuel than the outgoing model.
The mid-engined, rear-wheel drive, two-seater was revealed in two versions – Cayman and Cayman S.
It certainly looks different to the previous model, featuring updated proportions, an extended wheelbase with shorter overhangs and an emphasis on a low, extended silhouette. New designs for 18 and 19” wheels have also been added.
The Cayman’s front is distinguished by large air inlets; the rear lid is aluminium and comes with a spoiler spoiler.
The Cayman is powered by a 2.7-litre flat-six engine capable of 202kW; the Cayman S uses a 3.4-litre running to 239kW. Each is offered with a six-speed manual transmission or Porsche's version of a double-clutch auto box with acceleration figures to 100km/h ranging from 5.4 to 5.7sec for the Cayman and 4.7 to five seconds for the Cayman S.
Top speeds for the Cayman and Cayman S are 266km/h and 283km/h respectively and fuel consumption ranges from 8.2 litres to 8.8 litres/100km.
The Cayman will also be upgraded with optional features including adaptive cruise control (for the first time on this model), keyless entry and a special Burmester audio system.
Porsche SA says the new Caymans are expected to arrive in SA “around April, 2013.” No local prices yet.
