PORSCHE DOWNSIZES Whether we like it or not change in the modern automotive world is inevitable and downsizing is all the rage at the moment . Thus , in an effort to boost performance but reduce pollutants , the Flat-Six engine that powered the Porsche Cayman has gone to be replaced by the same new flat fourcylinder engines with turbocharging as is featured in the sibling 718 Boxster .

The base version starts with 296bhp from two litres of displacement . The faster S model delivers 346bhp from 2.5L .

There are many other tweaks , including to the styling , infotainment and some suspension parts are lifted from the GT4 but otherwise the 718 Cayman is the same as before , only different . The changes are subtle ; the domed front wings , the neat Bi- Xenon light clusters and the under-spoilers all add up to a convincing whole .

DRIVING PLEASURE Lateral rigidity and wheel tracking have been improved in the completely re-tuned chassis of the 718 Cayman . Springs and stabilisers have been designed to be firmer and the tuning of the shock absorbers has been revised .

The steering , which has been configured to be 10 % more direct , enhances agility and driving fun . The rear wheels , which are one-half of an inch wider , in combination with redeveloped tyres result in an increased lateral force potential and hence in greater cornering stability . In short , this is a real drivers car .

Driving dynamics options such as the Sport Chrono Package and Porsche Torque Vectoring allow the sporty character of the 718 Cayman to be further customised . Another available option is PASM with a 10mm lowering of the ride height . The

Sport Chrono Package can be adjusted via the programme switch on the steering wheel .

To take into account the car ’ s greater driving performance capabilities , stronger brake systems are now in use . The 718 Cayman now has the brake system that was previously used in the Cayman S . The 718 Cayman S , on the other hand , uses the four-piston calipers of the 911 Carrera combined with thicker brake discs .

INSIDE THE CAYMAN Inside , optional extras include Sports Seats Plus that are part leather and part Sport-Tex cloth . A must-have . Play around with the electrically adjustable seat and achieve the perfect driving position . It is low and cossetting as it should be . The wheel is a delight to hold and the pedals sit just right for some old-school ‘ heel and toe ’ action

if that ’ s your thing . As you would expect , all the usual technology suspects are on board , including Bluetooth , Apple Car Play and Porsche Car Connect . It is hard to find the words to express just how good this car is .

This is arguably the best car of its type currently on the market . In base form it will cost a relatively modest £ 40,000 ( CO ² 168g / km / BIK 32 for 2017 / 8 ) but extras – and you ’ ll want the extras – will drive up the price . This is the Porsche way . The company reckon than 38mpg is possible but to me seems unrealistic in the real world . This car demands to be driven . You might not need it for business but you will certainly want it for pleasure .

Written by Geoff Maxted www . drivewrite . co . uk