Porsche has broadened the range of 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman models with the launch of a new range-topping 718 GTS edition, sitting above the existing S variants. With 365hp, they’re the most potent 718 models yet.
The 718 GTS variants use the same 2.5-litre flat-four boxer turbo engine as the regular 718 S but, with a new intake system and tweaked turbo, offer a 15hp boost over the S – and a 35hp improvement over the previous six-cylinder GTS model.
Mindful of the cars’ purist and driver-focused nature, Porsche fits a six-speed manual gearbox as standard; those seeking ultimate acceleration times should choose the PDK double-clutch auto.
When equipped with PDK, engaging the standard Sport Chrono’s Launch Control will summon 0-62mph acceleration in 4.1 seconds – that’s faster than an £80,377 Porsche 911 Carrera with PDK and Launch Control. Both GTS will do 180mph all-out.
Porsche fits its Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) system as standard to all 718 GTS, along with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and a mechanical limited slip differential. PASM means the body sits 10mm lower than the standard 718 S.
Visually, the 718 GTS also get a Sport Design front bumper, black-tinted lights front and rear, a black rear apron and black tailpipes – a sports exhaust is standard. There are also black rear badges and GTS logos on the doors plus, of course, black 20-inch alloys.
Inside, it’s again moody; plenty of dark-finish Alcantara is brightened up by red GTS logos – the seats themselves are standard sports seats ‘Plus’, and Porsche also chucks in the Porsche Track Precision App: keen track-day users can record driving data to their smartphone for detailed analysis (and showing off to their wife/kids/mates) later.
Ordering is open now and Porsche expects deliveries of the first 718 GTS models just before Christmas. Prices? The 718 Cayman GTS is £59,866, the 718 Boxster GTS is £61,727.