2023 Porsche 718 Cayman Review: Almost As Good As The 911

Of the premium sports cars in the USA, the Porsche 718 Cayman is one of the most accomplished. It is presented with a trio of engine options, starting at 300 horsepower and maxing out at 394 hp in the GTS 4.0, ensuring that you have loads of power to play with. Of course, the attractive styling of the car is extremely alluring. However, $60k is a lot to ask for a small car like this when the much quicker Chevrolet Corvette costs the same and the outgoing Audi TT is quite a bit cheaper. That being said, few rivals come close to comparing with this spirited coupe when it comes to sheer driving pleasure. It doesn't hurt that the 2023 718 Cayman is extremely customizable to fit the specific taste of just about any potential buyer. It's also far cheaper than the 911, making it an excellent way to get a foot in the Porsche door and open up a whole new world of motoring excellence.

What's the Price of the 2023 Porsche 718 Cayman?

Though a lot cheaper than other sibling models, the price of the 2023 Porsche 718 Cayman is still higher than the competition. Starting with the base model, it will cost you $63,400, while the T pushes the price up significantly to $72,500. From there, it is only a small hop up to the S at $75,400. To get the most powerful engine, you have to pony up almost $100k since the GTS 4.0 sells for $90,300. These prices for the new Porsche 718 Cayman are MSRP and do not include tax, registration, or the expensive $1,650 destination charge.

2023 Porsche 718 Cayman Handling and Driving Impressions

Though it may not be the most luxurious or powerful sports car at this price, the 718 Cayman is a perfectly balanced mid-engined sportster, and you'll be hard-pressed to find anyone willing to say a bad word about how this car handles. It is quick and agile, with one of the most finely tuned electric steering systems in the world - extreme precision with just the right amount of feedback to ensure an engaging driving experience. The Audi TT and BMW Z4 can't compare on this front. What's more, this focus on fun doesn't come at the expense of comfort, though the suspension can be a little stiff at times. The damping makes up for this and absorbs most bumps without fuss. Of course, all of this is enhanced in the GTS 4.0 model, which adds its superior engine outputs to the mix of the finely tuned suspension and incredible chassis, resulting in something many have called driving perfection.

Verdict: Is The 2023 Porsche 718 Cayman A Good Car?

Despite a lack of any changes or improvements in refinement, the 2023 Porsche Cayman remains one of the best driver's cars in the world. This alone makes it worth the high price of purchase, though there is more value to be found here. It won't be in the trunk, though, since it is laughably small. Luckily, there is a frunk that supplements this for an acceptable total. The interior is otherwise spacious for the two passengers that can fit. Comfort and convenience tech is present, though not excessive, but safety tech has to be added optionally, and there isn't a lot to choose from. You do need to pay a lot to get your hands on the sublime naturally aspirated engine found in the GTS 4.0, but there aren't many mills like this left in the market, and few come with such an incredible car attached. However, you could get a V8-powered Chevy Corvette for less, so there is that to consider. It's still cheaper than a 911, and the Porsche badge holds a lot more sway than just about anything you could find locally.

What 2023 Porsche 718 Cayman Model Should I Buy?

Though the whole range is impressive, we can easily understand why everyone wants the GTS 4.0. It is the only model equipped with the incredible naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine, and it takes the Cayman to new heights when compared to the base or even the S or T trims. That being said, it is absurdly expensive. Even the base model has a potent 300 horsepower on tap, though, and it still handles incredibly well. And, when you're only paying around $60k, you should have some pocket change left over to throw on some upgrades like leather upholstery or the Premium Package.