718 Cayman GT4 RS

Make
Porsche
Segment
Coupe

Porsche has just made it official. Set to debut next week at the 2021 LA Auto Show is the fastest, most extreme and hardcore mid-engined hardtop coupe ever from the German automaker: the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. Captured nearly naked just a few days ago by our spy photographers, the GT4 RS features the usual RS enhancements such as additional downforce and a power increase.

Out back is a massive swan-neck spoiler while a new front spoiler is found up front. It looks fast even at a standstill. Positioned directly behind the driver is the same 4.0-liter flat-six found in the GT4 but uprated from 414 horsepower to around 450 hp.

You can hear that engine note in the teaser video. Porsche not only confirmed this will be the "most uncompromising and capable 718 ever" but also revealed it can complete a 12.8-mile lap of the Nurburgring Nordschleife in only 7:04.511 minutes. To put that into some perspective, it is 23.6 seconds faster than the 718 GT4 equipped with the optional PDK dual-clutch gearbox. The carmaker is also unveiling the track-only 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport at the show. And the fun won't stop there.

Two new Taycan variants will also be having their world premieres. The first is an "incredibly dynamic variant" slotted in between the Taycan 4S and Turbo.

If we had to guess, it sounds like the Taycan GTS is about to arrive. Next up is a "third body style." That description is vague but it'd be fair to assume it's the Sport Turismo GTS. Also scheduled for its first live appearance is the 2022 Panamera Platinum Edition, which made its online debut earlier this week. Porsche hasn't announced whether there will be a production cap on the 718 GT4 RS. We wouldn't be shocked if there is one given that this track beast is ultra-niche; it's clearly not for everyone.

We'll have more details for you next week direct from the showroom floor at the LA Convention Center.