New Entry-Level Porsche Cayman announced

Porsche has announced an entry level version of the Cayman S which recently won the 2006 World Performance Car title. Based on the Boxster, the new version of the mid-engined sports coupe is a more accessible version of the Cayman S, with a base price under US$50,000. The new Cayman is powered by a 2.7-liter six-cylinder Boxer engine producing 245 horsepower. Using the VarioCam Plus system, the Cayman provides a broad spread of usable power, with a plateau of torque peaking at 201 foot-pounds between 4,600 and 6,000 revs. In manual form, the new Cayman will go from standstill to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds (0-100 km/h, 6.1 sec) with a top speed of 160 mph (258 km/h).

Power is routed from the Cayman's flexible powerplant via a standard five-speed manual transmission with short, precise shift throws. Porsche will also offer the well-known Tiptronic S five-speed automatic transmission. The Tiptronic S provides rocker switches for shifting in the steering-wheel spokes, for those who seek a more engaging driving experience.

As a third transmission variant, a six-speed manual transmission, available in conjunction with the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system, is optional. The PASM system automatically adapts the shock-absorber system to the particular driving situation, and allows the driver to choose between "Normal" and "Sport" programs by pressing a button on the center console.

The Cayman rides on 17-inch light-alloy wheels boasting a unique, double-spoke design. Front tires are 205/55-17's fitted on 6.5-inch wide rims; the combination at the rear is 235/50-17 tires on 8-inch-wide rims. With the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system fitted as standard equipment, the taut chassis makes an responsive and involving partner in terms of driving dynamics and active safety.

Other special features of the Cayman are black brake calipers, black front-spoiler lips, a titanium-colored logo on the rear deck and a trapezoidal tailpipe. The impressive interior boasts a comprehensive range of standard features including air-conditioning, radio/CD player, seats covered in luxurious Alcantara leather, black-faced instrument dials, and door-entry trim embossed with the Cayman logo. Because of the mid-engine concept, the Cayman boasts two trunks, with a combined volume of 14.5 cubic feet (410 liters), highlighting the sport coupe's supreme practicality.

In addition to the two full-size occupant airbags, the Cayman is also fitted as standard equipment with the ingenious Porsche Side Impact Protection System (POSIP), which features both a chest and head airbag on each side of the vehicle, providing impressive protection in the event of a side collision.

The Porsche Cayman goes on sale in North America and Europe on July 29, 2006. Pricing for the new model in the U.S. is US$49,400 and in the UK will be priced from £36,220.00 including a Porsche Driving Experience programme.