2019 Porsche 718 Cayman S & Boxster S Specs, Price, Photos & Review
Porsche revamped the Boxster S and Cayman S models with the new 718 generation. From the style to the power, both models were refreshed and are better than ever before.Starting with the power, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine power both new versions of the Boxster and Cayman. The standard models are capable of 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. When the S models are picked, the power is raised up to 350 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque. When the power is put to the test, the standard 718 models complete a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.7 seconds with the PDK attached (4.5 with Sport Chrono, 4.9 with manual). The S models see a quicker 0-60 time of 4.2 seconds with the PDK (4.0 seconds with Sport Chrono, 4.4 seconds with manual). Joining the new engine used in the 718鈥檚 were firmer springs and sway bars, optimized suspension, a steering rack that鈥檚 10 percent quicker, new brakes and much more. With the changes made for better handling and the upgraded power, the 718 Boxster and Cayman are the best track-worthy (non-911) Porsche that have ever been produced.
If understeer is detected during sporty driving, it gently brakes the inside wheels, which are under a reduced load, thus directing the drive force to the outside. The car turns into the curve and precisely follows the steering angle. Furthermore, an innovative traction control provides high traction and stability. Wheel slip is controlled directly at the power electronics of the electric motors, 50 times faster than before and even more precisely matched to the driving situation. For the driver, this is particularly noticeable in combination with the four-stage Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC). It offers a sport and offroad program in addition to normal mode, and can also be switched off entirely. The driver can thus increase performance in certain situations and choose to extent to which the ESC helps to stabilize the vehicle. In addition, the characteristics of the Audi e-tron can also be adapted to various types of terrain using the standard dynamic handling system.
Whether relaxed cruising, dynamic cornering or excursions off the beaten track, the driver can choose between seven profiles depending on the driving situation, road conditions or personal requirements: auto, comfort, dynamic, efficiency, individual, allroad and offroad. Besides the drive system characteristic and steering boost, Audi drive select also influences the standard adaptive air suspension with controlled dampers. As a result, there is a vast difference between smooth rolling comfort and sporty, stable handling. The air suspension with damper control is integrated into the electronic chassis platform and Audi drive select management. The pneumatic springs adjust individually to the road conditions depending on the speed and the driver's preferences, varying the ride height by as much as 76 millimeters (3.0 in) starting from the basic setting of 172 millimeters (6.8 in). On the highway, the body is lowered by as much as 26 millimeters (1.0 in), which improves stability and the aerodynamics, thus facilitating a long range.
In offroad mode, it increases ground clearance by 35 millimeters (1.4 in). If the driver also activates the "Lift" function in Audi drive select, the body is raised an additional 15 millimeters (0.6 in). In conjunction with the front angle of approach of 18.2 degrees and the rear angle of approach of 24.4 degrees with the offroad setting, the Audi e-tron is well prepared to tackle gentle offroad terrain. The ramp angle of the electric SUV is 16.8 degrees in this configuration. A key factor for the sporty character and outstanding transverse dynamics is the low and central position at which the drive components are installed. The high-voltage battery system is optimally matched to the dimensions of the Audi e-tron and is located between the axles in the form of a flat, broad block beneath the passenger compartment. The center of gravity of the Audi e-tron is thus on a level similar to that of a sedan. The front and rear suspensions of the electric SUV are five-link designs. This axle principle enables optimal absorption of transverse and longitudinal forces. Its mounts are sportily rigid in a transverse direction and supple and soft longitudinally.
All of which substantially improves comfort coupled with enhanced driving dynamics. Audi wraps the aerodynamically optimized 19-inch wheels with 255/55 tires that boast low rolling resistance without compromising handling or braking performance. As an option, Audi also supplies aerodynamically optimized 20-inch wheels with 255/50 tires and 21-inch wheels with 265/45 tires. The standard progressive steering adjusts its generally directly configured ratio to the steering angle. It becomes more direct with increasing steering angle, which provides handling advantages when maneuvering and in tight curves. The car can be moved agilely and precisely with little steering effort. The Audi e-tron steers into the bend spontaneously without understeer and remains neutral for a long time even at high speeds. All the while it feels astonishingly light-footed. Steering boost is increased at low speeds for easier maneuverability. The intelligent recuperation concept is also tightly integrated into the Audi e-tron's electronic management system. It is the most innovative system on the market and accounts for up to 30 percent of the range. The electric SUV can recover energy in two ways: by means of coasting recuperation when the driver releases the accelerator, or by means of braking recuperation when the brake pedal is depressed.