Porsche brings PDK to flagship 718 Cayman and Spyder

Porsche has introduced a new PDK dual-clutch automatic gearbox option for its six-cylinder Cayman and Boxster models as an alternative to a manual, as is already the case with the four-cylinder variants.

The new seven-speed dual-clutch auto is available to order across all 718 models with the new 4.0-litre engine, including the Cayman and Boxster GTS, Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder. It offers “high-performance gearshifting functionality for the fastest circuit lap times, with highly efficient operation for everyday use”, claims Porsche.

As is often the case with quick-shifting dual-clutch ’boxes, the PDK-equipped GT4 and Spyder can both now do the 0-100km/h sprint half a second quicker than the manual models, at 4.0sec. The 0-200km/h time is 0.4sec quicker, showing that the benefits are mainly at lower speeds. Launch control also features on the PDK models, helping performance further.

The GTS versions also see a half-second improvement in the 0-100km/h time, both managing the sprint in four seconds dead. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced, too; the GT4 and Spyder emit 8g/km less and promise an improvement on the WLTP cycle.

Shift characteristics are adjusted in four different driving modes for PDK models, with Sport mode giving faster gearchanges and earlier downshifts with auto throttle blips. Sport Plus activates a race start function, with the Sport Response button bringing maximum attack regardless of drive mode. The seventh gear ratio is also shorter than in the manual versions.

Porsche Cayman and Spyder PDK Australian Pricing

                                            Manual                      with optional PDK

718 Cayman GTS 4.0           $172,000                       $177,990

718 Boxster GTS 4.0            $174,800                      $180,790

718 Spyder                         $196,800                      $201,890

718 Cayman GT4                 $206,600^                    $211,690