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Following the successful market launch of the Cayman S in autumn 2005, Porsche is introducing the Cayman, a new version of the mid-engined sports coupé that will go on sale in the UK in the summer. Based on the Boxster series, the two-seater is powered by a six-cylinder horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ engine with an engine-capacity of 2.7 litres and developing an output of 245 bhp (180 kW).

With its high and sustained propulsive power in the lower and medium speed ranges, the engine puts in an impressive performance. It has a top speed of 160mph, and with manual transmission accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds. The Cayman is convincing proof of the fact that outstanding performance statistics do not necessarily mean high fuel consumption. According to European standards, it consumes on average only 30.4mpg (9.3 litres per 100 kms).

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Courtesy of the Porsche VarioCam Plus system fitted to its engine, the Cayman develops a torque of 273 Newton metres available between 4,600 and 6,000rpm. Power is transmitted via a five-speed manual transmission with short, precise shifting travel. A six-speed manual transmission in conjunction with the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system is also available on request. As a third variant, Porsche offers the proven Tiptronic S five-speed automatic transmission, which has rocker switches on the steering-wheel spokes for manual over-ride of the gear shifting.

The Cayman rides on 17-inch light-alloy wheels of a unique design with five double spokes, fitted with 205/55 tyres on 6.5-inch wide wheel rims at the front; the combination at the rear is 235/50 tires on 8-inch rims. With the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system fitted as standard, the chassis offers outstanding levels of driving dynamics and active safety.

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The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system is available as an optional extra. The chassis ride height is lowered by ten millimetres, and the shock-absorber system automatically adapts to each particular driving situation. The driver can choose between the “normal” and “sport” programs by pressing a button on the centre console.

The Cayman can be further indentified by its black brake calipers, black front-spoiler lips, a titanium-coloured logo at the rear and also a trapezoidal tailpipe. The impressive interior boasts a comprehensive range of standard features including an air-conditioning system, a radio/CD player, seat covers in Alcantara leather, black-faced instrument dials and door entry trims with the Cayman logo. Because of the mid-engined concept, it boasts two luggage compartments with a combined volume of 410 litres, just like its big brother, the Cayman S. Along with many other storage features, this attribute highlights the sports coupé’s supreme practicality.

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In additional to two full-size airbags to guarantee the necessary level of safety protection in the event of a head-on collision, the ingenious Porsche Side Impact Protection System (POSIP), which features a chest and head airbag on each side of the vehicle, also provides excellent protection in side impacts.

The Cayman goes on sale in the UK and Ireland on 29 July and will be priced from £36,220.00 including a Porsche Driving Experience programme.