The 2024 Porsche 718

Is there a specific equation for designing a sports car meant for a particular purpose? The recipe is extremely subjective, making it as elusive as Plankton trying to uncover the secret formula of the crabby patty. Fortunately, Porsche has continued to push boundaries with the 718.

Mid-engine configuration, rear-wheel propulsion, appealing sound, manual transmission option, and above all, low weight. We chose to not include the GT4 RS and Spyder RS versions due to their higher cost and superior performance compared to the regular models. 

The Porsche 718 establishes the standard for performance in entry-level sports cars with its mid-engine setup, lightweight construction, and exceptional driving capabilities. Even though it is in the compact sports car category, the 718 offers a surprising amount of space for a two-seater, and the base 2.0-liter engine can accelerate you to 60 mph in under five seconds.

Pros

A budget-friendly option for owning a Porsche sports car 

Outstanding results even at the most basic level 

A chic and appealing layout located in the middle of the vehicle 

Cons

Extremely limited cargo space 

Uncomfortable for individuals of a larger size 

Becomes costly rapidly 

This article offers in-depth details provided by the maker. When rating each model, we consider various metrics for evaluation.

What Can We Expect in 2024? 

The "Style Edition" is a new offering for 2024. True to its name, the Style Edition does not enhance any of the 718's mechanical components. Similar to the Cayman and Boxster T, the Style Edition is essentially a base 718 model beneath the surface. This includes a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.

The Style Edition also features deviated leather contrast stitching, extended leather, white or black contrast package (exterior stripes), black stainless sports tailpipes, and the 20" wheels from the discontinued 718 Spyder and GT4. With the introduction of the Style Edition, we also have the "Ruby Star Neo," which takes inspiration from the Ruby Star shade initially seen on the 964-generation 911 Carrera RS 3.6. 

Top Highlights in 2024 

The "Style Edition" trim was unveiled. 

Another choice available is the "Ruby Star Neo" color. 

GT4 and Spyder models have been replaced with Spyder RS and GT4 RS. 

Specifications and Performance of the Engine 

Porsche, along with Subaru, is the sole car manufacturer that still produces engines in the "Boxer" layout. Many people call the Porsche engine setup a "flat-4" or "flat-6", but in reality, a flat engine is simply a "V" engine with the cylinders placed at 180 degrees. 

In a boxer engine, every piston has its own crankpin that enables them to move in unison when compressing and expanding. The name "boxer" is influenced by this movement that is similar to Rock'em Sock'em Robots. Flat engines have a shared crank pin, which means that one piston is always compressing while the other is combusting. 

However, there is more than just the iconic six-cylinder boxer howl. The GTS includes the PASM and PTV systems as standard, enhancing the sports car driving experience. Both the base and S models offer the option for PASM and PTV, but they come at an additional cost. 

Technology and Comfort Inside the Vehicle

Top Interior Features

Basic Apple CarPlay 

Navigation that is accessible for use. 

Available choices for sound systems include Burmester and Bose. 

Porsche Connect system 

The inside of the 718 Cayman and Boxster is uncomplicated and peaceful in all variants. The climate controls use a straightforward button layout, while other key functions such as drive modes, convertible top operation, optional active exhaust, and heated seats are controlled with physical buttons.

Porsche manages to defy the button-less trend by possibly including an excessive number of buttons, which may overwhelm certain consumers. If you're not a music aficionado, the $917 Bose system should suffice as it is cheaper than the $3,047 option. Choosing the Style Edition includes deviated leather stitching in various colors and an extended leather package. 

Technology

The 718 has a basic touchscreen infotainment system equipped with Apple CarPlay. Regrettably, the availability of Android Auto connectivity remains lacking. Porsche was forward-thinking, meaning Android users could still utilize the CD player in the 718. You will need to revisit your old CD collection. Extras like navigation, ventilated seats, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are available at an additional cost. 

However, since the Cayman and Boxster are designed specifically as sports cars, the target market may not be bothered by the absence of modern technology in the interior. Porsche provides sufficient technology to make the Cayman and Boxster suitable for everyday use without detracting from the primary focus of the 718. 

Safety

Regrettably, there is no crash test data from IIHS or NHTSA for the 718 model. However, Porsche and its parent company, Volkswagen-Audi Group, are known for producing cars that perform highly in crash tests. Although safety data is lacking, information on the assumed dependability of the 718 is available.

Driver Assistance Features

The 718 twins are not recognized for being at the forefront of driver assistance technology, despite their advanced technological features. Ultimately, as vehicles are designed for drivers, the privilege of being behind the wheel should be reserved for the individual. Although the 718 lacks advanced driver assistance technology, it still includes essential features that are beneficial even in a vehicle focused on driving enjoyment.

Standard features on the base Cayman and Boxster include adaptive cruise, lane change assist, and park assist, which are also found in a Toyota Corolla LE as standard. Nonetheless, park assist is a beneficial addition for a car that has poor visibility from the back window. Porsche refers to it as "lane change assist," however, it is essentially an advanced form of blind spot detection. 

Adaptive (automatic) Cruise Control 

Blind Spot Monitoring, also known as Lane Change Assist. 

Assistance with parking 

Warranty

The Porsche 718 comes with a warranty of 12 years or unlimited miles for corrosion. If your Boxster or Cayman starts rusting prematurely like a second-generation Toyota Tacoma, Porsche will provide coverage.