Porsche 718 GTS: Now with 4.0 Litre flat-six power

What you need to know about the Porsche 718 GTS

TheMotorist talks about the new 2020 Porsche 718 GTS and provides an Introduction & Specs

If you’ve driven the Porsche 718 in Cayman or Boxter guise, you may understand that the engine is maybe the most significant issue with the car’s ability to create authentic, purist driver engagement. The turbo 2.5 Boxer engine feels somewhat out of place, not in power or even the delivery but the theatrics that the engine should provide in a sports car. The older generation of engines poses serious auditory evocation as it climbs through the rev range and on to redline. A statement even that maybe is better emphasized by the fact that the engine feels like a power plant and not a heart like it should, making the experience less engaged compared to before. 

Purists were properly upset with not only the engine but so to the sacrilegious name 718, lifted from the 1950s and 60’s single-seater racers. The package makes a great deal of sense given the dynamic chassis and ability and the pure rapidness but lacking somewhat in emotive connection, with the more comfortable less on the edge feeling not dulling the car. 

Porsche 718 GTS Performance

Seeking redemption Porsche has taken the Cayman GT4 drivetrain and 6-speed manual gearbox to create the 2020 Porsche 718 GTS. Power is rated at 294kW and 420Nm which when translated into acceleration results in a 4.5second 0-100 and a 295km/h top speed.

Dynamically, the Porsche 718 GTS ride height is lower 20mm from the standard 718 and 718 T, with a torque-vectoring limited-slip differential to keep the 265/35 R20 rears in check. Upfront, red brake callipers and vented cross-drilled disks with the optional Porsche Composite Ceramic Brakes available at extra cost.

Internally the Porshe 718 GTS benefits from the addition of Alcantara cladding through the cabin, with inserts on the steering wheel, centre console and seats. Carbon trim is accentuated throughout the interior of the Porsche 718 GTS, with the optional interior package with the choice of Chalk or Charmine red seatbelts, seams and embroidering in the headrest with the GTS insignia.  The Sport Chrono package with upgraded Porsche Track Precision App is fitted standard for the track hero. Sports exhaust with the twin tailpipes allow the 4.0litre to roar as it should but, for traffic and pottering around town the Bose Sound System will provide more than enough noise. 

Porsche 718 GTS Pricing in South Africa 

No prices have been announced as yet but expect a premium over the midrange Porsche 718 T and a lower price than the uber focused GT4 model. Find your local dealer here.