The Good
The 718 Cayman boasts unparalleled performance with precise handling and powerful engines, appealing to emotional buyers seeking driving purity. Its timeless design and strong Porsche reliability offer prestige. Surprisingly comfortable for a sports car, it's practical for daily use, holds its value well, and offers reasonable efficiency for its class, especially in base trims.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include the polarizing sound of the turbocharged flat-four engines in Base and S models, which some find uninspiring compared to the previous flat-six. Options are notoriously expensive, significantly driving up the price. Ownership costs for maintenance and insurance are high, and the interior, while functional, can feel less modern than some rivals.
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 718 Cayman (Base): 2.0L turbocharged flat-four cylinder
- 718 Cayman S: 2.5L turbocharged flat-four cylinder
- 718 Cayman GTS 4.0: 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six cylinder
- 718 Cayman GT4: 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six cylinder
- Horsepower:
- Base: 300 hp
- S: 350 hp
- GTS 4.0: 394 hp
- GT4: 414 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA combined estimates, manual/PDK):
- Base: ~24/26 MPG
- S: ~22/24 MPG
- GTS 4.0: ~19 MPG (manual only for 2020 initially)
- GT4: ~19 MPG (manual only for 2020 initially)
- 0-60 MPH Times (manual/PDK, with Sport Chrono where applicable):
- Base: ~4.9s / ~4.7s
- S: ~4.4s / ~4.2s
- GTS 4.0: ~4.3s / ~3.8s (PDK option became available later for GTS and GT4)
- GT4: ~4.3s / ~3.7s (PDK option became available later)
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (this is a high-performance sports car).
- Trim-Level Features:
- 718 Cayman (Base): 18-inch wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with 7-inch touchscreen, partially electric Sport Seats, Apple CarPlay, front and rear ParkAssist.
- 718 Cayman S: Upgrades to 19-inch wheels, larger brakes, sport-tuned suspension, and the more powerful 2.5L engine.
- 718 Cayman GTS 4.0: Features 20-inch Satin Black wheels, Sport Chrono Package, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) Sport (lowered 20mm), Sport Seats Plus, Alcantara interior accents, specific front fascia, and the 4.0L naturally aspirated engine.
- 718 Cayman GT4: The most track-focused, with a fixed rear wing, unique aerodynamic elements, 20-inch GT4 wheels, GT-specific suspension (PASM, mechanical limited-slip differential), larger high-performance brakes, GT4-specific interior, and the 4.0L naturally aspirated engine.
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2020 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 718 Cayman |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Coupe |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | STUTTGART |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1376.2 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1814.37 kg |
| Overall Height | 129.54 cm |
| Overall Length | 437.9 cm |
| Overall Width | 180.09 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 247.4 cm |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L H-4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $67,750 USD |
| Invoice Price | $61,110 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $1,350 USD |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Have?
One "issue" often cited, though not a mechanical problem, is the engine sound of the turbocharged flat-four engines in the Base and S trims. Many enthusiasts preferred the richer acoustic character of the previous generation's flat-six, finding the four-cylinder note less emotive.
Recalls for the 2020 718 Cayman have been relatively minor and are often shared across various Porsche models. These include, but are not limited to, potential issues with:
- Headlight Beam Aiming: Some 2019-2020 718 models had a recall for incorrect headlight aiming, which was typically resolved with a software update.
- Emergency Call System (eCall): A broader recall affecting several 2020-2021 Porsche vehicles concerned a potential malfunction of the eCall system, which also required a software update.
- Fuel Pump Failure: Certain Porsche models, including some 718s, were part of a recall regarding potential fuel pump failures. Owners should check their VIN for applicability.
How long will the 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman last?
Long-term durability is a hallmark of Porsche engineering; the engines, transmissions, and chassis are built to last. Weaknesses over time primarily involve wear items: suspension components (bushings, dampers) will eventually degrade, especially under hard driving. Interior materials like Alcantara or leather can show wear with age and use. High-performance consumables such as tires and brake components contribute to ongoing costs. Electronic systems are generally robust, but isolated sensor or module failures can occur, though not systemically. Overall, expect excellent long-term durability with proper care.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Regarding driver-assistance, the 718 Cayman maintains a focus on driver engagement, so it doesn't offer the extensive semi-autonomous features found in luxury sedans. Standard features include a rearview camera and ParkAssist (front and rear parking sensors). Optional driver aids include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, and Lane Change Assist (LCA), which monitors blind spots. More performance-oriented tech like Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), available with a mechanical rear differential lock, enhances handling but isn't a driver-assistance feature in the traditional sense.
Safety features include the comprehensive Porsche Side Impact Protection System (POSIP), full-size airbags for the driver and passenger, and head airbags integrated into the door panels. Standard active safety includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Porsche Stability Management (PSM), which encompasses traction control and stability control.
Crash-test ratings from agencies like the NHTSA or IIHS are typically not available for low-volume, high-performance sports cars like the 718 Cayman. Porsche, however, engineers its vehicles to rigorous internal safety standards, utilizing advanced materials and structural designs to protect occupants effectively.
What Colors Options are Available?
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Prices and Market Value
Porsche sports cars, particularly GTS and GT models, demonstrate strong resale value and slower depreciation compared to many luxury vehicles. The initial depreciation hit is often absorbed by the first owner. Factors affecting resale value include mileage (lower is better), impeccable service records, the vehicle's overall condition, desirable options (PDK, Sport Chrono, premium audio, specific colors), and the rarity of certain trims like the GT4, which can even appreciate.
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Cost of Ownership
Maintenance and repair costs are significantly above average. Porsche dealerships command high labor rates, and parts are expensive. Routine services (minor and major) can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Unexpected repairs out of warranty can be substantial. In summary, the 718 Cayman is definitely not an economical vehicle to own; prospective buyers should budget generously for its upkeep, fuel, and insurance.
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Fuel Efficiency
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Safety Rating
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2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of performance, the 718 Cayman is often lauded for its unparalleled chassis balance, communicative steering, and exceptional handling dynamics, especially in its GTS and GT4 guises. It feels more agile and connected than rivals. The BMW M2 Competition offers more raw, brutal power (405 hp) from its straight-six, with a more aggressive character but less finesse in handling. The Audi TT RS, with its 400 hp five-cylinder engine and quattro AWD, delivers scorching straight-line speed but lacks the Cayman's mid-engine RWD purity and steering feedback. The Corvette C8, also mid-engined, offers a powerful V8 (490-495 hp) and immense straight-line performance, with a more grand touring feel than the Cayman's focused sports car ethos.
For features, Porsche's infotainment (PCM) is functional, and Apple CarPlay became standard for 2020. However, many desirable features are costly options. The TT RS typically offers a more technologically advanced interior with Audi's Virtual Cockpit. The M2 has a more traditional BMW interior, while the C8 offers a radical, driver-focused cockpit with a lot of standard tech. Driver-assistance features are more limited in the Cayman compared to some rivals, reflecting its driver-first philosophy.
Reliability is a strong suit for Porsche; the 718 generation is generally considered robust for a sports car. BMW and Audi also have good reputations, though each can have specific known issues. The C8 was new for 2020, so long-term reliability was still being established.
Pricing for the 718 Cayman generally sits above the M2 Competition and can be comparable to the TT RS. The Corvette C8 offered tremendous performance value, often undercutting the higher Cayman trims.
Alternatives:
- BMW M2 Competition: A "better" alternative for those prioritizing raw power, a more traditional coupe feel, and rear seats, often at a lower price point.
- Audi TT RS: A "similar" alternative for buyers who want strong performance and all-weather capability with a tech-heavy interior, but are willing to sacrifice some driving purity.
- Chevrolet Corvette C8: A "better" alternative if a powerful V8, more aggressive styling, and exceptional value for a mid-engine platform are top priorities.
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman a Good Sedan?
It is absolutely worth buying, especially as a used vehicle. The initial depreciation has already occurred, offering significantly better value. For optimal enjoyment, consider a used GTS 4.0 for the naturally aspirated flat-six engine's sound and power, blending performance with road usability. The Base or S trims are fantastic for those wanting a daily driver with engaging dynamics. The GT4 is for the dedicated track enthusiast. While the flat-four's sound can be polarizing, its performance is undeniable. Test driving is crucial to ensure the sound signature meets your expectations.