2006 Porsche Boxster and Cayman: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Porsche expands its line of two-seat midengine sports cars for 2006, adding a hatchback coupe version to the carryover convertible. The coupe is called the Cayman. It's based on the less expensive Boxster, which has a power-folding fabric top with heated glass rear window. They share underskin architecture and wheelbase, as well as the midship positioning of a horizontally opposed 6-cyl engine. Both models have front and rear cargo compartments.

Boxster comes in base form with 240 hp and as the S model with 280 hp. The base Cayman has 245 hp, the Cayman S 295. All variants offer a choice of 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic; base models are also available with a 5-speed manual. The automatic has manual-shift capability via floorshifter or steering wheel buttons. Both cars have ABS, traction/antiskid control, and side airbags. Leather upholstery is standard on all. Other options include a navigation system and Porsche's Sport Chrono Package, which includes a dashboard stopwatch and controls that modify throttle, traction, and suspension systems to suit racetrack-type driving. Also optional is Porsche's Active Suspension Management with normal and sport settings.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buy is Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz CLK.