2009 Porsche Cayman: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Porsche Cayman receives slightly freshened styling and more power. These two-seat coupes share their basic design with the Porsche Boxster convertible. Like Boxster, Cayman comes in Base and sporty S trim levels, each with a horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine. The Base has a 265-hp 2.9-liter, which replaces a 245-hp 2.7. The S reprises its 3.4-liter 6-cylinder, but the 2009 version has 320 hp versus the 295 in 2008 models. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard. A new 7-speed automatic, which replaces the previous 5-speed automatic, is optional. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and side airbags that provide head and torso protection. Porsche's optional Sport Chrono Package returns, and it includes a sport button, which modifies throttle, traction, and suspension settings to suit high-performance driving. Heated and cooled seats are available, as is a touch-screen navigation system. We have not yet tested the 2009 Porsche Cayman.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buys are the Audi A5 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the BMW 1-Series, Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Nissan GT-R, and Porsche 911.