The 3.4-litre boxer engine, however, shouldn't have any doubters. It has Porsche's VarioCam Plus system, which delivers variable intake camshaft control and valve timing, and was previously restricted to the 911's flat-six. The newly developed engine will produce 290bhp and 250lb ft of torque, although Porsche claims it has worked hard to produce an engine that pulls hard at lower speeds. Despite the slight increase in power, the 0-60mph time of 5.4sec is identical to that of the Boxster S, meaning that the weight saving of the Cayman S over the Boxster is unlikely to be as great as first thought.

A development of the six-speed manual found in the Boxster S with a 'short precise shifting action', will be standard, with a specially revised version of Porsche's five-speed Tiptronic 'box an option. As with the Boxster S, the Cayman S will be available with the option of Porsche's excellent ceramic brake discs.