Forza Horizon 4: The new 718

The last new Porsche that I won on the Winter Horizon Playlist is, like the facelifted Macan I drove a while back, another minor change Porsche but this time, it's a mid-engined sportscar that was known to be one of the best handling European sportscar in ages. Can you guess what that is?



If your answer is the 718 Cayman, then you are right because it is the 718 Cayman, in the mid-range GTS variant.



The 718 Cayman is the hardtop version of the 718 Boxster and this mid-range GTS variant which slots above the S pushes the 718 Cayman further to satisfy serious sportscar drivers. The 2.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine derived from the S variant has been uprooted to 365hp of power and 430Nm of torque. Mated to an available PDK and the standard Sport Chrono Package, it is capable of going 0-100kph in 4.1 seconds and onwards to 290kph. The GTS features a sportier and firmer chassis, Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porsche Torque Vectoring with mechanical rear differential lock, and an optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake. Such made the 718 Cayman GTS capable of lapping the Nurburgring in 7:40, 2 seconds less than the 718 Cayman S.



Like the normal 718 Cayman, the GTS variant is a serious sportscar that prefers substance over style. Yes, the turbocharged four-pot sounds a bit muted and won't wake the neighborhood in the dead of the night but despite its quietness, the handling is something you may call accessible and you can really get through corners like what a serious sportscar should. It feels like a Lotus Elise in so many ways and you can really feel just how corner-happy the GTS is. It's precise, smart, and downright fun when used wisely.



To test the 718 Cayman GTS's handling charm, I went to the circuit section of LEGO Valley where a squadron of modern sports cars awaited to give this 718 Cayman GTS a run for their money. Doesn't say much but challenge accepted for the 718 GTS. Roll the tape.

That should do the trick.



Indeed, the 718 Cayman GTS is not a sportscar made for the show-offs because it wants to be a serious car for serious drivers only who value performance and handling rather than style. Although a good-looking car full-stop, its dynamics are the true beauty of this machine and with that, you can't put that with a heated argument.

Enjoy your new ride.