All-new entry-level coupe is based on the latest open-top Boxster but gets more powerful engines

It certainly looks better now... 

We agree. The second-generation Cayman from Porsche now really looks the part, thanks to Carrera GT-like details including the side louvres and the small fin protruding at the rear.

Porsche may not like this assimilation, but the Cayman is basically the fixed-top version of the latest soft-top Boxster, codenamed 981.

And the improvements are basically the same, that is, more performance, less weight than before by some 30kg and better economy by 15%.

So, the engine line-up is the same...

The interior comes in line with Porsche’s other recent offerings.

Yes it is, meaning that the entry-level Cayman now comes with a 2.7-litre flat-six downsized from the previous 2.9-litre variation. The go-faster S gets the same 3.4-litre size.

But for the sake of differentiation, the Cayman's outputs are slightly higher than the Boxster's: 275hp versus 265hp for the 2.7 and 325hp versus 315hp for the 3.4.

Equipped with the same seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, known as PDK in Porsche speak, the Cayman is quicker than the Boxster in a straight line.

The Cayman does 0-100kph in 5.4sec and 4.7sec _ 0.3sec faster than the Boxster. It's also worth noting that the Cayman S's time dips under 5sec for the first time.

And compared with the outgoing model, the Cayman is a good 0.7sec quicker in both guises. Fans of the 911 need not fear: Porsche has already ensured that the latest 991-series Carreras are still quicker than the Cayman.

That means the Cayman will be pricier than the Boxster...

Yes, and that's the whole idea of making the Cayman a little more punchy in power terms. Since the Boxster's prices start at 8.2 million baht in Thailand (when equipped with PDK 'box and Sport Chrono package), the Cayman asks for half a million baht more.

As for the Cayman S, expect to put aside 10 million baht. Judging from our past experience with Porsche, the Cayman S should be the pick.

Hey, there was always a price to pay with Porsches when compared to rival models. So just go for the spicier Cayman when sales start in March next year.

Cayman S hits 100kph in under 5sec for the first time.