The Porsche Cayman has often been dubbed the “entry-level Porsche,” positioned below the iconic 911 Carrera in both power and price. The 2014 Porsche Cayman S could easily be seen as the younger sibling in the Porsche family. However, dismissing it as just a “starter Porsche” would be a grave mistake, especially when considering the automatic, or PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe), version. Having spent a week thoroughly testing the 2014 Cayman S with the PDK transmission, across city streets, long highway stretches, and challenging mountain roads, it became abundantly clear: this “Baby Porsche” is a formidable sports car in its own right, offering an exceptional driving experience that surpasses expectations.
| STATS | Starting Retail Price | As Tested Price | HP / Lb-Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 Porsche Cayman S (PDK) | $63,800 | $88,625 | 325 / 272 |
| EPA Rating MPG | As Tested MPG | ||
| Rating: BUY IT! | 20 / 28 | n/a |
Under the hood, the 2014 Cayman S boasts a potent 3.4L flat-6 engine, generating 325 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque. While a 6-speed manual transmission is available, the true marvel for many drivers is the optional 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission. This technologically advanced gearbox allows for lightning-fast gear changes and enhances the overall performance of the Cayman S. Equipped with the PDK, the Cayman S achieves 0-60 mph in a blistering 4.6 seconds (or even 4.4 seconds with Launch Control engaged from the Sport Chrono package), slightly quicker than the manual version. The top speed with the PDK is a thrilling 174 mph, just a hair shy of the manual’s 175 mph.
For those who prioritize sheer speed and seamless gear transitions, the PDK is undoubtedly the optimal choice. While purists may yearn for the engagement of a manual, the PDK in the Cayman S offers a driving experience that is both incredibly rapid and remarkably smooth. It provides the best of both worlds: the convenience of an automatic for daily driving and the responsiveness of a race-bred gearbox when you want to push the car to its limits. The steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters offer manual control at your fingertips, allowing for quick upshifts and downshifts whenever desired.
The 2014 Cayman S, regardless of transmission choice, features an electromechanical power steering system, a departure from the hydraulic system of previous models. While this change initially caused concern among Porsche enthusiasts, the new system proves to be exceptionally well-engineered. The steering remains quick, precise, and offers a satisfyingly weighty feel. While some might argue about a marginal reduction in road feel compared to hydraulic systems, in real-world driving, especially with the automatic Cayman S, the electromechanical steering enhances the car’s agility and responsiveness without compromising driving pleasure.
Like its manual counterpart, the Cayman S automatic offers multiple driving modes to tailor the car’s behavior to different situations. “Normal” mode is ideal for everyday driving, providing ample performance with a more forgiving ride for city streets. Engaging “Sport” mode sharpens the throttle response, loosens the traction control, while maintaining the same steering feel. For even more focused driving, especially on smooth roads or a track, the optional Sport Chrono package (often paired with the PDK for maximum performance) unlocks “Sport Plus” mode. This setting maximizes the car’s performance potential, delivering the most aggressive throttle mapping, gear shift strategy for the PDK, and chassis settings. However, for typical road use, “Sport Plus” is best reserved for truly spirited driving scenarios. The “Sport” button also conveniently deactivates the auto start/stop feature, which is part of the Cayman S’s fuel management system, contributing to EPA ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The auto start/stop system operates smoothly and efficiently, restarting the engine quickly when needed.
Inside, the Cayman S provides a comfortable and supportive environment for both daily commutes and enthusiastic drives. The seats are well-bolstered, keeping occupants secure during cornering, yet remain comfortable for longer journeys. The slightly increased wheelbase of the 2014 model translates to a bit more cabin space. Even taller drivers will find adequate headroom and legroom. The classic Porsche instrument layout places the tachometer prominently in the center, with a speedometer to the left and a configurable gauge to the right, displaying information such as navigation, temperature, or audio settings.
The infotainment system, while functional, may not be the most intuitive on the market, but it covers the essential features. Optional upgrades like the Burmester audio system offer exceptional sound quality, although for many, the captivating sound of the flat-six engine, especially at higher RPMs, is the preferred soundtrack.
Driving the Cayman S automatic on winding roads, both wet and dry, reveals its exceptional handling prowess. Even on damp surfaces with less-than-ideal conditions, the car remains composed and confidence-inspiring. The chassis balance, combined with Porsche Stability Management (PSM), ensures a high degree of control. In dry conditions, the Cayman S truly shines, exhibiting near-telepathic responsiveness. It feels incredibly agile and planted, allowing drivers to explore the limits of its performance with confidence. The car’s mid-engine layout contributes to its exceptional balance and neutral handling characteristics, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
Considering the price difference between the Cayman S and the base 911, the Cayman S automatic presents a compelling value proposition. While some may always desire more power, the Cayman S is engineered for driving engagement and precision, not just outright power. It’s about the connection between driver and machine, particularly when navigating challenging roads. The Cayman S responds to driver inputs with remarkable immediacy, creating a sense of effortless control and exhilaration.
Visually, the 2014 Cayman S is an evolution of its predecessor, with slightly larger dimensions and a more aggressive stance. The larger side air intakes are functional, aiding in cooling the mid-mounted engine, and contribute to the car’s athletic appearance. The rear design is particularly striking, with a seamlessly integrated spoiler and taillight arrangement that balances muscularity with elegance.
The starting price for the Cayman S is $63,800, and as tested with options, the price can climb considerably. Options like Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and the Sport Chrono package enhance the car’s performance and handling capabilities. While these options add to the cost, they further refine the driving experience.
In the realm of two-door, two-seat, hardtop sports cars, the Porsche Cayman S Automatic occupies a unique position. It arguably exists in a class of its own, offering a blend of performance, handling, luxury, and everyday usability that is difficult to match. While competitors exist, none quite capture the specific formula of the Cayman S.
On the TFLcar scale of:
- Buy it!
- Lease it!
- Rent it!
- … or Forget it!
The 2014 Porsche Cayman S automatic earns a resounding BUY IT! recommendation. It is a truly exceptional driver’s car that seamlessly transitions between daily driving, exhilarating backroad adventures, and even track days, all while upholding the high standards of luxury and quality synonymous with the Porsche brand. For those seeking a sports car that delivers both thrilling performance and the convenience of an automatic transmission, the Porsche Cayman S PDK is an outstanding choice.
