Porsche Confirms New Gas-Powered Boxster and Cayman Models

Porsche has announced a significant shift in its strategy regarding the 718 model line, confirming that both the new Boxster and Cayman will continue to feature internal combustion engines (ICE). Originally, Porsche planned to transition the 718 series to a fully electric format, but in light of recent developments, the company has opted to retain gasoline-powered options, a move that will please many automotive enthusiasts.

This decision comes after Porsche’s earlier commitment in 2022 to eliminate gas models in favor of electric vehicles (EVs). While the EV versions of the Boxster and Cayman are still under development, the company has acknowledged that completely phasing out combustion engines would be a detrimental choice. The current generation of the 718 is set to conclude production next month, but the new models will carry on with a traditional gas engine situated behind the seats.

In its latest “strategic realignment,” Porsche clarified that only the “top” versions of the Boxster and Cayman will retain the combustion engine. This suggests that the company may limit these gas-powered variants to high-performance models, potentially featuring RS badges or similar designations. Interestingly, the upcoming flagship 718 could see a reversal in pricing trends, where the gas version may become the more expensive option compared to its electric counterpart.

Porsche is currently assessing whether the next-generation Boxster and Cayman will share a platform with the less expensive EV versions. This could involve substantial re-engineering efforts since the new 718 was initially designed to be electric-only. Alternatively, it is possible that Porsche will update the Modular Standard Platform (MMB) introduced in 2016 for the 982 series. Developing an entirely new platform appears unlikely, as it would require significant financial investment in a niche market.

The decision to maintain gas-powered variants of the Boxster and Cayman reflects a broader strategy to adapt to shifting consumer preferences. It is important to note that these models will not be hybrids; rather, they will deliver a pure ICE driving experience. However, there will be a gap between the current and next generations, as the new conventional 718 is not expected until near the end of the decade.

Beyond the 718 series, Porsche has reiterated plans for a future gas crossover, which will include a plug-in hybrid option, slated for release in 2028 to replace the first-generation Macan. The all-electric Cayenne is also in the pipeline, while the three-row “Prestige” SUV, initially intended as an EV-only model, will now feature both ICE and PHEV options due to market conditions. Notably, the combustion-powered variants of this SUV will arrive ahead of the electric versions.

As for the iconic 911, Porsche has confirmed that there will be no shift to a fully electric model within this decade, a decision that aligns with customer expectations. The company is likely to expand hybrid options beyond the GTS and Turbo S models. Furthermore, the ICE Cayenne and Panamera are set to remain part of Porsche’s lineup well into the 2030s, with the company affirming that the V-8 engine will continue.

One notable absence from Porsche’s product roadmap is a supercar model. The company has not committed to producing the Mission X, and given the lukewarm demand for EV-only launches, introducing an all-electric flagship would present a considerable risk.

Porsche’s latest announcements represent a strategic recalibration that seeks to balance innovation with consumer demand, ensuring that both traditional and electric driving experiences remain available to its customers for the foreseeable future.