PDK Comes to the High-End 718 Models

Recently, Porsche announced the addition of PDK models for the “718 Boxster GTS 4.0,” “718 Cayman GTS 4.0,” “718 Spider,” and “718 Cayman GT4”.

While the GTS models have been available with PDK before, the fact that Spider and GT4 models—previously only offered with manual transmissions—can now be equipped with PDK is great news for many enthusiasts.

Moreover, unlike previous 718 models powered by flat-four engines, the new “718 Boxster GTS 4.0,” “718 Cayman GTS 4.0,” “718 Spider,” and “718 Cayman GT4” feature the return of the 4.0L flat-six engine.

Although these are limited models, I’ve heard that production numbers might be somewhat substantial, so I imagine many people will want one.

PDK for the 718: Does My Husband Want One?

Several readers have asked in comments and messages, “What does your husband think about the addition of PDK to the 718 GTS, Spider, and GT4 models?” So I asked him, and here’s what he said:

Regarding the news that PDK is now available for the 718 Boxster GTS 4.0, 718 Cayman GTS 4.0, 718 Spider, and 718 Cayman GT4: the GTS has had PDK since the previous generation, but this is the first time PDK can be chosen for the GT4 and Spider, so it’s quite a hot topic.
Also, for the 718 Spider and 718 Cayman GT4, 0-100 km/h acceleration is about 0.5 seconds faster than the manual versions, approaching 911-level performance. That’s something unimaginable with older Porsches. In the past, Boxsters and Caymans were clearly kept slower than the 911 to maintain a distinct gap.
Personally, the GT4 with PDK is what I’m most excited about. I think it would be incredibly fast and fun on the track. But since there are rumors of a GT4 RS coming, if I were to buy mainly for circuit use, I might wait a bit for the GT4 RS.
As for the Spider, if I were to choose it, I’d want to enjoy the winding roads by syncing with the car through a manual transmission rather than just chasing speed.

Regarding PDK’s performance, he added:

Well… the latest PDKs are truly amazing, shifting instantly like a game, so I can understand why some find it even more fun than a manual. I usually drive manual Porsches and think I fully appreciate their charm, but the appeal of PDK is hard to ignore.
I think it’s better not to think of Porsche’s PDK as just an “automatic.” It’s that enjoyable.

I see… hearing him say that really makes me curious. I wonder if someone I know will buy one… haha.

*Article and images sourced from: Porsche dual-clutch transmission now also for flagship 718 models