② MT / Manual Transmission

The MT is tough until you get used to it. The clutch is heavy, shifting into reverse is stiff, and there’s a strong force trying to return it to neutral. But once accustomed, it’s no problem.

The short-throw shift feel is perfect, and you get a great sense of “being in control.” There’s no auto blipper since it’s without Sport Chrono, but it’s perfectly fine for everyday shifting.

③ Ride Comfort / Ride Quality

Though it lacks PASM, thanks to the standard 18-inch wheels, the suspension is supple with no unpleasant harshness. I think PASM is only necessary if you want to make an already comfortable 18-inch setup even better, or if you’re doing sporty driving or upsizing wheels.

④ Handling / Brakes

Being a mid-engine car with excellent cornering ability, winding roads are its true playground. Even in town, taking each intersection with a bit of speed delivers an unparalleled sense of unity between car and driver.

Though it’s completely stock without PASM, sports chassis, PTV, or Sport Chrono, the lightness and natural feel without electronic intervention are superb.

The brakes are stock and smaller than those on the 718S, but I don’t think it’s an issue unless you do sporty driving. I’ve never felt the brakes lacking on daily drives or highways.

⑤ Fuel Economy / Maintenance

About 7 km/L in city driving with Sport mode, and about 10 km/L on highways with Sport mode. I don’t drive in normal mode, so I can’t say.

It’s only been two months since delivery, but no issues or repairs so far.

⑥ Family and Others’ Reactions

・I haven’t told my family I bought a Porsche because I’d probably get killed (?!), lol.
・My Subaru enthusiast friend is thrilled every time he rides in it. Apparently, it reminds him of the wild Subaru sound.
・Since I can only have one car, I use it for commuting, and reactions at work range from envy to jealousy.

⑦ Favorite Points

I love the front mask design. The sharp, slanted headlights give a more aggressive impression than the round headlights of the 911, and the slim indicator lights at the bumper edges create a dynamic and sharp expression compared to the fog-lamp-equipped 987 and 981 models.

Personally, I prefer the normal front mask over the optional Sports Design Package because its moderate ride height and rounded form give a more elegant impression.

5) Options I Definitely Want on My Next Porsche

・“GT Sport Steering Wheel”
→ Since it’s a sports car, a smaller steering wheel is definitely better…

・“Sports Tailpipes”
→ I’ve recently started thinking the standard trapezoidal tailpipes look a bit uncool.

6) Concerns

Many automotive critics have already mentioned this, but it’s definitely the engine sound. Personally, I find it too rough and somewhat vulgar.

7) Overall Impression

Porsche is often said to rely on option sales, and if you add all the comfort options as a luxury car (a dated term) or all the performance options as a circuit machine, it certainly gets expensive.

However, even with just the bare minimum options on a basic 718 like mine, you can fully experience the essence of Porsche (dynamic quality).

If I were to describe the basic 718 MT with no performance options, it’s like “the ultimate bread & butter made with pure ingredients” or “simple is best.”

8) What Porsche Means to You

A first-class product, precisely crafted and high-performing by master craftsmen

〘Blog Administrator’s Thoughts〙
No matter which Porsche model people buy, they all say, “The ride and driving feel are unmistakably Porsche.” The Cayman is called an “entry-level” model, but don’t underestimate it—its performance is undeniably Porsche, and I was amazed when I first drove one. Naiya, thank you very much for sharing your experience!