Porsche's Upcoming 718 Will Utilize 911 Power, Though Purists Might Disagree | Carscoops

      The powertrain may be derived from the Porsche 992.2 GTS in an effort to reduce development expenses.

      Porsche is developing combustion variants of its upcoming 718 series, which could feature the hybrid flat-six engine from the 911 GTS in its highest trims. The electric and hybrid 718 lineup is set to launch in stages starting in 2026.

      Recently, Porsche has been altering its strategy, shifting away from battery-electric vehicles and back to combustion engines for the next-generation 718 Cayman and Boxster, which were initially intended to be fully electric.

      This change may resonate with traditionalists, although it's important to note that the internal combustion options will only be available in the top-tier models.

      For enthusiasts who prefer gas-powered Porsches, this development is a positive sign. New reports suggest that these mid-engine models might receive a hybrid flat-six engine sourced from the 911.

      CEO Oliver Blume indicated that this shift was a response to a noticeable decline in demand for exclusive battery-electric vehicles.

      To keep development costs manageable, the combustion variations of the next 718 series will rely on components shared with the 911, which will also assist in meeting Europe's stringent emissions regulations.

      According to Autocar, the anticipated setup for the next Cayman GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS is the T-Hybrid powertrain from the 992.2 GTS. This system combines a twin-turbo 3.6-liter flat-six engine with a single electric motor, delivering a total output of 532 hp (397 kW / 540 PS) and 449 lb-ft (609 Nm) of torque.

      This configuration presents a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six in the current Cayman GT4 RS, which produces 495 hp (368 kW / 500 PS) and 331 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.

      The T-Hybrid unit was selected for its compact design, measuring 110 mm (4.3 inches) shorter than the non-electrified flat-six engine in the standard 911 Carrera.

      While retaining their signature mid-engine layout for optimal handling balance, the 718 models will face a challenge. The hybrid powertrain is presently available only with the eight-speed PDK transmission.

      Unless Porsche engineers can modify the system for a manual gearbox—something that seems improbable due to size and hybrid integration concerns—this could signify the unofficial end of manual transmissions for the 718 lineup. For a brand known for driver engagement, this could disappoint purists, despite the availability of combustion engine options in the upper trims.

      Although the hybrid sports cars will boast ample power, they are expected to be slower than the fully electric 718 models in straight-line performance. On the track, however, the ICE variants may regain their advantage due to lighter weight, a more responsive chassis, and focused aerodynamics.

      Spy photographers have caught numerous camouflaged prototypes of the next 718 series during testing, although all were equipped with electric powertrains.

      Fortunately, independent CGI artist Antonie Brigot has produced renderings of a new ICE-powered Cayman GT4, showcasing Porsche’s latest design language and providing visuals for this report.

      The new generation of the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman is expected to launch in 2026, following delays from R&D challenges. The fully electric versions will debut first, while the hybrid successors to the GT4 RS and Spyder RS will follow later in the model cycle.

      This staggered rollout should provide Porsche engineers ample time to adapt the EV platform for the flat-six hybrid, ensuring it meets the brand’s high standards.