Why Did Porsche Decide to End the Gas-Powered 718 Cayman and Boxster?
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a Porsche 718 Cayman or Boxster with that classic, throaty engine note, you might want to act fast. Porsche has officially stopped taking new orders for these iconic sports cars in their internal combustion engine (ICE) form. The decision isn’t just a temporary pause—it’s the end of the road for gas-powered 718s. So, what’s behind this bold move?
Porsche’s strategy is pretty clear: the future is electric. While the company recently announced plans to keep some combustion and hybrid models alive into the 2030s (think Cayenne and Macan), the 718 badge is heading in a different direction. There won’t be another generation of gas-powered Caymans or Boxsters. Instead, Porsche is putting all its chips on electrification for these models, with new EV versions set to debut in 2026.
This isn’t just about chasing trends. The automotive world is shifting fast, with stricter emissions regulations and growing demand for electric vehicles. According to the International Energy Agency, global EV sales soared by 35% in 2023, and Europe remains one of the hottest markets. Porsche’s move aligns with these broader industry currents—and positions the brand as a leader rather than a follower.
What Happens to Existing Orders and Stock?
If you’ve already placed an order for a 718 Cayman or Boxster, don’t worry—Porsche will fulfill all existing commitments. And if you’re hoping to snag one of the last ICE models, there’s still a chance. Dealerships can sell from their remaining stock, but once those are gone, that’s it. No more new builds. It’s a bit like the final curtain call at a legendary concert: get your ticket now, or you’ll miss out.
How Will the Electric 718s Compare to the Classics?
Let’s be honest—when you think Porsche, you think driving excitement. That’s why some fans are nervous about the switch to electric. Will the new 718s still feel like real sports cars? According to Porsche’s R&D chief Michael Steiner, the answer is a resounding yes. He’s promised that the upcoming electric Cayman and Boxster will feature motorsport-inspired braking and handling, aiming to deliver that authentic, connected driving experience the brand is known for.
The new EVs will ride on the Volkswagen Group’s PPE platform, which is purpose-built for electric performance cars. While the underlying tech is different, Porsche is making sure the size, styling, and spirit of the cars remain true to their roots. Spy shots of test mules show sleek, low-slung silhouettes that echo the current models. The goal? To make the transition to electric feel less like a leap and more like a natural evolution.
Why Aren’t the 718s Getting the Same Hybrid Treatment as Other Porsche Models?
It’s a fair question. After all, Porsche is keeping ICE and hybrid versions of the Cayenne and Macan around for a while. Why not do the same for the 718? The answer comes down to positioning and platform strategy. The 718s are sports cars first and foremost, and Porsche wants to use them as a showcase for its electric ambitions. By making the next generation EV-only, Porsche can focus on optimizing weight distribution, handling, and performance without the compromises that come with hybrid systems.
Plus, the PPE platform is designed from the ground up for electric vehicles. This allows for a lower center of gravity, better packaging, and potentially even more thrilling dynamics. It’s a bold move, but one that could pay off if the new models capture the magic of their predecessors.
What’s Delaying the Launch of the Electric 718s?
Originally, the electric Cayman and Boxster were supposed to launch alongside their gas-powered siblings. But as is often the case with cutting-edge technology, things didn’t go exactly to plan. Engineering challenges, software development hiccups, and battery sourcing issues all contributed to delays. It’s a reminder that even the world’s most respected automakers face real-world obstacles when bringing new tech to market.
That said, Porsche isn’t rushing things. The company is taking the time to get it right, ensuring the new EVs live up to the badge. Given the brand’s reputation for precision and performance, that’s probably a good thing.
What Does This Mean for Porsche Fans and the Sports Car Market?
The end of the ICE 718s marks a turning point—not just for Porsche, but for the sports car world as a whole. For purists, it’s a bittersweet moment. But for those excited about the future of performance, there’s a lot to look forward to. Electric sports cars offer instant torque, lower centers of gravity, and new possibilities for design and engineering.
Porsche’s move also sends a signal to the rest of the industry: the days of the gas-powered sports car are numbered. But if anyone can make the electric transition exciting, it’s Porsche. The company has already shown with the Taycan that EVs can be thrilling, luxurious, and unmistakably Porsche.
A New Chapter for an Iconic Nameplate
Change is never easy, especially when it involves saying goodbye to beloved machines. But the story of the 718 Cayman and Boxster isn’t ending—it’s just turning the page. The next chapter promises new technology, fresh challenges, and, if Porsche gets it right, the same pulse-quickening excitement that’s defined these cars for decades. If you’re a fan of driving, it’s worth keeping an open mind. The future might sound different, but it could be even more exhilarating.