Porsche has threatened to pull its existing contract with Magna to build the next-generation Boxster and Cayman in Austria starting in 2013. The Stuttgart automaker said that it may instead move production to Karmann in Germany. The move comes as Porsche aims to guard its engineering and production cost secrets for its upcoming roadster and coupe.

Insiders said that the plans to build the Boxster and Cayman in Austria are being heavily reviewed following Magna’s bid to take control of General Motors Opel brand.

At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn said that the German automaker, which is in the process of purchasing 49 percent of Porsche, may be forced to look for new engineering partners if Magna’s bid to buy Opel is successful.

BMW officials said that they are also studying whether “plans to build the Mini Crossover at Magna could be advantageous to Opel.”

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoWeek

Porsche tuner TechArt has unveiled a new customization kit for the new 2009 Porsche Boxster and Cayman models. The kit consists of two Aerokits, daytime running lights, a set of sport springs and a carbon fiber interior trim.

The Aerokit I and II adds a new front spoiler, a lip spoiler that matches the body-color, side sills, a rear spoiler, a rear apron with a diffuser and two round TechArt exhaust tailpipes in glossy or black chrome. The Aerokit II also comes with a multifunctional daytime running light system.

While no horsepower upgrades were added, TechArt did add set of sport springs to enhance the performance of the new Cayman and Boxster. The two models also feature TechArt’s Vario and VarioPlus threaded suspension chassis, which lowers the two models by up to 30 mm.

Both ride on TechArt’s Formula II, III forged light metal 19- and 20-inch wheels.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 TechArt Roadster / TechArt GT (Porsche Boxster and Porsche Cayman):

Press Release:

TECHART program for Porsche Boxster/Cayman

Leonberg – Porsche upgrader TECHART presents its new individualization options for the newest Boxster and Cayman models. Features include two Aerokits, daytime running lights, a set of sport springs, as well as carbon interior packages. “Our upgrade options enhance both the exterior and the interior, fulfilling our clients’ desire for more individual exclusivity,” explains Tobias Beyer, spokesperson for TECHART Automobil GmbH.

TÜV certified Aerokits
Both of the new Aerokits I+II from PU-RIM implement components that were tested in a wind tunnel to optimize their drag coefficients. In addition, the downforce on both axles is perceptibly higher. Essential Aerokit components are a front spoiler with a spoiler lip that match the body’s color, side sills, and a rear area that has been optimized in terms of both design and aerodynamics. The rigid rear spoiler and a rear apron with a diffuser look ensure greater stability at extreme speeds. Both models’ exhaust systems add a sporty touch to the striking rear design. Two round TECHART exhaust tailpipes in glossy or black chrome handle the rear exhaust flow. In comparison to series models, the engine sound is more sonorous and hollow, though it yields to a powerful crescendo at the highest RPMs.

New daytime running lights system in the Aerokit II
A multifunctional daytime running lights system was developed for both TECHART’s Boxster-based Roadster design and its Cayman-based TECHART GT design. The LED system units combine daytime, idle, and parking lighting in a single cohesive housing. The different modules are elegantly integrated into the upper part of the front spoiler. The light intensity automatically adjusts to the selected driving lights setting. Moreover, the daytime running lights dim automatically when either of the turning signals is active to improve their visibility.

Sporty chassis
The performance spectrum of the new individualization options is also evident in the chassis of the Boxster and Cayman. The 19- and 20-inch aluminum wheels expertly transmit the power of these 2.9 and 3.4 liter engines to the road. The TECHART Formula, Formula II, and Formula III forged wheels both ensure abundant ventilation for the wheel arches and allow the braking systems to be seen. The tight alignment of TECHART’s set of sport springs directly permit any steering angles. Thanks to TECHART’s Vario and VarioPlus threaded suspension chassis, the models can be lowered up to 30 mm during assembly and optimally adapted to suit the individual demands for each vehicle. To ensure sufficient traction for this high-performance system, TECHART recommends the Conti Pneu Sport Contact 3.

Exclusive interiors
Because TECHART runs its own saddlery, it can offer a nearly limitless variety of custom interior designs. For instance, the interior can be completely outfitted with the finest leather and decorative seams in contrasting colors. Moreover, carbon interior packages I+II further expand the options for high-quality stylizing of all ornamentation. Additional accessories like aluminum sport pedals, a 3-spoked sport steering wheel, or illuminated entry sills with individual logos round out the diverse options for the design of the interior

Specifications:

Body and chassis

Aerokit I
- Front spoiler I with front lip
- Rear spoiler I

Aerokit II
- Front spoiler II and II GTS with front lip and
- Multifunctional TECHART daytime running lights
- Rear spoiler II and II GTS
- Side sills
- Mirror moldings
- Track-widening package I
- TECHART Vario, VarioPlus threaded chassis

TECHART exhaust system

- “Racing” sport exhaust system rear silencer
- 2 round exhaust tailpipes in glossy or black chrome

Wheel-tire combination

- TECHART Formula, II, III forged light metal wheels, one-piece,
with Continental Sport Contact 3

Interior

- Cockpit hood
- Sport chronometer dial
- TECHART 3-spoked sport steering wheel
- Front and rear center console
- Individualized door trims and door handles
- Door entry sills in carbon/stainless steel with illuminated personalized logo
- Leather upholstery and decorative stitching in custom-selected colors
- Aluminum sport pedals
- Carbon interior package I + II

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Porsche’s majority control of Volkswagen AG will bring a lot of new possibilities to the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer. One of the many things being discussed is a 4-cylinder engine for the Porsche Boxster and the hard-top Porsche Cayman.

A Volkswagen sourced 4-cylinder, although not officially confirmed, is in the works to be fitted into the Cayman and Boxster according to insiders.

The move will allow Porsche to reduce fuel-consumption and CO2 emissions of its lineup to allow it to better meet strict emissions requirements from the European and U.S. government.

“Clearly there is a trend to downsizing,” board member Klaus Berning said at a recent Panamera launch. ”We have to do everything possible within the brand limits to lower CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions. [A four-cylinder] brings a lot of efficiency, so I will not exclude that, but if you ask me did we already decide one, no.”

Klaus went on to say, “Never say never.”

- By: Mo Eladawy

Source: Drive

 By: Richard Meaden

Pity the poor Porsche 911. Wounded by challenges from brands as diverse as Aston Martin and Nissan it now faces the sternest test of all: that from its own flesh and blood. Richard Meaden drives the revamped Cayman S.

Conspiracy theories, don’t you just love ‘em? You know, like the one about Porsche deliberately hobbling the Cayman by not fitting it with a limited-slip differential, just to protect the 911 from getting a kicking.

Trouble is, it would have been much easier to laugh at the preposterousness of such paranoia, were it not for the fact that in a dark moment even the most diehard 911 fundamentalist would confess to thinking there was more than a grain of truth to the speculation.

Well now Porsche put an end to the conjecture by offering a new revised, revamped and reinvigorated Cayman and Cayman S with an optional limited-slip differential. Unfortunately, Porsche also chose to launch the car in southern Spain, on a route heavily frequented by articulated lorries and largely covered in this layer of crud.

Foul Play? I’ll leave you to decide…

Click here to read more.

First Drive: 2009 Porsche Cayman S:

• •  2.5L 6-cylinder develops 255-hp in Boxster and 265-hp in Cayman.
• •  3.4L 6-cylinder makes 310-hp in Boxster S and 320-hp in Cayman S.
• •  2009 Boxster and Cayman models offered with 7-speed dual-clutch PDK.

We just saw the 2009 Porsche Cayman and Boxster at the 2008 LA Auto Show less then a month ago. Porsche today announced that pricing on both 2009 models has gone up by almost $2,000. The 2009 Porsche Boxster starts at $47,550 while the 2009 Porsche Cayman starts at $51,250.

Throw the “S” on the back of each model (and of course more power under the hood) and the price jumps up by $10,000. If you don’t know how to drive a manual, Porsche will offer you its new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic PDK transmission for an additional $3,420.

If you want a navigation system get ready to drop $3,110 and another $695 for Bluetooth hands-free. Universal audio interface (iPod, USB, AUX) will go for $440; XM Satellite Radio will carry a price tag of $750; adaptive bi-xenon lights will cost you $1,560; mechanical locking rear differential will run you $950; Sport Chrono Package with a manual transmission or with the PDK will cost $960 or $1,320 respectively; a heated steering wheel can be added for $90; and heated seats and ventilated seats will sell for $500 and $800 respectively.

Click here to see live images of the 2009 Porsche Cayman and Boxster from the 2008 LA Auto Show.

Follow the jump for the high-res image galleries (we’ve updated both galleries with new images).

2009 Porsche Boxster and 2009 Porsche Cayman:

2009 Porsche Cayman:

2009 Porsche Boxster:

• •  2009 Porsche Boxster and 2009 Porsche Cayman get mild facelift.
• •  All 2009 Boxster and Cayman models offered with 7-speed dual-clutch PDK.
• •  2.5L 6-cylinder develops 255-hp in Boxster and 265-hp in Cayman.
• •  3.4L makes 310-hp in Boxster S and 320-hp in Cayman S.

Here they are – brand and new and supposedly ‘redesigned,’ the 2009 Porsche Boxster and the 2009 Porsche Cayman. So what else is new besides the facelift and an upgraded interior? All 2009 Boxster and 2009 Cayman models are offered with Porsche’s new 7-speed double-clutch gearbox PorscheDoppelkupplung (PDK). As you know, Porsche PDK technology allows for better fuel-economy and quicker shifts.

Both models will go on sale in the U.S. starting March of next year. Pricing for the 2009 Porsche Boxster will start at $45,800 for the base model and $55,700 for the Boxster S. The 2009 Porsche Cayman will start at $49,400 while the Cayman S will go for $59,100.

2009 Porsche Boxster S – Live from 2008 LA Auto Show:

2009 Porsche Cayman S – Live from 2008 LA Auto Show:

2009 Porsche Cayman S:

2009 Porsche Boxster S:

Press Release:

World Debut of New, More Powerful 2009 Porsche Boxster and Cayman Models in Los Angeles

For the first time at a U.S. auto show, Porsche brings its original, 60-year- old sports car, Porsche No. 1, and 550 Spyder

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19 /PRNewswire/ — Marking a worldwide premiere, Porsche today pulled the wraps off its new-generation 2009 Boxster and Cayman models at a press conference at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. Reminding everyone of the long historical roots of these modern cars, the German sports car maker also displayed the first car to don the Porsche name, affectionately known as Porsche No. 1, as well as the company’s first-ever race car, the 550 Spyder, which is on loan from the collection of Jerry Seinfeld. Both are among the most historically significant sports cars of their eras and represent Porsche’s first mid-engine designs — the same engine configurations now thoroughly refined in both the new Boxster and Cayman.

The new Boxster — the famous two-seat roadster first launched by Porsche in 1997 — and its mid-engine coupe sibling, the Cayman — which debuted in 2006 — offer more powerful flat-six boxer engines, which are even more fuel efficient than the powerplants they replace. On the outside, the Boxster and Cayman also receive subtle, yet very distinct, refinements that update the classic sports car design of both automobiles individually. Both add new standard and optional features for the 2009 model year.

The new 2009 Boxster and Cayman models go on sale in the U.S. in March of next year. 2009 Boxster pricing in the U.S. starts at $45,800 for the base version, $55,700 for the Boxster S, $49,400 for the base Cayman and $59,100 for the Cayman S.

“Today is our first presentation of the new 2009 mid-engine sports cars, and here is the right place,” said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “We wanted to celebrate their worldwide premiere here in Los Angeles since it is, by far, the city with the highest population of Boxsters and Caymans anywhere.”

For the first time, the Boxster S and the Cayman S use Porsche’s new direct fuel injection (DFI) and all versions of these models can be ordered with the company’s innovative 7-speed double-clutch gearbox PorscheDoppelkupplung (PDK). PDK is a race-inspired technology that is essentially two transmissions in one: it combines the driving convenience of an automatic with the sporty and fuel efficient operation of manual gearshifts by employing two fully automated parallel clutches. It can be driven as a full automatic or it can be shifted manually via paddles on the steering wheel or through the shift knob. The result is more power with improved fuel efficiency, a development that helps Porsche meet today’s demands for reducing environmental impact, yet maintain the brand’s performance persona.

“Our mantra at the research and development is that every new model has to outperform its predecessor and does so by offering significant fuel savings,” said Wolfgang Durheimer, Board Member in Charge of Research and Development, Porsche AG. “Both Boxster and Cayman pass this test with flying colors: not

only are they noticeably quicker and more responsive, they are at the same time even more frugal than the cars they replace.”

The new base engine in these models is a 2.9 liter flat six cylinder that develops 255 hp in the Boxster and 265 hp in the Cayman, representing an increase in power of 10 hp and 20 hp, respectively, over the preceding models. The 3.4 liter power unit in the S versions, which benefits from Porsche’s Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), now delivers 310 hp in the Boxster S and 320 hp in the Cayman S.

The universally hailed mid-engine concept used in the new Boxster and Cayman models has a long history at Porsche; this heritage is on display in L.A. with the first Porsche from 1948, a one-of-a-kind, mid-engine two-seat sports car lovingly called Porsche No. 1, as well as a historic, mid-engine Porsche 550 Spyder, the first Porsche car specifically designed for racing. Company founder Dr. Ferdinand ‘Ferry’ Porsche developed and built the Porsche No. 1, or as it is officially known, the Type 356-001, in Gmund, Austria, after he searched and was unable to find the car of his dreams 60 years ago.

“Look at his (Ferry Porsche’s) first Porsche of 1948 and his quest for the pure sports car,” said Klaus Berning, Board Member in charge of Sales and Marketing, Porsche AG. “It is a simple, yet rather sophisticated design, and it is a blueprint for an idea that would decades later become the highly successful Boxster: its revolutionary mid-engine concept together with a functional, aerodynamic roadster design, lightweight and a small, highly efficient engine resulted in a sports car that was nimble, responsive and quick, and it rewarded its inventor with sheer driving pleasure — a rare quality in those days.”

Another extraordinary car on display is the Porsche 550 Spyder — a car that was introduced in 1953 at the Paris Motor Show and later became the mid- engine inspiration for the modern Boxster. The car began in 1951 as a small Porsche 356 Spyder that was created and raced by Walter Glockler; several years later, the factory decided to build such a car, making it the first Porsche designed specifically for use in auto racing.

The 550 became known as Spyder or RS, and was the first of Porsche’s formidable mid-engine race cars, giving Porsche its first overall win in a major sports car racing event, the 1956 Targa Florio. Several class wins at Le Mans 24-hour event, and wins throughout Europe helped the 550 become a legend in the motorsports world. With over 70 examples produced, the 550 RS Spyder marked the beginning of Porsche’s customer race car program that has grown to become a worldwide success.

This 1955 550 RS Spyder is on loan from the special collection of Jerry Seinfeld.