Porsche stirred significant conversation in 2022 when it announced plans to transition the iconic 718 series, including the Boxster and Cayman, to fully electric models, phasing out their traditional gasoline counterparts. However, as development continues on the electric versions, the renowned German sports car manufacturer has reassessed its strategy, realizing that completely eliminating the combustion engine could be detrimental. This decision to retain gas-powered variants is exciting news for car enthusiasts everywhere.
The current generation of the Porsche 718 is set to conclude next month with its final production run. Yet, a new generation is on the horizon, and Porsche has confirmed that it will still feature a gas engine positioned behind the seats. In its recent “strategic realignment,” the automaker disclosed that both the Boxster and Cayman will continue to offer internal combustion engine (ICE) options. However, there’s an intriguing twist: only the high-performance versions, likely to be RS-badged or similar, will maintain the combustion engine.
This shift in strategy could also lead to a reversal of the norm where electric vehicles (EVs) are traditionally more expensive than their ICE equivalents. The upcoming flagship 718 might see the gas version priced higher than the electric model, which would be an unexpected turn in the market.
Questions have arisen regarding whether the next-generation Boxster and Cayman with combustion engines will share a platform with the more affordable electric versions. If this is the case, it would necessitate significant re-engineering, as the new 718 was originally designed to be electric-only. Alternatively, Porsche might opt to update the existing MMB hardware, which was introduced in 2016 for the 982 series. A completely new platform seems unlikely, especially considering the financial implications of such an endeavor in a niche market.
Regardless of the platform choice, it’s reassuring to see Porsche backtrack on its initial plans and commit to keeping the gas-powered Boxster and Cayman alive for the foreseeable future. Importantly, these will not be hybrids; they will offer a pure ICE experience. However, there will be a notable gap between generations, as the next conventional 718 is not expected to debut until near the end of the decade.
In addition to the 718 series, Porsche has reiterated its commitment to introducing a new gas crossover, complete with a plug-in hybrid option, slated for 2028 to replace the first-generation Macan. The all-electric Cayenne is also in development, while the Taycan will remain part of the lineup. Meanwhile, the much-anticipated three-row “Prestige” SUV, which was originally intended as an EV-only model, will now include both ICE and PHEV versions, responding to evolving market conditions. Interestingly, the combustion-powered variants are set to launch ahead of their electric counterparts.
As for the legendary Porsche 911, enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief. The rear-engine icon will not transition to a fully electric model this decade, a change that most fans would not welcome. Nevertheless, the expansion of hybrid options is likely, particularly beyond the GTS and Turbo S models. The ICE versions of the Cayenne and Panamera are expected to remain in production well into the 2030s, with Porsche confirming the continued presence of the V-8 engine.
One noteworthy absence from Porsche's roadmap is the anticipated supercar. The company has clarified that it never guaranteed the development of the Mission X. With the brand pulling back from exclusively EV launches in response to lukewarm demand, introducing an all-electric flagship could prove to be a risky venture.
In conclusion, Porsche's recent decisions reflect a broader understanding of market demands and consumer preferences, ensuring that the essence of their performance-oriented legacy remains intact while navigating the evolving automotive landscape.
