Porsche 718 returns to the flat-six alongside electric versions

Porsche’s electrification plans are not progressing as anticipated. Demand for fully electric models is falling, and the Taycan is among the biggest casualties, with sales failing to meet expectations.

Although it remains committed to electrification plans for the future, the Stuttgart marque has acknowledged a “strategic realignment” that will involve retaining models fitted with combustion engines.

Porsche 718 benefits from the strategic realignment

The 718 is one of the beneficiaries of this strategic restructuring. Plans for the next generation of the mid-engined sports car had already been set out and appeared “simple”: make it fully electric. That will no longer be the case.

718 returns to the flat-six

Porsche is still planning to electrify the 718 range, but it has revised its script for the coming years: the next-generation 718 Cayman and Boxster will continue to be petrol-powered alongside electric versions. The decision reverses the previous plans announced in 2022.

The new development concerns the powertrain, which, according to Autocar, is expected to be borrowed from the new Porsche 911. The current 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine fitted to today’s Cayman and Boxster models will not comply with the Euro 7 emissions regulations due to take effect at the end of 2026.

Porsche 718 to adopt 911 GTS T-Hybrid power

For that reason, the next-generation Porsche 718 is expected to adopt the T-Hybrid system introduced in the 911 GTS. It uses a flat-six engine, now assisted by both a turbocharger and an electric motor.

With this arrangement, Porsche returns to the formula behind the Boxster’s original success: a less powerful engine derived from the 911, fitted to a more affordable package with a more dynamically balanced set-up.

The unanswered question is how the Stuttgart brand will homologate the new combustion-powered 718 beyond 2030, when even stricter European rules are expected to come into force.

Regardless, Porsche appears determined to keep the petrol 718 alive. The most plausible route will therefore be a full model update designed to bring it into line with the new legislation.