Porsche Cayman S

We drove one of the final development mules in the South African desert in issue 864, and were impressed. But the finished article is ready and Europe's sweeping roads await... Is the car as good as we first thought?

Priced at ΂£43,930, the Cayman S goes up against BMW's Z4 Coupé and Mercedes' SLK - yet with its legendary Porsche badge, the newcomer has the edge on its rivals even before it turns a wheel. Seeing the Cayman for the first time, you are instantly impressed by its squat shape. With dimensions similar to a Boxster's, a steeply sloping hatchback, flared rear end and 911-derived nose, the design is purposeful and ath- letic. Only the fussy foglights and air vents detract from the look.

Underneath the skin lies a newly developed mid-mounted 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine. Drive goes to the rear wheels via the same precise six-speed gearbox as in the Boxster S, except with a shorter shift for quicker changes.

With 295bhp and 340Nm of torque, the Cayman accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 171mph. Featuring Porsche's Vario-Cam Plus system, which offers variable valve timing and was previously available only on the 911, it has huge power reserves at any speed. Above 4,000rpm, though, the newcomer gives supercar levels of response, accompanied by a superb engine note - a hard-edged metallic growl that's as exciting to listen to as its bigger brother's.

On our test route's snaking roads, the Cayman's handling was just as impressive. With lightweight aluminium suspension and a stiffer bodyshell than the Boxster's, it is even more agile, the nose turning into corners instantly. There's huge grip, too, and with a tuned exhaust note and wind noise kept as low as possible, you feel just as connec-ted as you would in an open-top car.

Despite massive 18-inch alloys, the Cayman rides fluently - particularly with the optional Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system. This electronically stiffens the suspension in Sport mode, while Normal mode gives a more comfort-oriented setting. Although a two-seater, the Cayman is actually quite practical. The cabin seems cosy, yet there's plenty of room for driver and passenger. Stowage is good, with the hatchback opening to reveal a 260-litre load area. And there's a handy luggage net behind the seats, plus a 150-litre boot at the front.

Quality is easily up to 911 levels, with a solid dash and satisfying thunk as you close the doors. The sports seats are also very comfortable, and the driving position is excellent courtesy of the reach/rake-adjustable wheel.

On sale in November, expect Cayman waiting lists to stretch into 2007 and residuals to be rock solid. If you're lucky enough to have a place in the queue, you can look forward to owning one of the best sports cars ever.