2009 Porsche Cayman: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Porsche Cayman is a major mid-cycle refresh led by new, stronger flat-six engines. Porsche also replaces the old automatic with a 7-speed PDK, retunes the chassis, updates the cabin, and lightly revises the styling.
About the 2009 Porsche Cayman
987 generation, major mid-cycle refresh year (987.2, first year of the update)
The 2009 Cayman is Porsche’s compact mid-engine coupe for drivers who want the brand’s core sports-car feel in a smaller, more practical package than a 911. Porsche framed the Cayman around balance, quick responses, and driving purity rather than luxury. Its big differentiators are the mid-engine layout, precise handling, strong flat-six sound, and unusual everyday usefulness for a sports coupe thanks to cargo space at both ends.
The base Cayman is the simpler, driving-focused version, with a 265-hp 2.9-liter engine, 17-inch wheels, and front and rear cargo areas. The Cayman S turns up the performance with a 320-hp 3.4-liter engine, direct fuel injection, 18-inch wheels, larger brakes, and red brake calipers. Both are two-seat, rear-wheel-drive coupes with the engine mounted behind the seats for balanced handling.
What changed, by category
2009 Porsche Cayman specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter | 6-Cyl, 2.9 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 340 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.9 cu-ft | 9.9 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2009 Porsche Cayman a redesigned model?
No. The 2009 Cayman is a major mid-cycle update of the 987 generation rather than a complete redesign. This refreshed version is commonly known as the 987.2.
What engines are in the 2009 Porsche Cayman?
The 2009 base Cayman has a 265-hp 2.9-liter flat-six, while the Cayman S has a 320-hp 3.4-liter flat-six with direct fuel injection. Both engines are mounted behind the seats and drive the rear wheels.
Does the 2009 Porsche Cayman have the PDK automatic?
Yes. For 2009, the optional 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic replaces the older Tiptronic automatic. PDK changes gears through two computer-controlled clutches rather than a traditional automatic setup.
How is the 2009 Cayman different from the 2008 Cayman?
The 2009 Cayman has stronger engines, a new 7-speed PDK automatic, revised suspension and brakes, lightly updated front and rear styling, standard LED taillights, and an updated cabin with a newer touchscreen communication system when equipped.
What is the difference between the 2009 Cayman and Cayman S?
The Cayman S is the more performance-focused version. It has a 320-hp 3.4-liter engine, direct fuel injection, 18-inch wheels, larger brakes, and red brake calipers, while the base Cayman uses a 265-hp 2.9-liter engine and 17-inch wheels.