2012 Porsche Cayman: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Porsche Cayman is the arrival of the lighter, track-focused Cayman R. A limited-run Cayman S Black Edition also joins the range, while the regular Cayman and Cayman S see very little change.
About the 2012 Porsche Cayman
987.2 facelift generation (2009-2012), final U.S. model year before the 981 redesign; there was no separate U.S. 2013 Cayman model year.
Porsche positions the Cayman as a compact mid-engine sports coupe built around balance, response, and driver connection. The fixed-roof body gives it a more planted coupe feel than the Boxster, while the mid-engine layout is the key differentiator: quick turn-in, strong balance in corners, and a very direct feel from the chassis. It also stands out for being more usable day to day than many sports cars, thanks to front and rear cargo areas and a cabin that is focused but not stripped bare in regular trims.
The 2012 range stretches from the 265-hp base Cayman to the 320-hp Cayman S, with the new 330-hp Cayman R serving as the lightest and sharpest version. The limited S Black Edition also has 330 hp, but pairs it with black-themed trim, leather, navigation, Bose audio, and Bluetooth rather than the R’s stripped-down focus.
What changed, by category
2012 Porsche Cayman specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter | 6-Cyl, 2.9 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 320 hp | 265 hp | 330 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.5 cu-ft | 14.5 cu-ft | 14.5 cu-ft | 14.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| AM/FM Radio | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Porsche Cayman?
The biggest change is the new Cayman R. It has 330 hp, less weight, a suspension lowered by 20 mm, a locking rear differential, lightweight 19-inch wheels, aluminum doors, and fixed-back sport seats.
How is the 2012 Cayman R different from the Cayman S Black Edition?
The Cayman R is the more focused performance version, with weight-saving parts, lowered suspension, a locking rear differential, and fixed-back sport seats. The S Black Edition also has 330 hp, but emphasizes exclusivity and comfort with black-themed trim, leather, navigation, Bose audio, and Bluetooth.
Did the regular 2012 Cayman and Cayman S change much?
No, the regular Cayman and Cayman S changed very little for 2012. Their engines and transmissions carry over, although a power-adjustable driver’s seat becomes standard across the lineup.
Is the 2012 Porsche Cayman a full redesign?
No, the 2012 Cayman is not a full redesign. It is the final U.S. model year of the 987-generation Cayman, with the new R and S Black Edition expanding the existing lineup.
Was there a 2013 Porsche Cayman in the U.S.?
No, Porsche did not offer a separate 2013 Cayman model year in the U.S. The 2012 model closed out the 987 generation before the redesigned Cayman arrived for 2014.