First details of Porsche's all-new 2013 Cayman are released (w/VIDEO)

The all-new Type 981 Cayman premiered this evening at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, marking the third generation of Porsche’s 2-seater sports car that was first launched in 2006.

The 2.7-litre engine in the entry-level Cayman now delivers 271bhp and 290 Nm of torque (10bhp more than the Boxster), while the Cayman S offers 320bhp and 370 Nm of torque (+10bhp up on the Boxster S and a 5bhp increase on its predecessor).

The new Cayman is up to 30 kg lighter and consumes up to 15 per cent less fuel than the previous model.

Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph is quoted as 5.7 seconds for the Cayman and 5.0 seconds for the Cayman S. Both new models have a SPORT mode fitted as standard, delivering sharpened responses at the push of a button.

Compared with its predecessor, the new Cayman carries a longer wheelbase and a wider front track, enhancing poise and balance. The new lines of the body are designed with aerodynamics in mind, whilst the tapered headlights hark back to historic Porsche’s such as the 904 GTS and legendary 917K.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is available on the Cayman for the first time, as well as a specially developed Burmester sound system. Another new feature on the Cayman is keyless Entry & Drive system, which is available as an option.

The heaviest of the cars’ components have been mounted lower and positioned closer to the centre of the chassis. This means a low centre of gravity and low polar moment of inertia translating into a more immersive driving experience.

As well as exterior and engine developments, the new Cayman interior has been redesigned. The focus is on driver comfort and performance, delivering a sense proportion and space. The ergonomically designed centre console now positions the gear lever close to the steering wheel as in the latest Boxster cabin.

The new Cayman will be on sale from 16 March 2013, priced at £39,694.00 for the Cayman and £48,783.00 for Cayman S. This compares with the outgoing Cayman R, which offered 5bhp more than the new Cayman S, but at a price almost £3,000 higher (£51,773.00).

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