First Drive: Porsche’s 718 Spyder RS is a thrill-seeking drop-top
The new Grandland has hit the road with more premium features than before, but what else does it have to offer? Jack Evans finds out.
What is it?
But it also represents a range-topper that celebrates all things petrol-powered before the Boxster turns electric-only for its next generation. Well, that’s believed to be the plan for now, at least.
What’s new?
But it does contribute to some weight savings, with the entire roof setup weighing 18.3kg – 16.5kg less than the roof system in the standard 718 Boxster.
What’s under the bonnet?
As with other RS models, the Spyder gains a more focused chassis setup than the ‘standard’ model, while all manner of lightweight Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) parts help to keep this car’s weight as low as possible.
What’s it like to drive?
It’s all centred on the engine, of course, which delivers its performance in raucous fashion with an exhaust note which never fails to create a smile. However, it’s all backed up with incredibly taut body control and communicative steering. With the roof down, it’s an all-encompassing driving experience.
How does it look?
Our test car came in a rather eye-catching yellow colour which only highlighted this car more. Enlarged front air intakes and a compact rear spoiler add to the go-faster features, but it’s executed brilliantly – it looks just as special as it feels to drive.
What’s it like inside?
Naturally, you don’t get a car like the RS Spyder for outright practicality, but with a compact ‘frunk’ under the bonnet it’s a little more practical than you might think. At 125 litres, it’s barely bigger than a city car’s boot, mind you.
What’s the spec like?
The main infotainment screen is quite small by the standards set by other cars on sale today and though you do get Apple CarPlay, it’s only via a wired connection. That said, it provides all your really need and, helpfully, there are lots of physical controls to help with adjusting certain features when you’re on the move. Reminding us of how things have changed, the Spyder also has a beautiful analogue rev counter in the middle of the instrument binnacle – it’s a welcome hark back to how Porsche used to do it before replacing this with a screen-based system on recent models.
Verdict
The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is easily one of the most invigorating, exciting and downright involving cars that the company has produced. Backed by a soundtrack that most Hollywood studios would be proud to produce, the Spyder RS feels like a car showcasing the best of what Porsche can do.
While the Spyder might be a little too uncompromising for day-to-day driving, if you’re after a car that’ll deliver an incredible experience time and time again, look no further.
