In 2006, Porsche decided to give the popular two-seat Boxster convertible a hard-top brother, giving birth to the Cayman as well as the most affordable Porsche coupe on the market.

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Usually auto makers create the coupe first and then slice off the roof for a convertible. But it was the other way around this time.

The styling is, of course, reminiscent of the Boxster, sharing many of its parts, however, comparisons can also be drawn to the iconic 911 with its sloping fastback-style rear and flaring rear fenders.

The car received a significant update in 2009. Offering 20 horsepower more than its predecessor, the entry-level Cayman cranks out 265 horses thanks to a revised 2.9-liter powerplant.

The restyled coupe has new halogen headlights with integrated direction indicators, reminiscent of the lights on the discontinued Carrera GT supercar. The new LED taillights have been reshaped, tapering out and integrated elegantly to the modified rear end. The front fascia and rear skirt have been restyled to keep the look fresh.

First seen on the redesigned 911 range, the new PDK dual-clutch automated manual gearbox offers a significant boost in fuel efficiency, not to mention faster shift times that equal quicker acceleration. Overall fuel economy for the base model is 26.4 mpg -- an 11 percent improvement.

A new suspension system promises better driving dynamics and enhanced comfort, depending on driving conditions. A modified valve control map for the steering system serves to reduce steering forces, giving the Cayman even more agile steering behaviour.

Like the Boxster, the Cayman has dual trunks: one in the back and one in the front. The back is accessed via a hatch that includes the rear window, allowing it to swallow 9.2 cubic feet of stuff, which is impressive for a sports car. This is bigger than the Boxster because the Cayman doesn't have a folding roof to store. The front trunk accommodates a further 4.9 cubic feet.

The Cayman features a biplane spoiler in its rear that automatically extends to ensure down force at high speeds. Its svelte drag coefficient is equivalent to that of the Boxster, at 0.29.

The car features the latest generation of PSM Porsche Stability Management now offering two new functions: Brake Pre-Loading and the Brake Assistant. Whenever the driver lets go of the gas pedal very quickly -- which is typical of an upcoming emergency braking manoeuvre -- the PSM hydraulic control unit builds up an appropriate level of pressure on the wheel brakes before the driver even presses down the brake pedal, moving the brake pads slightly towards the discs for immediate action. This significantly improves brake response and shortens stopping distances accordingly.

Options include Porsche Active Suspension Management, a Sport Chrono Package, bi-xenon headlamps, parking-assist sensors and Bose surround-sound audio system. A wiper for the rear window is even an option, perhaps because some customers may feel it ruins the Cayman's sweeping roof line.

The Cayman comes standard with the new CDR-30 CD radio boasting a five-inch monochromatic display and the ability to play MP3 CDs. New PCM Porsche Communication Management available as an option complete with hard disc navigation serves as the central control unit for all audio, communication and navigation features.