Porsche 718 S/GTS 2.5 Tuning Guide
Porsche 718 S/GTS Modification Guide
The Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman are exceptional sports cars in their own right, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and style. For owners of the 718 S or GTS models, the urge to further enhance their driving experience is common. Whether you want to improve the sound, handling, braking performance, or aesthetics, there are a range of modifications available to take your 718 to the next level. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the most popular modifications that can be made to these already capable machines.
Check out our range of performance parts available for your 718 S/GTS here!
Exhaust System
One of the first modifications many 718 S/GTS owners consider is an upgraded exhaust system. The stock exhaust offers a refined sound, but it may lack the aggressive tone that many enthusiasts desire. Replacing the factory exhaust can drastically alter the car’s sound, making it louder and more purposeful.
Popular choices for exhaust modifications include sports exhausts or valved exhaust systems. A sports exhaust system typically provides a deeper, more aggressive note, while a valved system allows you to adjust the sound depending on your driving preference.
Upgrading the exhaust can also provide a slight increase in horsepower, though the primary benefit is in the enhanced exhaust note. For a more dramatic sound, pairing an exhaust modification with a sports air filter can further improve airflow, resulting in a more dynamic driving experience.
Check out our exhaust options for your 718 here!
Suspension Upgrades
The 718 S and GTS models already offer impressive handling, but there’s always room for improvement when it comes to suspension. If you want a more responsive feel, better cornering, or the ability to adjust ride height, a suspension modification is a good place to start.
Lowering springs are a popular first step. They provide a more aggressive stance by lowering the car’s ride height, which can also enhance handling by lowering the centre of gravity. If you’re looking for more adjustability, coilover suspension kits offer a wider range of height and damping adjustments. These kits allow owners to fine-tune the suspension setup to their specific needs, whether it’s for improved track performance or a better daily driving experience.
Additionally, anti-roll bars or sway bars can be added to improve the car’s balance in tight corners, reducing body roll and enhancing overall handling performance. For owners looking for a true performance upgrade, a set of adjustable dampers can offer precision control over the car’s ride quality and handling characteristics.
You can find a full list of suspension upgrades here
Brakes
The stock braking system on the 718 S and GTS is already strong, but if you plan on pushing your car on track days or spirited driving, upgrading the braking system can offer improved stopping power and fade resistance.
Performance brake pads are one of the easiest and most affordable upgrades. These pads provide better heat management, reducing the likelihood of brake fade under heavy use. For more serious enthusiasts, upgrading to carbon-ceramic composite (PCCB) brakes can offer significantly improved performance, though they come at a premium price.
For owners looking for a balance between track and street use, upgrading to slotted or drilled rotors can improve braking performance by allowing better heat dissipation and reducing the chance of brake fade. Pairing these with high-performance brake fluid will also help maintain braking consistency during high-stress driving conditions.
Aesthetic Modifications
While the 718 S and GTS are already stylish, there are several aesthetic modifications that can further personalise the car to your liking.
Wheels are one of the most common aesthetic upgrades. Swapping out the factory rims for a set of lightweight forged wheels not only enhances the look of the car but can also reduce unsprung weight, improving performance. Brands like BBS, OZ Racing, and HRE offer high-quality wheels that are designed to match the 718’s performance capabilities.
Body kits are another option for those who want to make a statement. Front lips, rear spoilers, and side skirts can add a more aggressive and track-inspired look to the car. For those interested in a more understated approach, carbon fibre accents such as mirror caps, rear diffusers, or side vents can enhance the car's appearance while reducing weight.
If you’re looking to improve the car’s lighting, LED headlights or dynamic indicators are popular upgrades that not only enhance the look of the car but can also improve visibility and safety.
You can find a list of our exterior aesthetic modifications here
Tuning and Performance Chips
For those looking to increase horsepower, a performance chip or ECU remap can help unleash more power from the engine. The 718 S and GTS come with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that responds well to tuning. A remap or ECU flash can increase engine output, improve throttle response, and make the car feel more lively.
In addition to the ECU remap, many owners opt for an intake upgrade. A performance intake system can improve airflow into the engine, which can increase efficiency and power, especially when paired with other modifications like a sports exhaust.
Conclusion
The Porsche 718 S and GTS models are exceptional sports cars straight from the factory, but for those looking to personalise their driving experience, there’s a wide range of modifications available. Whether it’s improving the sound with an upgraded exhaust, enhancing handling with suspension upgrades, boosting stopping power with better brakes, or fine-tuning the appearance, there are many ways to make your 718 even more of a driver’s car. As with any modification, it’s important to balance performance, aesthetics, and practicality to ensure the upgrades complement the car’s overall design and driving characteristics.
By carefully selecting the right modifications, owners of the Porsche 718 S and GTS models can create a car that is truly tailored to their driving preferences and style.