For the 2021 model year, one substantial change was in store for upper-end variants of the Porsche 718 models. It represents cheering news for the performance-minded driver, and a very good decision from Porsche leadership.

The Porsche seven-speed PDK gearbox will be an option on the 4L, six-cylinder outfitted 718 GTS 4.0, 718 Cayman GT4, and 718 Spyder come next year. The super-responsive paddle-shifter is a fundamental asset to the drivetrain of the upper-tier Porsche lineup, providing smooth transitions in the blink of an eye, and the option of manual gear selection. The PDK can reduce 0-62 times by about half a second.

The trio will continue to be available with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. In addition to the PDK option, the models may also be optioned with the Porsche Sport Chrono package, PASM adaptive suspension, and sport exhaust system.

The 2021 six-cylinder 718 models are expected to be in dealerships in the first quarter of next year. Prices for six-speed manual gearbox versions start at $86K. The PDK option adds about $4K to the sticker price.