Porsche Cayman, Jaguar XK8, Chevrolet Corvette Z06

With photos that have just been released, this is your first opportunity to check out how the car will look in your friendly Porsche dealer's showroom. Visually, the Cayman is a lean, taut, compact car that recaptures the spirit of the iconic 2.7-liter 911 Carrera RS from 1973. Most of the sheet metal is all-new, giving the car an identity distinct from both the Boxster and the 911. Much of the interior will be shared with the Boxster, although the large rear hatch means the Cayman should have more luggage capacity.

This S version, which will make its debut at the Frankfurt show later this year, is the first of a range of Cayman models. Engineers at Porsche's Weissach R&D center reportedly are putting the finishing touches on a Clubsport version that will feature more power and lower weight, courtesy of a stripped-down interior. With its flat-six engine mounted between the axles and low in the chassis, the Cayman Clubsport promises to be the best-handing Porsche road car ever.