Spy shots：2012 Porsche Cayman test-mule

Porsche’s facelifted Cayman and Boxster range has just been on sale for several months, but now the company is now quite far into preparing the next-generation of the platform, which is due to spawn a brand new Cayman and Boxster by late 2011 or early 2012.

The spy photos reveal a mule that appears to be wider and has beefier wheel arches than the current model, with bolt-on guard extensions pointing to a wider track than the 2010 car. That wider track means the next-gen Cayman and Boxster models may be larger and carrying more performance.

The current Cayman comes with the optional new PDK dual-clutch transmission which provides very smooth shifting in traffic conditions and sporty changes when pushed to respond quicker. Fuel consumption is said to be improved despite power and torque increases. The next-gen Cayman will presumably use the PDK system as well.

It’s still too early to determine what changes Porsche has in store for the engine lineup, but expect to see the familiar flat-six engine range carry over with only minimal updates – possibly for emissions and economy standards.

However, a rumor alleging that Porsche insiders are talking about a lightweight, turbocharged four-cylinder platform for the next-gen Boxster recently began making the rounds. Such a design premise might offer more room to launch a detuned entry-level Carrera also aimed at improving emissions ratings. Emissions of the current six-cylinder Boxster and Cayman, the most efficient in Porsche's line, emit about 222g/km of CO2 - about 100g/km more than the projected 2015 limits.

Production will begin in only a few years' time at Magna Steyr's factory in Austria. Dealers will receive their first batches of Boxster and Cayman stock in 2012.