The powertrain may be derived from the Porsche 992.2 GTS in an effort to reduce development expenses. Porsche is developing combustion variants of its upcoming 718 series, which could feature the hybrid flat-six engine from the 911 GTS in its highest trims. The electric and hybrid 718 lineup is set to launch in stages starting in 2026. Recently, Porsche has been altering its strategy, shifting away from battery-electric vehicles and back to combustion engines for the next-generation 718 Cayman and Boxster, which were initially intended to be fully electric. This change may resonate with traditionalists, although it's important to note that the internal combustion options will only be available in the top-tier models. For enthusiasts who prefer gas-powered Porsches, this development is a positive sign. New reports suggest that these mid-engine models might receive a hybrid flat-six engine sourced from the 911. CEO Oliver Blume indicated that this shift was a response to a noticeable decline in demand for exclusive battery-electric vehicles. To keep development costs manageable, the combustion variations of the next 718 series will rely on components shared with the 911, which will also assist in meeting Europe's stringent emissions regulations. According to Autocar, the anticipated setup for the next Cayman GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS is the T-Hybrid powertrain from the 992.2 GTS. This system combines a twin-turbo 3.6-liter flat-six engine with a single electric motor, delivering a total output of 532 hp (397 kW / 540 PS) and 449 lb-ft (609 Nm) of torque. This configuration presents a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six in the current Cayman GT4 RS, which produces 495 hp (368 kW / 500 PS) and 331 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. The T-Hybrid unit was selected for its compact design, measuring 110 mm (4.3 inches) shorter than the non-electrified flat-six engine in the standard 911 Carrera. While retaining their signature mid-engine layout for optimal handling balance, the 718 models will face a challenge. The hybrid powertrain is presently available only with the eight-speed PDK transmission. Unless Porsche engineers can modify the system for a manual gearbox—something that seems improbable due to size and hybrid integration concerns—this could signify the unofficial end of manual transmissions for the 718 lineup. For a brand known for driver engagement, this could disappoint purists, despite the availability of combustion engine options in the upper trims. Although the hybrid sports cars will boast ample power, they are expected to be slower than the fully electric 718 models in straight-line performance. On the track, however, the ICE variants may regain their advantage due to lighter weight, a more responsive chassis, and focused aerodynamics. Spy photographers have caught numerous camouflaged prototypes of the next 718 series during testing, although all were equipped with electric powertrains. Fortunately, independent CGI artist Antonie Brigot has produced renderings of a new ICE-powered Cayman GT4, showcasing Porsche’s latest design language and providing visuals for this report. The new generation of the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman is expected to launch in 2026, following delays from R&D challenges. The fully electric versions will debut first, while the hybrid successors to the GT4 RS and Spyder RS will follow later in the model cycle. This staggered rollout should provide Porsche engineers ample time to adapt the EV platform for the flat-six hybrid, ensuring it meets the brand’s high standards.

      The Barbour wax jacket is not merely a wet-weather essential; it's an emblem of British culture, comparable to pie and mash, cherished by everyone from the royal family to trendy festival-goers at Glastonbury. Associated with the upper-class English countryside, it represents heritage and tradition, and over time, its allure has grown, establishing it as an unexpected fashion icon. Barbour’s long-standing connection with waxed cotton began in 1894 when Scotsman John Barbour launched a shop in Newcastle’s South Shields Market Place, selling functional and durable oilskins for hunting and fishing. Initially designed for utility, the jackets included pockets for cartridges, had a "thorn-proof" wax coating for navigating through brambles, and even featured large game pockets suitable for carrying an entire pheasant.

      In 1972, Dame Margaret Barbour took over the family business, marking the beginning of Barbour’s remarkable era. Among its most renowned advocates was Princess Diana, who, decked out in her Barbour jacket and pearls, contributed to making the garment a staple of the Sloane Ranger fashion. Over time, these jackets develop a distinctive shabby-chic look, and traditionally, having a well-loved Barbour carries a certain prestige. The late Queen Elizabeth II famously wore the Beaufort style for more than 25 years around her Balmoral estate and chose to have it re-waxed rather than replace it. King Charles III has also been frequently seen wearing a Barbour jacket at various outdoor events, while Catherine, Princess of Wales, is a regular enthusiast of the brand. Her most worn style is the Barbour Defence Wax Jacket, alongside the Barbour X Alexa Chung Edith Jacket in beige.

      Beyond its association with affluence, the Barbour look gained popularity through the Glastonbury Festival, often combined with Hunter wellies and sequin minidresses, keeping mud-covered festival attendees warm, dry, and stylish. Noteworthy appearances include Lily Allen, who performed on the Pyramid Stage in 2007 wearing an oversized black Barbour and a vintage pink dress while holding a can of Strongbow, and Alexa Chung, whose longstanding affinity for Barbour jackets resulted in a series of successful collaborations that began in 2013.

      Currently, Barbour averages six to seven collaborations annually, with successful partnerships including luxury brand Erdem, streetwear icon Supreme, and trendy label Ganni. Most recently, Barbour has collaborated with Brazilian brand Farm Rio, known for its vibrant prints, while this season will introduce Paul Smith Loves Barbour, merging two quintessentially British fashion houses. This playful collaboration is inspired by livestock competitions and farm shows, incorporating unconventional shades of waxed cotton, patchwork designs, and a recurring Friesian cow motif.

      How to Differentiate Your Beaufort from Your Beadnell

      Assuming there's only one type of Barbour wax jacket? Think again! There are actually three original styles: the Bedale, the Beaufort, and the Border, all designed by Dame Margaret Barbour, which solidified the brand's reputation in the 1980s. The range has since expanded to include modern staples like the Beadnell and the Spey. Each is a best-seller, weather-proof, and suitable for year-round wear, with subtle distinctions among them. The brand identifies four core elements that define every Barbour wax jacket:

      1. Waxed cotton for durability and protection

      2. A corduroy collar

      3. Heritage tartan lining

      4. Ring pull and press studs

      The Original Barbour Jackets:

      1. **The Bedale**: Launched in 1980 and named after a rural market town in North Yorkshire, the Bedale Jacket was crafted by Dame Margaret Barbour. Made from medium-weight 6oz thorn-proof wax cotton, it was originally intended for the equestrian market, with its shorter length ideal for riding.

      2. **The Beaufort**: Originating in 1983, the Beaufort draws inspiration from French shooting jackets, boasting a large game pocket on the back. It is longer than the Bedale but shorter than the Border. Vintage Beauforts feature the Dress Gordon tartan lining (white, navy, and bottle green), while contemporary versions showcase the Classic Barbour tartan, originating from the Barbour family's home county of Ayrshire, designed in shades of brown and gold to complement the wax cotton.

      3. **The Border**: Designed as "the perfect all-weather jacket for taller gentlemen or those looking to wear it over a suit," this original menswear style is longer, roomier, and features elongated sleeves. It was named after the land border between Scotland and England that founder John Barbour crossed in 1870 upon arriving in North East England, where Barbour remains today.

      The New Barbour Jackets:

      1. **The Beadnell**: A contemporary take on the classic Bedale, introduced in 2010, the Beadnell is made from the same