2023 Spy shots of the Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder RS: a hardcore convertible with around 500 hp.

The Porsche 718 Cayman spawned the hardcore GT4 RS variant for the 2022 model year.

Our spy shots captured a prototype of the hardcore 718 Boxster featuring a unique spider body. This should appear early next year as the new 718 Boxster Spyder RS, or something close to it.

With the distinctive rear hump behind the almost certainly minimalist cabin, it is easy to tell that this car is a spider version of the Boxster. The convertible roof seen here is also unique to the spider body style and was chosen for its streamlined design and light weight. This design is a tribute to the 718 Spyder of the 1960s.

The last Boxster Spyder is already a great car. It would be nearly impossible to top it, but Porsche would attempt to do so by slightly detuning the 4.0-liter, redline 9,000-rpm flat-six found in the 911 GT3, bringing the Boxster Spyder RS's power to 493 hp. This engine is also found in the Cayman GT4 RS.

In the GT4 RS, this engine is paired exclusively with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, but with any luck, a manual transmission will be offered as an option in the Spyder RS.

Non-engine upgrades include a lowered suspension, a more aggressive aero kit with larger intakes, upgraded brakes, and sharper steering. The prototype has the same front and rear fascias as the Cayman GT4 RS, but notice the car's side intakes are missing. The prototype's side intakes are scoops placed above the rear fenders.

Production is limited, so if you want to park one in your driveway at home, you may want to visit your local authorized Porsche dealer. These special editions usually sell out quickly.

Both this Boxster Spyder RS and the Cayman GT4 RS will likely be the last versions of the current 718. Porsche has confirmed plans to launch an electric 718 in 2025, but it is likely that a redesigned 718 with a gas engine will appear before that, with the gas and electric versions being sold in parallel.