Never before in the history of the Porsche Boxster was a change of generation so comprehensive. The open-top two-seater car is being marketed with a completely new lightweight body and a completely revamped chassis. Considerably lower weight, longer wheelbase, a wider track and larger wheels significantly enhance yet further the mid-engine sports car’s driving dynamics, already far and away the best in its class, supported by the new electro-mechanical power steering. The new Boxsters boast superior performance and are also up to 15 per cent more fuel-efficient.
The styling of the new Porsche Boxster clearly signals the unique driving experience on offer; with shorter front and rear overhangs, significantly forward-shifted windscreen, a flatter silhouette and expressive edges. Inside, the passengers are enclosed by a new fully electric hood, which now dispenses with a compartment lid for the convertible top when stowed. The interior design offers the driver and passenger more space and reflects the new Porsche outline, while the distinctive centre console – originating in the Carrera GT further improves ergonomics.
The new generation Porsche roadster makes its debut in the classic Porsche pairing of Boxster and Boxster S. Both derivatives are powered by charismatic flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, the efficiency of which is further enhanced by electrical system recuperation, thermal management and start/stop function.
The new power unit fitted in the Porsche Boxster delivers 265 hp (195 kW) from a 2.7 litre displacement – 10 hp more than its larger capacity predessesor Technically, it is now based on the 3.4-litre engine of the Boxster S. The 3.4-litre now delivers 315 hp (232 kW), 5 hp more than before. Both models feature a manual six-speed gearbox as standard, with the seven-speed dual-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an option.
Fuel consumption for the Porsche Boxster with PDK is 7.7 l/100 km (36.7 mpg imp), and 8.0 l/100 km (35.3 mpg imp) for the Boxster S. With gear changes achieved without interruption to the flow of power, the Boxster sprints from 0-100 km/h (0-62mph) in 5.7 sec, the Boxster S in just 5.0 sec.
To enhance the driving dynamics further, the Sport Chrono Package option is offered on the Boxster, featuring Dynamic Transmission Mounts for the first time. Also new in the Boxster is the option of Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear limited slip differential.
