Four cylinder turbo ‘boxer’ engines with more power, more torque and greater efficiency.
In the twenty years since its debut, the Porsche Boxster has established itself as the benchmark roadster. Porsche has now released details of the new generation of the mid-engined two-seater, powered by a newly-developed range of flat four cylinder ‘boxer’ engines with turbocharging. At the same time, a new designation is introduced; 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S.
These new models continue the tradition of the Porsche 718 mid-engined sports cars that won numerous races in the 1950s and 1960s, powered by four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engines. It also sits neatly beside the established sports car icons with numbered identities – 718 Boxster, 911 Carrera, 918 Spyder, 919 Hybrid.
More powerful yet more fuel efficient, the centrepiece of the new model series is the 718 Boxster which develops 300 hp (220 kW) from its turbocharged 2.0 litre engine. When fitted with optional PDK double-clutch automatic transmission and the Sport Chrono Package, the 718 Boxster sprints from 0 – 62 mph in 4.7, almost a second quicker than the previous model.
Meanwhile the 718 Boxster S is able to reach 62 mph half a second quicker, thanks to its 2.5 litre engine and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, producing 350hp. The 718 Boxster S will go on to reach a top speed of 177 mph compared to 170mph in the 718 Boxster.
Complementing the more powerful engines is new suspension tuning and uprated brakes, ensuring the characteristically dynamic and emotive Boxster driving experience loved by so many, remains.
The launch of the new 718 Boxster represents a return by Porsche to building sports cars with flat four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engines. The addition of a turbocharger significantly boosts torque. The pull of the 2.0-litre engine in the 718 Boxster has increased by nearly a quarter versus the prior model, with 380 Nm of torque (a gain of 100 Nm) available from 1,950 rpm to 4,500 rpm. In the case of the 2.5-litre engine in the 718 Boxster S, this generates 420 Nm (60 Nm more) across a speed range from 1,900 rpm to 4,500 rpm.
The 718 Boxster distinguishes itself at first glance, with a much more sculptural form. The front has a wider and more purposeful appearance, with larger cooling air intakes being a distinct expression of the new turbocharged engine beating within. The nose of the 718 Boxster is completed by the new design of the Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. LED headlights with four-point daytime running lights are available as a new option.
In profile, identifying features of the new model line include independently-styled wheel arches and side sills. Larger air inlet panels with two fins further emphasise the car's dynamic look. The doors are now designed without door handle recess covers. New 19-inch wheels are standard on the 718 Boxster S. 20-inch diameter wheels are available as an option.
The rear of the 718 Boxster has been redesigned, characterized by a much wider appearance – emphasized by the accent strip with integrated ‘Porsche’ badge between the tail lights. The tail lights were completely re-designed, and are distinguished by three-dimensional LED technology and four-point brake lights.
The new Porsche 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S are available to order today from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland, priced from £41,739.00 RRP for the 718 Boxster and £50,695.00 RRP onwards for the 718 Boxster S. First deliveries will be in the Spring.