The new Boxster arrives in Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland this weekend, offering open-top driving enthusiasts a new generation of the benchmark roadster. With an all-new lightweight body, new flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, a completely revised chassis and evolutionary styling, the new Boxster sprints into summer in perfect shape.
The Porsche Boxster defines what an open-top sports car should be and core to its enduring appeal is the mid-engined layout that delivers renowned poise and balance combined with precise, agile handling.
Up to 35kg lower weight, a 60mm longer wheelbase, widened track on the front and rear axles, and larger wheels and tyres significantly enhance the performance of the new car by notably increasing its stability and agility. In fact, when equipped for optimal driving dynamics the new Boxster S can lap the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in 7:58 minutes, 12 seconds faster than its predecessor.
These attributes clearly result in the new Boxster offering a superior level of performance, but also help to deliver – in combination with many other new features – up to 15 per cent greater fuel efficiency.
With its distinctive roadster styling, the new Boxster clearly signals the unique driving experience on offer; shorter front and rear overhangs, a significantly forward-shifted windscreen, and a lowered roofline all add up to an expressive, purposeful stance. The appearance of the new Boxster is inspired by its illustrious lineage and also influenced by contemporary Porsche models. There are clear references to the legendary 550 Spyder and 718 RS from the Fifties and Sixties, while subtle cues from modern-day icons like the Carrera GT and much-anticipated 918 Spyder super-sports car are also evident.
A new, fully electric hood opens to reveal a distinctive interior whose design offers the driver and passenger increased space, while the centre console – originating in the Carrera GT – further improves ergonomics.
The Porsche Boxster is powered by a choice of charismatic flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, which beat literally at its heart. The mid-mounted power unit fitted in the Boxster delivers 265 hp (195 kW) from a 2.7 litre displacement – 10 hp more than its larger capacity 2.9-litre predecessor. Technically, it is now based on the 3.4-litre engine of the Boxster S. The 3.4-litre 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.
The philosophy of Porsche Intelligent Performance makes the new car not only the fastest Boxster ever, but also the most efficient roadster the company has ever made. When fitted with the PDK transmission and Sport Chrono Package option, the 2.7-litre Boxster sprints from 0- 62mph in 5.5 sec, the Boxster S in just 4.8 sec. Combined fuel consumption for the Boxster with PDK is 36.7mpg, and emissions of 180g/km CO2 places the model in Band I for Vehicle Excise Duty purposes. The Boxster S with PDK returns 35.3mpg Combined (188g/km CO2).
Built in Zuffenhausen, Stuttgart, the new Porsche Boxster is priced from £37,589, and from £45,384 for the Boxster S.
The Boxster features an Alcantara interior, 18” alloy wheels, Auto stop/start and Sports mode, remote control hood operation, audio CD with 7-inch colour touch-screen control, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a three year warranty.
The Boxster S adds 19-inch alloy wheels, partial leather interior and Bi-Xenon headlights in addition to the power advantage of the larger 3.4-litre engine.
All new Boxster customers can also explore the potential of their car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.
