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Despite the changes to its exterior being best described as subtle, the Porsche Boxster has been subjected to its most far-reaching update since making its debut 20 years ago. The adoption of four-cylinder engines will be tough for some purists to swallow, but what these new units lack in ultimate character, they make up for with scorching performance and decent efficiency.
Better still, the tweaks to the suspension and steering have made the 718 Boxster even sharper and more involving to drive. Few cars at any price are as entertaining as this mid-engined Porsche on a twisting back road. Elsewhere, the updated looks give the Boxster even more visual appeal, while the interior still sets the standard for fit and finish. The Porsche is also surprisingly practical, thanks to its roomy cabin and two spacious boots. Prices have risen, but given the extra kit and performance the Porsche is as desirable as ever, particularly in entry-level guise.
The original Boxster made its debut two decades ago and helped attract a whole host of new customers to Porsche ownership. With its mid-engined layout and characterful six-cylinder engines, the two-seater roadster proved to be a popular and more engaging alternative to models such as the BMW Z4, Audi TT and Mercedes SLK.
Now in its third generation, the latest Boxster has undergone the biggest and most controversial update in its twenty-year history. At the heart of this radical overhaul is the adoption of turbocharged four-cylinder ?boxer' engines in place of the traditional flat-six units.
Essentially these powerplants are the same as the latest six-cylinder units in the larger 911, but with two of the cylinders chopped off. The entry-level Boxster gets a 297bhp 2.0-litre unit, while the flagship S has a larger 345bhp 2.5-litre engine. Both are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, while Porsche's familiar seven-speed PDK twin-clutch transmission is available as an option.
Read more on Auto Express.
