Porsche unveils new 718 Boxster Coupe…

PORSCHE has unveiled the new generation Boxster range, mid-engine, two-seater powered by a newly-developed range of flat four cylinder ‘boxer’ engines with turbocharging.

The new model series is the 718 Boxster which develops 220 kW from its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine. The 718 Boxster S has a 2.5-litre engine, which develops 257 kW, its greater power literally boosted by its use of a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. In fact, Porsche is now the only manufacturer to offer this technology in production cars with petrol engines, both in the 911 Turbo and 718 Boxster S.

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.

Inside, a newly-designed dash panel frames the cockpit. In addition, the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with state-of-the-art touchscreen and mobile phone preparation included as standard. The navigation module is available as an option.

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 mor) across a speed range from 1,900 rpm to 4,500 rpm.

Each 718 model is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. The Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), which now features fuel-saving ‘virtual gears’ previously introduced on the 911 model series, is available as an option.

Available as an option is Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) combined with a 10mm lower ride height. For the first time, a PASM Sport Chassis with a 20mm lower ride height can also be specified as an option for the 718 Boxster S. The active chassis, the settings for which have also been re-tuned, now offers an even broader spread between long-distance touring comfort and dynamic responsiveness.