July 2009
Porsche Boxster Boxster
Simple detail changes between this and outgoing car
July 2009
Likes:
- Slick controls throughout
- Rewarding driving experience
- High levels of refinement
- Surprising amount of luggage space
Gripes:
- Isn't tolerant of sloppy driving
- Centre console improved, but still complicated
- Porsche badge makes it an expensive choice
- Not adept at discretion
The Cayenne SUV may have helped to pay Porsche's bills, but it was the Boxster that allowed a new generation of fans to fall for the charms of the Stuttgart brand. Since the original car was introduced in 1997 the Boxster has grown up to become much more than an alternative to the 911, and even in its most basic form has a lot to offer.
The Boxster faced a mixed reception when first introduced with accusations of diluting the brand from Porsche purists. However, its rear drive, mid-engined layout means it possesses the characteristic balance that Porsche models have become famous for, while the powerful flat-six engines help weight distribution, are extremely smooth and offer a distinctive bark at high rpm.
Both of the power plants have been revised for 2009 with the Boxster unit increasing from 2.7-litres to 2.9-litres and 255bhp and the Boxster S unit retaining its 3.4-litre capacity but increasing in output to 310bhp. The new engines are lighter and simpler in design although both remain flat-six in configuration, while the larger unit in the Boxster S employs direct fuel injection for the first time. The result is decreased emissions and increased fuel economy: the Boxster S using the PDK transmission can achieve more that 30mpg, an improvement of 16 per cent over the old Tiptronic S system.
The PDK box is useful for more than just improved fuel consumption, however. The Boxster range benefits from the addition of the twin clutch technology following its debut on the 911 range, replacing the previous Tiptronic S automated manual system. Sharper changes and a greater degree of flexibility means the Boxster can be a relaxed, fully automatic boulevard cruiser one moment and offer a razor-sharp racing experience the next.
Elsewhere, revisions are less obvious. The exterior design has been subtly revised with new wings at the front and changes to the headlamp assembly, with relocated indicators and fashionable LED daytime driving lights. At the rear, LEDs are employed again to offer a more striking design, while the exhausts are centralised and new wheel designs are employed.
Our verdict on the Porsche Boxster Boxster
The subtle exterior refresh and detail improvements represent the classic Porsche approach to model evolution, but it works a treat. The basic Boxster is no poor relation to the more expensive models, as it enjoys the same superior engineering and a delightful feeling of 'rightness' that goes to the core. There are cheaper rivals, but few make such tantalising ownership prospects.
Costs
The Boxster requires a considerable investment in basic form with costs rising once options are added. Even so, the models have traditionally boasted excellent residual values so a sensibly specified car should see sensible returns. The handling of the model would be considered by some to be worth the money alone although, for the more casual driver, the decreased fuel consumption will be more of a benefit. Servicing and parts will not be cheap, however reliability should be strong.
Space and practicality
For a two-seater sports car the interior feels spacious. Despite its wrap-around design there's plenty of room in which to get comfortable. Door bins and glovebox are modest, but, with luggage space front and rear, the Boxster can accept a surprising number of bags and cases.
Controls and display
The cabin layout is improved over older cars, with the classic Porsche script dominating the large spread of dials in the centre of the dash. The rest of the controls feature decent ergonomics, with weighty steering full of feedback and controls that are easy to operate once understood. The PCM system does a good of tidying up the centre console, although with additional equipment specified there's still a lot going on.
Comfort
There's a surprising amount of refinement to be found inside the Boxster, despite the canvas roof, and wind and road noise are well suppressed. Even with the roof down there's minimal buffeting. The ride is on the firm side, but that's the nature of the beast. It does a good job of eliminating the bumps regardless. With the engine located immediately behind you there's more noise than in some rivals, but the flat-six hum is very pleasant and the majority of the noise is exhaust related. New seats offer a greater level of comfort with advanced ventilation that blows air through the seat cover, and the driving position can be readily adjusted. All of the mod-cons you might expect are present.
Car security
The Boxster is a car that always attracts attention - most of it is positive but you've got to be prepared for the inevitable negative attention from vindictive individuals and the criminal fraternity. Thankfully Porsche has covered the usual bases with the likes of an immobiliser and remote central locking. The weakest part of the car is its roof, which is why the optional hardtop will no doubt appeal to some people. An optional tracking system offers extra peace of mind.
Car safety
The Boxster's ultra-firm chassis affords its own level of safety and special attention has been paid to protecting occupants when the roof is down with a strong safety cell and a body that diverts energy around it. Roll-over bars are also present as are head, thorax and frontal airbags. The PCM stability control system is a potential lifesaver too, able to assist in braking and in countering oversteer very effectively.
Driver appeal
All the attention may be on the more powerful Boxster S, but the standard model has more than enough power to be entertaining. Riding on slightly narrower rubber also gives the steering even more feel and enthusiastic driving reveals that there is a near-perfect balance between power and grip. With the clever PSM system as a back up, even the relatively inexperienced can enjoy the performance, although the tight gearshift and clutch action will protest if operated lazily.
Family car appeal
With the ability to take only one passenger, the Boxster is definitely not a family car. If you can afford it, the baby Porsche would make a great second car alongside the firm's family-orientated Cayenne. But on its own the Boxster is a firm no for family duties.
First car appeal
Expensive and with insurance premium baiting performance, the Porsche Boxster would be a poor choice for the young driver. It will also be too powerful for the majority of novice drivers.
Quality and image
Porsche's image has traditionally been very strong and, although the Boxster got off to something of a troubled start, it has established itself as a worthy wearer of the Stuttgart badge with its strong performance credentials and Porsche-like driving experience. Its kerb appeal is somewhat hampered by a partly deserved reputation as a poser's car, but anyone who knows their cars will understand that the Boxster's on road performance negates those opinions. The quality is not in doubt, with robust standard of build and materials.
Accessibility
Driver and passenger sit low down in the Boxster, worth bearing that in mind if you're not the most agile. Getting out of the low-slung position tends to be more of an issue than getting in. The car's doors are big, so making a dignified exit in a crowded car park is a challenge.
Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)
Standard kit is rather basic considering the Boxster's price tag, with just a CD radio featuring a five-inch monochromatic display to show for your money. An additional investment will see an upgrade to the PCM system with touchscreen sat-nav and a 40GB hard disc. Mobile phone preparation and a high quality Bose sound system are also available along with iPod integration, TV tuner and voice control, but all will cost extra. Where present, the uprated systems are ergonomic and highly functional, adding to the premium feel.
Colours and trim
Four new colours have been added to the Porsche Boxster range for 2009, giving customers even more ways to avoid the uninspired, if safe, silver that the majority of Boxsters appear to be specified in. The roof can also be specified in red for the first time. Inside the centre console now boasts a black finish while leather comes in a range of tans - making the Boxster even easier to personalise.
Parking
The sloping bodywork and low seating position of the Boxster mean the extremities are not always in view, but the model still proves reasonably easy to park once familiar. The turning circle is good, although there's a tendency to skip at low speed on full lock due to the chassis configuration. Rear blind spots can be eliminated by dropping the roof.
Spare wheel
Puncture repair kit fitted as standard.
Range information
Petrol engine options - 2.9-litre (255bhp); 3.4-litre (310bhp). Transmission options: six-speed manual gearbox, seven-speed PDK twin clutch sequential manual with auto mode. Trim levels: Individual options available.
Alternative cars
BMW Z4 Controversial styling, practical folding hard top
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Sleek, well built and 350 is comparatively priced
Nissan 370Z Roadster Bargain buy Nissan is focused and enjoyable
Honda S2000 Rev-happy Honda has loads of character but ageing