The Boxster is no more and the 718 Boxster is its replacement. Does this mean radical change? Well it does come with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that has many purists crying foul. It may be the most controversial Porsche yet.
The 718 comes with two engine options. The Boxster comes with a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that pumps out 300hp while the top of the range Boxster S comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 350hp. We were only able to test drive the Boxster trim and well we found it to be fantastic. It may not have that rev happy six-cylinder of the old Boxster, but the turbo four really does sound good under heavy acceleration. You can choose between a slick seven-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed auto gearbox. Our tester car came with the auto gearbox and it is one fine transmission if we say so ourselves. Steering feedback is communicative and the overall driving experience is one we will never forget. We had the opportunity to drive it with the top down and well that just increased our liking to this vehicle, the open air driving experience is contagious and it really does hold its own well. The only problem with the 718 Boxster is that everyone everywhere wants to look at you and even at the gas station when we had to fill up, we were asked which Porsche is it and what engine is under the bonnet? This certianly isn't the vehicle for anyone who is shy when it comes to attention.
We could only drive the Porsche Boxster on the expressway and within the limits of the speed limit. We did get the chance to toss it into some corners and bends and the Boxster really did stick to each bend like glue. It's almost as if the car is riding on rails. Top up or down, wind noise isn't an issue at all and well road noise isn't really much to complain of.
The 718 Roadster only seats two people and well both passengers won't be short changed on space, even with the top up the space is generous. The seats offer plenty of support and adjust ability while the infotainment system is easy to use. We do highly suggest getting used to the various menus as it does get distracting while on the go. But why would anyone want to busy themselves with the infotainment when the real joy is behind the steering wheel? The boot is in the front and the rear and there's plenty of space for a few bags. This isn't a car for those who are looking for hot hatch space, it's a vehicle for those who want to drive and feel the road beneath them. Visibiity is outstanding for a roadster and we have nothing to complain of.
The 718 Boxster we had came equipped with 20-inch alloys, Bi-xenon headlights, Bose audio system, Lane Change Assist and navigation system. While on top of those optional features that were ticked you also get a sport exhaust system, leather package and vehicle launch system. Porsche is very notorious for making features that should be standard optional and charge and arm and leg for them. Our tester car had nearly $22k worth of added features which pushed the price into the sticker shock category, you really do get what you pay for here.
The 718 Boxster seems like a very formidable replacement for the Boxster itself. Steering is very communicative and the turbo engine is very smooth and responsive, we really did enjoy our time with the Boxster and wished that we didn't have to return it.
Likes: The chassis, steering and handling is fantastic! The turbo engine sings in your ears while you're greeted with a top-notch interior.
Dislikes: This isn't a vehicle for someone shy of attention. You won't see a mildly equipped Porsche on dealer lots.
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