The Boxster is Porsche's entry-level sports car, built on a mid-engine chassis with seating for two. For 2014, it's offered in three levels: Base, S and GTS.
The Base-level Boxster is powered by a 2.7L flat-6-cylinder engine that makes 265 horsepower. The S gets a 3.4L version of the flat-six, tuned to make 315 horsepower. The GTS is also powered by a 3.4L, though thanks partially to a standard sport exhaust, the GTS makes 330 horsepower. Two transmissions are available: a 6-speed manual is standard and PDK 7-speed dual clutch transmission is optional on all three models.
Mileage is pretty good for a sports car, thanks primarily to the Boxster's low weight. Fuel economy for the base model is rated at 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway. The S does only marginally worse at 28 mpg highway.
Safety features include standard anti-lock brakes, traction control, Porsche Stability Management and a host of side, thorax and head airbags for both driver and passenger. LED indicator lights and tail lights help improve visibility in all conditions.
The base Boxster is very well equipped, coming with electric-assist steering, 18-inch wheels, a power-folding convertible top with rear heated glass. The rear air dam extends and retracts automatically at speed. The wipers are rain-sensing. Inside, the Boxster comes with leather seat trim, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and keyless entry are included.
The S upgrades the powertrain but it also upgrades the wheels to 19-inch. The headlights are HID and the sound system gets upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen model.
Porsche is notorious for offering a very extensive list of customization options. The Boxster offers 4 additional wheel options, 2 types of power-adjustable seats that are available in a dizzying array of leather trim. A Premium package adds dual-zone climate control, HID headlamps and power-adjustable seats. Ceramic composite high-performance brakes are available, as is a sport exhaust system. In-dash navigation and Bose audio are available, so are color-keyed seatbelts, ventilated seats, several wood-trimmed heated steering wheels-- the list is very extensive.
Superb Steering And Handling, Top-level Performance In An Easy-to-live-with Package
After a major redesign for 2013, the Boxster and Boxster S enter into 2014 relatively unchanged. A new trim, the Boxster GTS has been added to the lineup, displacing the S version as the top rung on the Boxster ladder. The GTS gets more power and unique exterior styling touches. It also comes standard with plenty of kit that is only optional on the S version.
The Porsche Boxster is the least-expensive way to get into a Porsche. Starting at just under $50,000, the Boxster offers a lightweight mid-engine chassis powered by a choice of potent powertrains, including an optional 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. While the Boxster is in the same class as the BMW Z4, Audi TTS, Corvette Convertible and Mercedes SLK, nothing else offers mid-engine handling, Porsche's performance reputation and more customization options than the Boxster.
