New Porsche 718 Boxster revealed

Porsche Boxster gets a new name as well as turbocharged flat-four engines

Towards the end of 2015, Porsche announced the next-gen Boxster and Cayman will be renamed as 718. The Stuttgart-based sportscar maker has now announced that the 718 Boxster will go on sale first. Details and specifications of the new roadster are out; customer deliveries start from April 2016 in Germany.

718 badge aside, the main highlight of the new model is the introduction of forced induction powertrain in the Boxster range – in the name of downsizing so as to increase efficiency and performance. The 718 Boxster will be offered with two engine options – a 2.0 litre turbocharged flat-four petrol developing 296bhp/380Nm in the standard version and a 2.5-litre flat-four petrol with variable geometry turbo producing 345bhp/420Nm in the 718 Boxster S. Compared to the outgoing six-cylinder engines, power figure is up by 35bhp in the new versions. Torque figures have been increased by 100Nm and 60Nm in standard and S version, respectively. Six-speed manual transmission is standard – which is a good news for purists – while PDK (dual-clutch automatic) is optional. Drive goes to rear wheels whichever transmission option you tick.

When equipped with optional Sport Chrono Package and PDK, the 718 models are claimed to be significantly faster than the outgoing version. The standard car does 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds (0.8 seconds quicker) whereas the more powerful S version is 0.6 seconds faster from earlier, clocking 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds.

Subtle design revisions have also been given to the new Boxster. The 718 looks more stylish now, thanks to larger air intakes, sleek LED light strips, slim new headlights and tastefully designed 19-inch alloy wheels. At the back, the new model gets re-profiled taillights while it has also been given a wider look with the help of a running “accent strip” with integrated Porsche badge between the tail lights. Interior of the new model remains more or less unchanged, although the cabin now gets some additional features and equipment.

The 718 Boxster is priced at 53, 646 euros (approx. Rs 40.5 lakh) while the 718 Boxster S carries a price tag of 66,141 euros (approx. Rs 49 lakh). The 718 Cayman is expected to be revealed next, and is expected to be technically identical to the new Boxster.