The new 718 Boxster models are equipped with newly developed turbo flat-four engines with improved performance and reduced fuel consumption.
The two 718 variants were previewed in Sepang during the July 15-21 Porsche World Roadshow 2016.
The centrepiece of the new model series is the newly developed four-cylinder flat engine with turbocharging. With a 2.0-litre engine, the 718 Boxster develops 300hp, while the 718 Boxster S employs a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, generating 350hp from 2.5 litres of displacement.
In the S-model, Porsche also uses a turbocharger with Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG). In fact, Porsche is now the only manufacturer to offer VTG technology in production cars with petrol-driven engines, both in the 911 Turbo and in the 718 Boxster S. There's a considerable power gain of 35hp compared to the previous Boxster models and the greater efficiency of the new turbo engines. The new 718 Boxster models have fuel economy improvements of up to 13 per cent.
At the back, the cleanly-defined lines and two slim taillights that are connected by a solid accent trim are all designed to add width to the overall silhouette of the new 718 Boxster models. The fabric roof can be opened and closed in 9 seconds at up to a speed of 50kph. In addition, the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is included as standard. The navigation module is available as an option.
The launch of the new 718 Boxster generation is the first time that Porsche is implementing sports cars with four-cylinder flat engines since the end of the 1960s. Turbocharging significantly boosts torque. The two-litre engine of the 718 Boxster has a maximum torque of 380Nm (that is 100Nm), which is available from 1,950 rpm to 4,500 rpm. The 2.5-litre engine of the 718 Boxster S attains 420Nm (60Nm more) over a speed range from 1,900 rpm to 4,500 rpm.
The 718 Boxster – with PDK and the Sport Chrono Package – sprint from zero to 100kph in 4.7 seconds (0.8 seconds faster). The 718 Boxster S with the same equipment completes the run in 4.2 seconds (0.6 seconds faster). The top speed of the 718 Boxster is 275kph, and the 718 Boxster S has a top speed of 285kph.
The Porsche turbo concept boosts performance while improving fuel economy. In the 718 Boxster, the four-cylinder flat engine with PDK has a NEDC fuel consumption figure of 6.9 l/100 km (1.0 l/100 km less). In the 718 Boxster S, the 2.5-litre turbo flat engine with PDK consumes just 7.3 l/100 km (0.9 l/100 km less). In Malaysia, the 718 Boxster models are equipped with seven-speed PDK as standard.
The front end has a wider and more masculine appearance. The much larger cooling air intakes at the front are a distinct exterior expression of the new turbo engine concept. The front end of the 718 Boxster is rounded out by the new design of the bi-xenon headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), and is integrated with the LED day-time running lights. The LED headlights with four-point daytime running lights are available as a new option.
From the side view, identifying features of the new model line include new, independently styled wings and side sills. Larger air inlet panels with two fins 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. The 20-inch diameter wheels are available as an option.
The redesigned rear body of the 718 Boxster has a much wider look – especially due to the accent strip with integrated Porsche badge between the tail lights. The entirely redeveloped tail lights are distinguished by their three-dimensional LED technology and four-point brake lights.
The car's completely retuned chassis enhances cornering performance. The electromechanical steering system is configured to be ten per cent more direct. This makes the 718 Boxster even more agile and easier to steer, both on circuit tracks and in everyday traffic.
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with a 10mm lower ride height comes in standard for both 718 Boxster models. For the first time, the PASM sport chassis with a 20mm lower ride height is available as an option for the 718 Boxster S. The active chassis, which has also been retuned, offers an even broader spread between long-distance touring comfort and dynamic sporty stiffness.
The optional Sport Chrono Package now comprises the Individual programme in addition to the three settings Normal, Sport and Sport Plus. In sports cars with PDK, the Sport Response Button has been added, which is located in the middle of the driving programme switch. Inspired by the racing car, it enables the driver to configure the responsiveness of the engine and the PDK to be very direct.
Awaiting the driver in the cockpit of the 718 Boxster is the familiar Porsche interior environment, now upgraded with new elements such as the instrument panel. Another central element of the new interior layout is the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) unit with mobile phone preparation, audio interfaces and the Sound Package Plus with 110 watts of audio power. The PCM can be extended with optional modules to adapt it to personal requirements. For instance, a navigation module with voice control is available, which makes it easy to input driving destinations. In addition, the Connect Plus module is available as an extension of the navigation module; it provides extended online services.
“The new 718 Boxster models offer a significant leap in power and performance compared to the previous generation. It is a mid-engine sports car that combines the sporting spirit of the legendary 718 race car with that of the sports car of tomorrow,” said Sime Darby Auto Performance CEO Arnt Bayer.
The cars come with a four-year warranty and free maintenance package. Prices stated includes all applicable duties excluding registration fee, road tax and insurance.
