Overview
The Porsche 718 Boxster’s sublime driving dynamics, punchy turbocharged flat-four engines, and classic styling make it one heck of a sports car—one that we regularly add to our annual 10Best Cars list. Most versions ride almost gracefully enough to make the Boxster a comfortable daily commuter. And if you pack lightly, the Boxster can work for weekend getaways. It’s certainly a head turner—that is, if you can slow down long enough to give passersby a chance to gawk.
What’s New for 2018?
An even sportier GTS model joins the ranks for 2018, boasting 15 extra horsepower from the turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four that it shares with the S model. Porsche now offers complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first year of ownership on all its vehicles, including the 718 Boxster.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Base: $58,450
- S: $70,850
- GTS: $82,950
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Boxster starts with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 300-hp flat four, which the Boxster S kicks up to 2.5 liters and 350 hp. Both models come standard with an excellent six-speed manual gearbox, and both can be equipped with Porsche’s outstanding seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The new GTS model utilizes the 2.5-liter unit from the Boxster S but dials in 15 more horsepower for a total of 365. It sprints from zero to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, making the most of Porsche’s quick-shifting PDK seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Boxster’s handling and steering prowess are the characteristics that most inspire our affections. It feels balanced and stable through corners, while the brilliantly communicative steering reacts quickly and accurately to even small inputs.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Boxster’s cabin is compact and well organized, but drivers may find themselves disappointed in the materials. It has the kind of plastic that can be found in far less costly cars. But more leather is available for an instrument-cluster cover, center-console lid, and door-panel trim pieces. And the new GTS model brings with it some additional interior design flourishes—faux-suede fabric is used on the seats, steering-wheel cover, and armrests, and the GTS logo is prominently embroidered onto the headrests. There’s plenty of space for two in the Boxster, although in-cabin storage is seriously lacking. But at least there’s the flexibility of both front and rear cargo compartments.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Boxster doesn’t ace every infotainment test, but the Porsche Communication Management system is easy to use. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker audio system. We’d usually complain about a mere two USB ports, but with only two seats in the car, the Boxster gets a pass. Wi-Fi, navigation, and Apple CarPlay are all available, but Android Auto is still not offered in any Porsche.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Porsche 718 Boxster’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer’s CPO program.
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