Porsche has equipped the Boxster with a new, smaller engine. The much loved naturally aspirated flat-six cylinder Boxer engine of the Boxster has made to a turbocharged flat four engine. Claimed to be a part of Porsche’s endeavour to cut down on emissions and improve the fuel efficiency of its cars, the new engine displaces 2-litre. The 2.5-litre motor of the Boxster S is yet to find its way to India.
To Porsche’s dynamically gifted mid-engine convertible, the change of motor means 300bhp of peak power at 6,500rpm, and 380Nm of peak torque at 1,950-4,500rpm. When compared to the earlier 3.4-litre engine, which produced 315bhp at 6,700rpm, and 360Nm at 4,500-5,800rpm, the difference isn’t much. A reflection of change in engine technology can be seen in the turbocharger, and also the suspension and steering.
Styling change
The styling change may not alter the basic appearance of the small cabriolet, but it brings it up to speed with the times. The windscreen and the fabric roof are claimed to have been borrowed from the 981. The bi-xenon head lamps with four-point LED daytime running lights are new and draw attention. The large air intake in the bumper also attracts attention. The sides look the same except for some minor changes. The rear looks more rounded, and is dominated by new LED lights with four-point brake lamps. The black stripe that connects the lights makes the Porsche look wider than it really is.
Sound and seat
Typical of a sports car, the seating of the 718 Boxster is low. It, however, does not hamper the visibility. Subtle changes like the slightly redesigned air-con vents, the steering wheel and the touchscreen bring the cabin up to speed. Unless the buyer spends a good sum on a higher fidelity sound system and sporty seats, the standard equipment includes an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a sound system that gives a feeling that it could have been more impressive. It is the same with the seats. They are supportive, but could leave the driver and passenger to expect them to be more bolstered. With the space saver spare wheel placed behind the passenger seat, the ability to recline it becomes very limited.
Boomy note
Clocking 0 to 100kmph in five seconds, the 718 Boxster is quick. The way power builds in this car is different from the way it did in the earlier model. There is a momentary feeling of turbo lag, followed by a strong pull. The raspy, deep-throated note of the earlier car has given way to high spirited and boomy note that is accompanied by an occasional popping sound. Those graduating to the new Boxster will take some time getting used to the sound.
Handling corners
Continuing to be as dynamically gifted as the model it succeeds, the 718 Boxster simply runs like a locomotive. It exerts a vice-like grip through the corners and feels highly connected. The steering, the pedals, the paddles (the 7-speed dual clutch PDK gearbox is brilliant), and almost every bit of the car contributes towards an experience that is mighty impressive. It shrinks around the driver, pulling him in, and into the centre of action. The ride is fairly good, and the ground clearance good enough to manage most of our road irregularities. The Boxster has a stiff edge to its ride, however, it is not annoying or uncomfortable.
Verdict
A brilliant sports car, the change of engine has not done it any harm. It continues to be as rewarding. To those who are familiar with the earlier model, the new car may come across as a toned down version. The truth is, the new 718 Boxster is as impressive if not a little different in the way it puts down its power, and the note that it puts out.
On the practical side of it, the smaller engine has qualified the car for a tax break. As a CBU, the 718 Boxster now costs a good Rs 25 lakh less. Priced at Rs 85.53 lakh ex-showroom Delhi, the 718 Boxster is a charming little sports cabriolet that turns heads on the road.
Pros: Styling, performance, price
Cons: The space saver spare wheel placement
