Porsche 718 Boxster

• Car brand: Porsche
• Convertible roof type: Fabric
• Porsche 718 Boxster
• Porsche 718 Boxster S
• Porsche 718 Boxster GTS

They made a brave move with the Porsche 718 Boxster. Porsche wanted to clearly define a difference between the Boxster and Cayman models below the iconic 911. Over the years the mid-engined Boxster has eaten away at the 911’s lead to a point where it was getting hard to justify the higher price of a 911 Carrera. In addition emissions regulators were putting pressure on car makers to keep their average CO2 outputs low. As a result, the turbo-charged 4-cylinder 718 Boxster was born and the 6-cylinder engine was removed from the range. This raised initial concerns that the Boxster would lose some of its performance and character.

Luckily the flat-4 engine isn’t as disappointing as you might imagine. There is plenty of power available and the torque from the turbo comes in at low speeds making it flexible and easy to drive. It still likes to scream up to its 7600 rpm limit though and even the sound is deep and satisfyingly growly. It isn’t quite as inspiring as the final evolution of the flat-6 but the Boxster will live on without the old lump. Fuel economy is improved on paper but as with most turbo’s this doesn’t translate to enthusiastic or even everyday driving.

Engine aside, the Porsche 718 Boxster makes yet another incremental improvement in handling. The Boxster has long been the benchmark roadster for its poise, delicacy and control. A stiffened chassis provides even more grip yet somehow gives a supple ride over rough road surfaces. Luggage space is good and the build quality magnificent.

Round a track, the Boxster is faster and more capable than ever before but some of the personality has been lost. It remains, however, the roadster to beat and a very entertaining sports car.