From the list of advantages of the new Boxster S, comfort had to be crossed out — every small defect in the road surface reverberates in the spine. But is it worth regretting this when you get phenomenal handling in return? The steering wheel is precise and sharp, and the robotic PDK gearbox with dual clutches, like a well-trained butler, anticipates the driver's wishes in advance. Shifts are lightning-fast and always appropriate — you don't even feel the urge to interfere with its work. Except maybe before a turn, you pull the paddle shifters towards you to downshift...
You won't feel the moment when the self-locking differential engages on wet pavement. But impeccable traction in all modes indicates that this option for 1140 euros fully justifies its price.
On the day of the test, the rain didn't stop for a minute, so we couldn't check the soft top folding mechanism. However, smiling Porsche employees assure that it takes 12 seconds, and the process can be started by reducing speed to 50 km/h. We'll take their word for it.
As befits a Porsche, the new Boxster is almost indistinguishable from its predecessor externally. Except that the headlights have become slightly more slanted, the rear lights have slightly changed shape, and LEDs have appeared in the parking lights. It's interesting whether designers are punished for creative impulses or, on the contrary, rewarded for their absence?
Manufacturer's data
ENGINE
3436 cm³, petrol,
6 cylinders opposed,
310 hp at 6400 rpm,
360 Nm at 5500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
PDK gearbox, 7 speeds
or manual, 6 speeds,
rear-wheel drive
DYNAMICS
max speed — 272 km/h,
acceleration 0–100 km/h — 5.2 s
DIMENSIONS (mm)
length — 4340
width — 1800
height — 1290