With an all-new lightweight body, new flat-six engines, direct injection and a suite of chassis and ancillary upgrades, the new Porsche Boxster has undergone a revolution and it's coming to Australia this year.
The comprehensive makeover sees the entry-level Porsche lose weight and gain power, while also becoming more stable thanks to a revamped chassis with longer wheelbase, wider track and larger wheels.
Porsche Cars Australia told motoring.com.au that an exact arrival date for the new generation Boxster not not yet been nailed down, but said we can expect it to arrive in dealerships sometime in the second half of 2012.
Engine choices see Boxster and Boxster S receive direct injected 2.7 and 3.4-litre horizontally-opposed six-cylinder units respectively. The efficiency of both powerplants is improved by enhanced electrical system recuperation, thermal management and an idle stop/start system.
The base model now outputs 195kW (up 7kW) while the sportier ‘S’ gains four kilowatts to deliver 232kW. Boxster is also available with Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with mechanical rear axle differential lock and Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (six-speed manual standard).
Boxster accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and consumes 7.7L/100km (PDK) while Boxster S hits triple figures in 5.0 seconds while averaging 8.0L/100km (PDK).
New electro-mechanical power steering has been added while performance gains are scored across the line-up. Fuel economy is also improved by as much as 15 per cent.
The new body offers shorter overhangs and a more forward mounted windscreen. Porsche says the car’s silhouette is more expressive in profile, its edges more definite.
Inside, the electrically-operated roof dispenses with the convertible top compartment lid while added interior space improves comfort. A new Carrera GT-inspired centre console brings a sportier feel to Boxster’s décor, the Sports Chrono Package an added optional extra.
The new Porsche Boxster goes on sale in Europe mid-April with local sales to begin in the second half of 2012. Local pricing will be announced closer to that time.
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