A new name, less cylinders, and the addition of forced induction as standard. Is this still the same mid-engined Porsche roadster"
We’ll deal with the name first, as that’s potentially the least contentious element here. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, Porsche produced a number of mid-engined sportscars, that were powered by four-cylinder boxer engines, wearing the 718 badge. So whilst there’s an obvious heritage angle to play on instantly, Porsche also argues it brings the Boxster into line with other models like the 911 Carrera and 918 Hybrid. Which leaves us wondering what numbers they’ll pick for the Macan and Cayenne… It does make things a bit of a mouthful, along with adding a fair bit of nomenclature to the back end. Luckily it’s a no-cost option to delete it all should you not want all that lettering. In keeping with established 718 tradition, the new Boxster loses two cylinders to become a flat-four, after two decades of being powered by a classic Porsche flat-six motor. Does it matter" Well, the standard 718 Boxster features a 2.0-litre unit making 300 bhp, whilst the 718 Boxster S engine grows to 2.5-litres and 350 bhp. Performance is improved with a 0-62 mph time of 4.7 seconds for the Boxster, and 4.2 seconds for the Boxster S. Decreases of 0.8 and 0.6 seconds respectively over the previous model, but only if you specify the PDK dual-clutch gearbox and the Sport Chrono pack. In case you’re wondering, those two...