The highly anticipated 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster and Boxster S convertibles are set to go on sale at the end of June. The latest models will receive a midcycle update and the new 718 heritage-inspired designations. If you’ve been a fan of the Porsche Boxster in the past, the 2017 model is a great buy.
New Features
The latest 718 Boxster will have new taillights, a wider front and rear, redesigned bi-xenon headlights, and door handles devoid of recess covers. The interior cabin sees a few upgrades as well, including the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with touch screen and optional navigation module. The 2017 models also get peppier engines with upgraded suspension and tighter steering, which should make for a thrilling drive.
A new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine has replaced the old six-cylinder, giving the Boxster more power and efficiency. In fact, Porsche has announced the Boxster’s torque sees a 35 percent increase over the previous engine.
With these upgrades you might expect a higher price tag — and you’d be correct. The 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster starts at $57,050, including the destination charge. To put that in perspective, the 2016 Boxster without the 718 designation started at $53,095. If you prefer the 2017 Boxster S, you’re looking at a $69,450 price tag.
Differences Between the 718 Boxster and the 718 Boxster S
If you are still on the fence about which 718 model you prefer, here are some things you should know:
The 2017 718 Boxster gets a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine capable of going from zero to 60 in 4.5 seconds. By contrast, the 718 Boxster S boasts a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that can reach 60 mph in 4.0 seconds when equipped with a PDK gearbox and Sport Chrono package. The regular 718 Boxster has a top speed of 170 mph; the 718 Boxster S can reach 177 mph. There’s also a difference in torque, with the 718 Boxster getting 280 lb.-ft. and the 718 Boxster S 309 lb.-ft. Both feature a six-speed manual transmission.
The Sport Chrono package will be familiar to Porsche owners, as the long-running option adds Sport and Sport Plus settings that include a Sport Response button to maximize the car’s acceleration. The 2017 version is integrated into the Porsche Communication Management infotainment system, which streamlines the technology and makes it more user-friendly. While the infotainment system itself is now standard, you will need to upgrade to gain the Sport Chrono package, navigation option, and other online services.
Not only do both models have great power and efficiency, but they are also fuel-efficient. The EPA has yet to rate the 2017 718 Boxster, but estimates are expected to be quite good — as much as 14 percent better than earlier models. The amount of money you will save at the pump should help ease any concerns you have about paying more for the new 718 Boxster.
Additional Style Changes
The 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster comes with many changes to set it apart from last year’s model, some of which are subtle. The newer car gets a complete overhaul from bumper to bumper with a new windshield, convertible top, compartment lids, and larger air intakes. You also have the option of upgrading to 20-inch wheels, giving the car an even sportier edge.
The dashboard has also been revitalized, and two different versions of the Porsche Active Suspension Management system are available. Porsche thoughtfully considered each design change, resulting in a comprehensively updated Boxster rather than a complete redesign. Porsche is merely fine-tuning what it already got right in the first place.
Driving Impressions
While only a privileged few have driven the 2017 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S yet, reviewers that have had that privilege are singing the car’s praises. Given that the model has been a perennial 10Best Cars winner from Car and Driver, reviewers are already predicting the 718 Boxster will be a sheer pleasure to drive. On paper, power and efficiency are clearly there, and new engineering upgrades mean the 2017 Boxster should handle and perform even better than last year, so it’s safe to say that this is one car you will definitely want to test drive.
Only time will tell how the 2017 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S models will be received, but here at Porsche of Melbourne the anticipation is already through the roof, it’s a safe bet to assume they will go down in Porsche’s history as being one of the most successful lineups.