Porsche Boxster S 3.4 litres PDK 2dr Pre-Model Car Review - April 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £45,803
Tax Band: K
Insurance Group: N/A
MPG: 30.0
CO2: 221
0-62 Mph: 5.2 secs
BHP: 306 BHP
Range: 422 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.5/5
As the most affordable Porsche that is currently on the market the Boxster is a very attractive proposition for those who are looking for a two seater sports car, and the prestige of owning a Porsche is still attractive too. The purchase price may seem to be more than many other open top two seaters, but the Boxster is a beautifully balanced car that really is a joy to drive, especially when you leave the confines of the motorway for the A and B roads.

PROS:  The Boxster has the typical flamboyant Porsche style and is also a wonderful car to drive with the great handling that begs for a twisty road, and this model adds extra pace and power over the entry level 2.9 litre version.

CONS:  The extra performance delivered by this version of the Boxster adds a significant amount to the already expensive purchase price, with the level of equipment offered a little stingy.

Behind the Wheel

The ride that is found in the Boxster is very comfortable and never feels as though it is firm or bumpy, but it still delivers steering that has plenty of feedback and a car that has wonderful body control while cornering. The car has plenty of grip when you turn into the corner, and the sharp and light steering really feels as though the Porsche is leaping in to every corner. Inside the cabin the driving seat is adjustable for height and distance, while the steering wheel can also be adjusted for height and reach, and the visibility is also very good too.

The 3.4 litre engine is larger than that to be found in the entry level model, and this is reflected in the performance figures, with acceleration from 0-62mph achieved in a swift 5.2 seconds. The top speed of 169mph is also very good, with the PDK gearbox really moving through the gears very efficiently. Refinement is also very good, with the pleasant roar of the engine only becoming audible when you press the accelerator.

Looks & Equipment

There is no doubt that the Boxster is a very attractive car whether the fabric roof is stowed away or not, and the stance of the car is very aggressive and makes the car look as though it is waiting to pounce. The lines are flowing and are typical of the larger and more expensive Porsches, and the headlight and tail light clusters are both shaped into the aerodynamic lines of the car. Inside the cabin is very stylish and attractive, while the large dial at the centre of the dashboard is simple to read, although some switches on the centre console can be a little fiddly.

It is quite disappointing that a car with this price tag should feel that some of the equipment has been omitted, and the fact that cruise control and climate control are only optional extras is a shame. The alloy wheels are an important part of the look of the Boxster, and the leatherette trim is also very comfortable.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

A two seater open top sports car will never win awards for practicality, and with a small boot the Boxster isn't going to change that, but it isn't really what people buying the car will be concerned with. Porsche also has a superb reliability record which has been demonstrated by the great record of the Boxster.

The Boxster is also quite a safe car to drive, with a number of advanced Porsche driving aids that help to keep the car stable and the driver in control. There are also a number of airbags to look after the occupants in case of an accident.

Value for Money

The purchase price for the Boxster S is a hefty £45,803, and costing significantly more than the 2.9 litre version it is going to be difficult for many people to justify the extra expense.

Running costs for the Boxster S are also more, with the fuel efficiency of the 3.4 litre engine able to deliver an average 30.0mpg. Insurance costs are very high because of the high insurance group, but one reassuring aspect is that Porsche cars do have good resale values. The car is supplied with two years' roadside breakdown assistance and a two year unlimited mileage warranty.

Porsche Boxster S 3.4 litres PDK 2dr Pre-Model Car Review - by 
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