2008 Porsche Boxster Review

The mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive Porsche Boxster continues to be powered by a 245-horspower, 2.7L horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine for 2008, while the S model gets a stronger 295-horsepower, 3.4L flat six. Boxsters come with a five-speed manual gearbox, but if optioned with the available Sport package it has a six-speed manual; Boxster S models come with the six-speed, but either model can be optioned with the five-speed Tiptronic automatic.

A power-folding soft top is standard on the Boxster, as is a rear spoiler that automatically deploys at speed to aid stability; it re-stows automatically upon return to lower speed.

The Boxster isn't luxurious, but it does come well equipped and with distinctive materials inside. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, cruise control, an alarm system, a CD sound system, leather-trimmed upholstery, heated power mirrors, and heated washer nozzles.

The Boxster has an overwhelmingly long list of optional equipment, including special interior trims, accessories, and more major options such as adaptive sport seats, a Bose surround sound audio system, the park assist system, and a Sport Chrono Package for those who plan to attend the occasional track day. The Sport Package adds to the base Boxster the six-speed gearbox, along with PASM, an active suspension system that rides 10 mm lower and enables more firmness during hard cornering.

The new GT3 RS Orange Boxster model for 2008 brings many of the appearance cues of the race-ready, 911 GT3 RS supercar to the Boxster, including the distinctive orange-and-black colors. The Limited Edition Boxsters will get black wheels with silver rims, along with a SportDesign body kit that brings a redesigned rear spoiler and integrated diffuser that actually reduces aerodynamic lift without increasing drag. Inside, there's a suede-like Alcantara trim used throughout, with the orange-and-black motif carried throughout the interior, and a three-spoke steering wheel such as that used in the real GT3.

The Limited Edition Boxster is actually priced at a savings when compared to the cost of adding the additional equipment from the options list. The GT3 RS package will be offered in a limited run of 500 vehicles-250 as Boxster and 250 as Boxster S.
A new Porsche GT3 RS Orange Boxster, made in a limited number of only 500 vehicles, is the big news for 2008. The Limited Edition Boxsters get the same orange-and-black motif, along with some of the same appearance cues, as found on the race-ready, exclusive 911 GT3 RS model, plus a performance sport exhaust, black convertible top, and special Alcantara interior trim.

The rest of the Boxster line is carried over to 2008. see less