2005 Porsche Boxster: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Porsche redesigned its least-expensive car for 2005, giving it more power, a new interior, and revised styling. Size and weight change only fractionally from the 1997-2004 version, and Boxster remains a 2-seat convertible with a mid-mounted, horizontally opposed 6-cyl engine. It returns in base and S models, both with a power soft top and heated glass rear window. The base retains a 2.7-liter engine, but has 240 hp vs. 228. The S reprises a 3.2-liter, but with 280 hp vs. 258. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the base model. A 6-speed manual is standard on the S, optional on the base. A 5-speed automatic with manual-shift capability via steering-wheel buttons is optional on both. ABS is standard, as is the previously optional antiskid/traction control. Base models trade standard 16-inch wheels for 17s and are available with the 18s standard on the S; 19s are optional on both. Front torso side airbags are included, as are head-protecting side airbags that deploy from the doors. Options include leather upholstery and a navigation system. An available Sport Chrono Package includes a dashboard stopwatch and controls that modify throttle, traction, and suspension systems to suit racetrack-type driving. Also optional is Porsche's Active Suspension Management with normal and sport settings. The S is available with ceramic composite brakes. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buy is the Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include the BMW Z4, Chrysler Crossfire, and Mercedes-Benz CLK.