2008 Porsche Boxster: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Porsche Boxster is largely unchanged. These two-seat mid-engine convertibles share their basic designs with Porsche's Cayman hatchback coupe. Like the Cayman, Boxster has front and rear cargo compartments and horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engines. Boxster has a power folding soft top. Base and S trim levels are available. Base models have 245 hp from their 2.7-liter 6-cylinder, and S versions have 295 hp from their 3.4-liter engine. The limited edition RS 60 Spyder has a 303-hp version of the 3.4-liter engine, along with a performance suspension. Manual or automatic transmission is offered. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and side airbags that protect the head and torso. Options include a navigation system and Porsche's Sport Chrono Package with a dashboard stopwatch and sensors 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. Newly available are base and S Limited Edition models, which have specific interior and exterior trim.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buys are the BMW Z4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A5, Audi R8, and Audi TT.