2009 Porsche Boxster and Cayman
The Porsche Boxster gets more power and fresh styling for 2009.
Boxster and Cayman return in base and uplevel S versions with horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engines mounted behind 2-seat cockpits. Base models exchange a 2.7-liter powerplant for a lighter, reengineered 2.9-liter version with direct fuel injection to replace the previous, less-efficient multipoint system. As a result, the Boxster adds 10 horsepower to reach 255, while the Cayman gains 20 ponies for a total of 265. A similarly updated 3.4-liter engine lifts the Boxster S by 15 horses to 310; the Cayman S by 25 horsepower to 320.
All models now come with a 6-speed manual transmission, and the previously available 6-speed torque-converter automatic is ousted for Porsche's new 7-speed PDK transmission. PDK is short for "double-clutch gearbox" in German, so this is another automated-manual transmission that can be shifted by the driver or left to its own devices. Porsche claims PDK boosts fuel economy by up to eight percent over the conventional automatic and improves acceleration versus manual-transmission models, which can't be shifted as quickly. Other 2009 changes include wider wheels, exterior styling tweaks, minor interior revisions, and a performance-enhancing "launch control" function for the available Sport Chrono package. Standard features continue pretty much as before. Ditto a long and confusing list of options and packages, another Porsche hallmark.
The 2009 Porsche Boxster and Cayman go on sale next March. Prices will be announced a few weeks ahead of that.
Look for the new 2009 Porsche Cayman this spring.
For more information on hundreds of new cars of today and tomorrow, check out:
- L.A. Auto Show Home Page
- Consumer Guide's 2009 Auto Show coverage
- Consumer Guide New Car Reviews and Prices: Road test results, photos, specifications, and prices for hundreds of new cars, trucks, minivans, and SUVs from the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide.
- Consumer Guide's 2009 Best Buys and Recommendeds: Our Best Buy and Recommended picks focus on overall vehicle value and take into account performance, economy, reliability, ease of use, comfort, and price.
- Future Cars: Check out what's just on the horizon.
