2017 Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman

Ever since they hit the road 20 years ago, we’ve loved slipping into the two-seats only of a Porsche Boxster. And, the 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster stirs those emotions even more. 

With a new generation comes a new name… which is a tribute to the flat-four cylinder mid-engine Porsche 718 sports car known for winning races back in the late 50s and early 1960s. And, everything has improved over time…more power, more fuel efficiency and far better handling for this 718. 

How much more power? Output is boosted by 35… generating a round 300 horsepower. Stepping up to the Boxster S unleashes 50-more, that’s just part of what made this a dream drive… when we tested its hard top twin the 718 Cayman…

GREG CARLOSS: “So one advantage of turbo charging the engine is you get the power that torque a lot earlier and the 0-60 times drop. You’re now in the low 4’s if you go for an S Version. Some other newness that comes with the 2017 718 Cayman or Boxster is the steering rack. They pulled this directly out of the 911 turbo. It’s 10% quicker. I’ll be honest with you, I can’t really discern 10% from the older version, but it’s really really good quick direct, exactly what I remember from the previous Cayman.”

Expectedly the 718 Boxster and Cayman also boast upsized brakes and a completely re-worked suspension. But for all that brawn… this is also a beauty… and pure Porsche style from end to end with engaging refinements. 

Designers resculpted the front fascia… and included larger air intakes.  LEDs light the way during the day… for the first time full LED’s at night are available. The redesigned taillights also glow from LEDs. One thing you might miss…exterior door handles are now smoothly integrated into the sheet metal.

The 2017 Porsche Boxster 718 and 718 Caymen are available now. Prices start at $56,000 for the Boxster, and about $2,000 less if you go for the Cayman.