My-Dream-Cars reviews Porsche Boxster

The Porsche Boxster is a 2-door, 2-passenger convertible sports car, available in two trims, the Convertible and the S. The Convertible is equipped with a standard 2.7-liter, H6, 245-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, and a 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive are optional. The S is equipped with a standard 3.4-liter, H6, 295-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

Design-concept
The design concept that was shown at Detroit was a direct expression of the original mid-engine Porsche roadster, the legendary 550 Spyder.  In the mid-1950s, the Porsche 550 practically rewrote the rules of high performance, becoming one of the most successful racing cars of its time. It didn’t have the biggest engine, nor was it the most costly sports car of its era. What it had was innovation, pure and simple.

The idea of locating a compact, freerevving engine midship gave the Porsche a nimbleness no sports car had ever possessed. The Spyder didn’t have to outmuscle its competitors. It could outbrake, outmaneuver and outsmart them. The Boxster shares this boldly intelligent approach to sports car design. Within an open-top, twoseater layout sits a mid-mounted, flat-six boxer engine, its low center of gravity helping to instill driving confidence through the corners.

Design-philosophy
There is no shortage of intellectual exchange taking place at the Porsche design studios in Weissach, Germany.

Every alternation proposed must be rationalized, held up to the ideal that form must follow function.Since the time of its inauguration, a litany of significant enhancements has been made to the Boxster’s celebrated form—each of them at once faithful to its heritage, firmly rooted in functionality and unlike anything else on the road.

Design-aerodynamics

Porsche, it’s not simply a matter of styling shapes that shear the least resistant path through air. Wind is an important ally in our incessant effort to elevate performance. As well as an essential element of the Boxster’s character. Every line, every curve and every carefully chiseled detail play a vital role in shaping, shifting and refining the flow of air.  Charge into the wind, and the Boxster’s prominent front air ducts pass generous amounts of cool air to the engine’s radiators.

Then, directional spoilers channel it to the next assignment: brake cooling. Large intakes on the rear quarter panels feed even more cooling air to the flat-six engine. The air that flows over the car arcs down the sloping rear deck, applying downforce to a rear spoiler that extends at speeds above 75 mph for crisp handling and high-speed stability.

Less visible, but no less important, is a smooth underbody design that keeps air gliding beneath the car, creating a “ground effects” stream that reduces lift and drag while simultaneously venting stagnant air around the gearbox. So where does this synergy of new thinking and original Porsche essence lead? To improved braking and steering. Unflinching straightline performance. A low 0.29 drag coefficient (Boxster) and a top track speed of 169 mph (Boxster S). All of which proves that, when engineered properly, form not only follows function, but intensifies it as well.

Performance
Both Boxster models are powered by new, more potent six-cylinder “boxer” engines with four-valve cylinder heads. That smooth scream you hear each time you prod the throttle is the spirited response of an engine designed to breathe deeply.

Call it lung capacity—the Boxster engine is designed to push large volumes of air into and out of the engine quickly and efficiently, with each cycle producing an emphatic power stroke. A Porsche-optimized exhaust system also enhances the car’s breathing and, ultimately, its performance. The latest Motronic ME 7.8 engine management system uses a host of sophisticated technologies first proven on the Porsche 911 Turbo to optimize induction, valve timing, ignition and fuel injection. The result: a maximum of 295 hp on the Boxster S and 245 hp on the standard Boxster model. The newly designed two-stage resonance intake manifold helps ensure high levels of torque, even at lower speeds. A partition wall running along the length of the twin-branch distribution pipe makes the 6-cylinder engine behave like two 3-cylinder engines running in parallel in the low-rev range for improved torque at lower speeds.

The distribution pipe flap opens at higher engine speeds for improved breathing. As a result, maximum torque output is now 201 lb.-ft. on the Boxster and 251 lb.-ft. on the Boxster S, with generous amounts in reserve—and readily accessible— across a broad rpm range. Both engine variants are built with lightweight aluminum alloys that strengthen key components while shaving performance-numbing weight. The crankshaft is forged, and runs in seven main bearings. On the Boxster, the bearing bridge is made entirely of aluminum. The higher engine temperatures on the Boxster S require another approach: an ingenious mix of aluminum and cast iron. An additional benefit? The reduction in engine noise. That throttle you’ve been blipping? It’s electronic—every prodding is digitally tied to an uprated Motronic ME 7.8 engine management system for a throttle response that is instantaneous.

Five Speed Manual Gear Box

Is there anything that feels as right as executing a gear change in a Porsche Boxster? It’s a feeling engineered in the Boxster to jumpstart your pulse rate each time your right hand makes its move.  Rapid gearshifts on both models are achieved with a short-throw mechanism offering a 26% (five-speed) and 15% (six-speed) reduction in gear-lever travel from that of previous models. The 2.7-liter Boxster is equipped with a lightweight five-speed manual gearbox that balances ratios to match the car’s specific engine characteristics. As an alternative, the optional Sport package uses a high-performance, six-speed manual gearbox with the Porsche Active Suspension Management.  The Boxster S comes standard with this revised six-speed unit.

Steering
The skillful integration of chassis and steering has always made the Boxster the epitome of point-andshoot driving. Both models feature the latest generation of hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion steering.

With its direct action and sensitive response, it is the ideal system for a high-performance sports car.  The steering gear features a variable-steering ratio. Negotiate a slow hairpin curve, for example, and the benefits of the system are delightfully obvious. Maneuverability at low speeds requires only a light touch. At higher speeds, where stability is more critical, steering input requires a heavier hand. Feedback from the front wheels is detailed and precise, enabling near-perfect communication between the driver and the road.

Wheels
The evolution of the Boxster even extends to the design of its wheels.  Progressively larger contact patches between rubber and road ensure a better grip and improved ride comfort.

The Boxster’s 17-inch wheel features a distinctive and aerodynamically engineered fivespoke design. On the Boxster S, the diameter is increased to a generous 18 inches. A further range of 18- and 19-inch wheels is available as optional equipment. All wheels come with anti-theft protection.

COMFORT

Porsche Communication Management
A sophisticated entertainment and navigation system called Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is available as an option on both Boxster models. With PCM, many of the Boxster’s advanced audio, navigation and timing features are seamlessly integrated, allowing you to concentrate on the rewards and responsibilities of driving. PCM’s high-resolution 5.8-inch color display offers a clear interface and intuitive operation. Rotary controls with a push-button “enter” function allow the driver or passenger to quickly navigate menus for easy access to all radio, CD, sound system, navigation and onboard computer features.

Audio system : The PCM audio system features an MP3-compatible CD player that puts your favorite music close at hand. A dual-channel stereo with 20 FM and 20 AM presets allows you to lock in your favorite stations, while an advanced search feature lets you locate stations by format for matching music to your mood. To ensure optimum FM reception, four radio antennae are discreetly embedded in the windshield glass on Boxsters equipped with PCM.

Navigation system : A navigation system is only useful if it helps you find what you’re looking for quickly and clearly.  The Boxster’s PCM system uses a DVD drive, located in the front luggage compartment, to provide quicker data retrieval (and, thus, faster route calculations) than that of similar CD-based systems.*  A DVD-based system also allows the center console’s CD drive to be devoted exclusively to audio discs. To get you on your way, the GPS navigation system lets you enter a street address or intersection, select your destination from a list of menus displayed by category, or simply point and click using the on-screen map. Verbal instructions and visual directions on PCM’s high-resolution display help guide you through each and every turn along the way. In a hurry? Select “quickest route.” Looking for the road less traveled? Choose a route that avoids tolls and freeways. Dynamic rerouting and tour planning are also included, with memory for up to 50 presets so you can quickly retrieve the information at the press of a button.

Extended Navigation System : The optionally available Extended Navigation System for the PCM system permits navigation along a predefined route (back-trace navigation), as well as navigation in regions for which no data is available on your navigation DVD (using a compass function and GPS).

Onboard computer : The Boxster comes standard with an onboard computer offering a wide range of information: average fuel consumption, average speed, range until empty, and more. The PCM system puts an even wider range of data at your fingertips. The onboard computer can easily be programmed by the driver to emit a speed-limit warning signal, and the control stalk on the side of the steering wheel can also be used to access timing functions on the Boxster’s optional Sport Chrono Package or Sport Chrono Package Plus.

Electronic logbook : An optional electronic logbook is now available for the PCM system. The electronic logbook permits the automatic logging of the current mileage, distance covered, date and time, as well as the start and destination address for every trip. After extracting the logbooks from the PCM, the data can be easily evaluated at home with the supplied PC software.

Hands-free mobile phone : An optional mobile phone module offers the enhanced safety and convenience of hands-free calling.  The phone’s 12-digit keypad on the center console can also be used to operate the performance display and the personal memory feature of another optional module: the Sport Chrono Package Plus.

Porsche CDC-4 CD autochanger : Both Boxster models come prewired for an optional 6-disc CD autochanger. The system installs neatly inside the trunk and features a digital anti-shock memory that all but eliminates skipping, using a “rolling cache” that stores several seconds’ worth of music before it actually plays. *If the temperature in the luggage compartment is likely to exceed 185 F, the functioning of the DVD drive—and, thus, the navigation system—may be temporarily impaired. To eliminate this risk, the luggage compartment can be fitted with a dedicated cooling system.

BOSE Surround Sound System
Both the Boxster and the Boxster S can be equipped with the ultimate audio experience—an optional Bose® Surround Sound System developed jointly by Porsche and Bose engineers. A system of 11 loudspeakers—including an active subwoofer with an additional100 watts of power—provides a panoramic soundstage for both seat positions. Driver and passenger enjoy balanced stereo with lifelike sound reproduction. With Bose Surround Sound, you’ll hear music as you’ve never heard it before. Bass notes are deeper and more resonant. Midrange tones are full and rich. The highs are crisp and bright. It’s truly as if you were sitting front and center at a live concert performance.

The Bose System’s electronics include a seven-channel MOSTbased digital amplifier, featuring 5 x 25-watt linear amps and a single 100-watt switching unit.  AudioPilot® noise compensation technology monitors road speed and ambient noise in the cockpit, making automatic adjustments on the fly to maintain a clearer and more consistent sound with no need for manual adjustment. Active equalization matches all sound output to the unique acoustics of the Boxster interior.  The realistic sound extends across the entire frequency spectrum and can be enjoyed equally by both driver and passenger. The Bose System’s dynamic loudness technology actively compensates for the reduced sensitivity of the human ear at lower frequencies by enhancing low-volume sounds that go unnoticed with other systems. At the front and rear of the Boxster interior, the Bose Surround Sound System uses independent channels to generate a push-button panorama of space and sound. The extraordinary sense of depth is created by patented Bose Signal Processing (BSP). Centerpoint® technology can even split stereo recordings into five separate channels.

Convertible Top / Hardtop
The Boxster’s convertible top is perfectly matched to the car’s exterior design. Similar in shape to the optional aluminum hardtop, it requires a scant 12 seconds to open or close. Better yet, it can be operated on the move at speeds of approximately 30 mph.

The convertible top’s heated glass window is extremely wear-resistant.  It also offers consistent visibility in all weather conditions. The top itself is made from a tough, colorfast fabric, which is specially protected against ultraviolet light. A zig-zag folding action protects the interior roof lining when the top is stowed away. The interior is lined with a stylish and practical sound-insulating fabric that reduces interior noise. The entire Cabriolet top structure is extremely lightweight, enhancing the Boxster’s agility. Four distinct colors are available to complement the exterior: Black, Stone Grey, Cocoa Brown and Metropol Blue.

Hardtop : An optional hardtop is styled to match the Boxster’s elegant lines.  The shell is made from a robust aluminum, resulting in a total weight of just 51 lbs. (23 kg). Riveted construction ensures a greater dimensional stability than that of conventional welding techniques, while a heated rear glass window offers optimum visibility in all weather conditions.

Seat

Left picture: Electrically adjustable seat; central picture: Adaptive sports seat; right picture: Sports bucket seat

Boxster seats : The standard seats in both Boxster models are upholstered in Leather. Special features include thorax airbags in each seat backrest, enhanced lateral support, and a spring system that is specially adapted to the revised Boxster chassis. High sidebolsters provide optimum support without any sense of restriction.  The backrest angle is electrically controlled, while the fore/aft position and seat height are manually adjustable. An optional feature allows full electric adjustment of fore/aft position, height, backrest angle, squab angle and lumbar support.  A memory function stores your seat and lumbar support settings, along with exterior mirror positions. Two sets of preferences can be stored and selected using buttons on the door. A further set of preferences can be stored in each of the two key remotes. When either of the remotes is used to open the doors, the corresponding settings are automatically selected.

Sports Seats : The optional Leather Sports Seats are more firmly upholstered than the standard Boxster seats. Higher side bolsters on the backrest and squab provide additional lateral support. The fore/aft position and height are mechanically adjustable, while the backrest is  electronically controlled for ease of use.

Adaptive Sports Seats : Another seating option offers a full range of power adjustment to the Sports Seats: fore/aft position, height, backrest angle, seat angle and lumbar support. The pneumatically adjustable side bolsters on the backrest and squab provide precision support during high-performance driving, as well as comfortable longdistance cruising. A memory function stores all seat settings (except for the side bolsters) as well as exterior mirror positions.

Sports bucket seats : For an even more sporty ride, choose the new sports bucket seat with folding backrest, integrated thorax airbag and manual reach adjustment. The bucket seat is made from glass and carbon fiber reinforced synthetic material with a carbon-look finish. One unique feature is that the rotation points of the backrest are high in the sides. This gives side support to the pelvic region characteristic of racing car seats. The sports bucket seats also offer significant weight savings over the Sport Seat and the Adaptive Sport Seat (15.4lbs and 19.8lbs respectively). The upholstery is available in all leather types and colors offered.

INTERIOR

In the Boxster, the interface between car and driver, so central to the satisfaction derived from driving a Porsche, has been further developed. As always, the instruments and controls are designed to facilitate fluent communication with the driver. But it is the seat design, coupled with the steering wheel, where you will immediately sense the refinement of the newest generation of Boxster.

The seats offer excellent lateral support as well as a wide range of adjustment options. Cockpit space has been significantly improved by extending the fore/aft travel. The raceinspired pedals are now closer to the front bulkhead, enabling easy access for taller drivers. To match this additional legroom, the steering wheel design features height and reach adjustment.

Instrument
The instrument cluster of a Porsche is a design classic, reinterpreted in each successive sports car as Porsche designers seek to integrate new technologies with time-honored ergonomic edicts. Of course, technological advances have never superseded the elegant simplicity of one original design idea—a set of large, round dials neatly clustered for optimum legibility.

Both Boxster models feature an intelligent, modern-day interpretation of the classic Porsche instrument cluster. The three-dial grouping forms an integral part of the redesigned interior. The dials themselves—trimmed in black on the Boxster and light grey on the Boxster S—are combined with an onboard computer to feed you the information you deem most necessary, at a glance. In addition to the data you’d normally expect to find on these dials (speed, odometer, etc.), the integrated computer displays also reveal information ranging from the current radio station or CD track to the driving range remaining until the fuel tank is empty.

Steering wheel
A Porsche steering wheel is where an intimate dialogue between car and driver takes place. The feel and functionality of the wheel are a matter of personal preference, a fact recognized in the Boxster.

Three distinct steering wheels are offered, all based on a threespoke design that houses a full-size airbag—and is adjustable for both height and reach. On cars equipped with the optional twin Tiptronic S transmission, the wheel places gear-change shifters at your fingertips as well. As an option on the steering wheel rim and airbag module, you can order Smooth-Finish Leather.  Or you can specify the optional three-spoke Sports or Multifunction steering wheels. The latter of the two has a set of six keys, offering direct access to audio, navigation and—if fitted with PCM—telephone functions.

Audio Systems
The Boxster audio system offers exceptional sound reproduction.  Two high-range speakers on the dashboard, two low-range speakers in the doors and two 25-watt amps give audiophiles a superior starting point for complementing the aural delights of the flat-six engine’s exhaust note at speed.

CDR-24 CD radio : Both the Boxster and Boxster S are equipped with a CDR-24 CD radio as standard. The radio features RDS two-tuner frequency diversity. This technology uses one FM tuner to play the selected station, while the other constantly seeks out a stronger signal.  The result is optimum reception at all times. With 20 FM and 10 AM presets to choose from, switching between your favorite radio stations is easy. And a feature called Dynamic Autostore searches the airwaves as you drive, scanning for the nine strongest signals. Other features include speed-dependent volume control, an improved nighttime display, and an elegant front panel that harmonizes with the revised interior.

MOST bus technology : Onboard audio and communication systems are integrated using high-speed fiber optics known as Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST®). An essential prerequisite for advanced audio quality, the MOST digital bus links together data from the CD autochanger, Bose Surround Sound System amps and PCM telephone module.  The benefit of a fiber-optic bus is a significant improvement in sound reproduction—and a more vivid listening experience.

Porsche Sound Package Plus : Want more power, more speakers and more storage for your music CDs? No problem. Porsche Sound Package Plus offers a series of seven loudspeakers, powered by additional amplifiers. Available as on option on both Boxster models, Porsche Sound Package Plus combines a 2 x 25-watt amplifier unit with an external analog system for the low- and midrange speakers (2 x 70 and 40 watts, respectively). The seven loudspeakers adapt the system’s prodigious output to the interior’s unique acoustics. Volume and tone are controlled using the sound menu options in the CDR-24 CD radio or optional PCM system. A loudness function enhances the bass and treble frequencies at lower volume levels, while a speed-dependent volume control compensates for road noise to ensure a robust and rewarding listening experience. For added convenience, this package also includes a CD storage tray designed to fit inside the glove compartment.

STORAGE/LUGGAGE

One of the key design aims of the Boxster interior is intelligent use of space. Storage compartments are generous in size and show careful attention to detail and convenience throughout. The main storage areas are in the front section of the center console and the lockable glove compartment on the passenger side, which includes CD storage on vehicles with an optional sound system.

Another compartment is located between the two seats, with a storage box on the rear bulkhead, offering additional loadspace on vehicles fitted with an optional wind deflector (but without Bose Surround Sound System). Other practical features include storage bins in each of the doors, and a pair of retractable cupholders above the glove compartment.

Luggage compartments : Among the many practical benefits of a mid-engine layout is a second luggage compartment. Measuring approximately 4.90 cubic feet in front and 4.60 cubic feet in back, both carpet-lined trunks are fully accessible, even when the convertible top is lowered.  The front luggage compartment accommodates the large aluminum trolley from the Porsche Travel System, leaving space for a Porsche golf bag at the rear.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

“Welcome Home” lighting : This standard function provides automatic illumination of the fog lights and taillights when the doors are locked or unlocked using the key remote. As the name suggests, it is particularly convenient when returning home after dark.

HomeLink.® : This standard garage door opener is located in the cockpit roof console, where it offers remotecontrol opening for up to three garage doors. It can also be used with compatible home-lighting systems or alarms.

ParkAssist : ParkAssist is an optional feature that is automatically enabled whenever you select reverse gear.  Four sensors integrated into the rear bumper gauge distances to stationary objects, triggering a warning signal that increases in frequency as objects draw nearer to the back of your car.

Climate control : In addition to the standard climate control, both the Boxster and Boxster S models offer an optional fully automatic climate control system. The system offers set-itand-forget-it functionality. Choose your ideal temperature and the system works to cool or heat the cabin as needed to maintain your setting. A solar sensor compensates for the effects of ambient light.

Water-repellent side windows : The side window glass on both Boxster models features a waterrepellent finish. By rapidly dispersing moisture and dirt, it ensures optimum visibility in wet conditions. Depending on vehicle usage, the surface finish may require occasional renewal.

Wiper system : When not in use, the twin wiper arms retreat behind the luggage compartment lid, preserving the car’s performance-minded aerodynamics. The right-hand blade uses a bowed design to achieve maximum wiper coverage, while the windshield washer system features two heated twin-nozzle jets with integrated filter elements. The front wiper system of the Boxster include an adjustable interval setting so you can dial in the wiper speed that’s perfect for clearing rain from the windshield. An optional rain sensor is also available. In conjunction with the automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors, it offers the most intelligent way for your Boxster to adapt to changing weather and light conditions.

SAFETY
Braking System
The lively horsepower of both the Boxster and Boxster S engines is countered by braking power that is still more than equal to the task.  In fact, braking power is several times greater than the power output of the engine. Both Boxster models use fourpiston, monobloc, aluminum fixed calipers at the front and rear.

Stronger, lighter and more compact, the four-piston aluminum monoblocs give the Boxster an easy and immediate pedal response, assisted by a new vacuum brake booster.  The calipers on the Boxster have a black anodized finish, while those on the Boxster S are painted red.Cross-drilled, internally vented brake discs on both Boxster models offer optimum cooling and excellent wet-weather performance.  Air from the front of the car is channeled to every part of each brake assembly, helping lower brake temperatures even further for higher levels of fade-resistant performance and durability.

PSM
Both Boxster models are equipped with Porsche Stability  Management (PSM) as standard. While it cannot overcome the laws of physics, PSM can provide additional control in difficult driving scenarios.

Here’s how it works: When the Boxster is in motion, PSM monitors the car’s direction, speed, yaw velocity (speed of rotation around the vertical axis) and lateral acceleration. Based on this information, it can then calculate the actual direction of travel. If your Boxster begins to oversteer or understeer, PSM applies selective braking on the individual wheels to help bring it back into line. If the wheel approaches the threshold of skidding under braking, PSM uses a modified ABS to shorten the braking distance. If you’re accelerating on wet or other low-grip surfaces, PSM uses the integrated ABD (Automatic Brake Differential) and ASR (Anti- Slip Regulation) functions to help maintain traction and stability. When Sport mode is selected on the optional Sport Chrono Package, the PSM threshold is higher, allowing greater driver involvement. If you’d rather enjoy your Boxster unassisted, the system can be set to standby at any time. To enhance your safety, PSM remains present in the background and will only intervene under heavy braking, where both front wheels are being controlled by ABS. All PSM inputs are more restrained and more precise, thus preserving the natural agility of the car.  Although driving in a safe and prudent manner is the driver’s ultimate responsibility, PSM does provide an extra margin of safety whenever you need it most.

Airbags

Sophisticated airbag safety comes standard on both Boxster models.  Two full-size Advanced Airbags in front offer optimum upper-body protection, even with the top down. A weight sensor in the passenger seat automatically switches this airbag off when the seat is unoccupied or fitted with a child seat. Augmenting the full-size airbags is a Porsche Side Impact Protection (POSIP) system with dual side airbags. Designed for the unique requirements of open-air driving, they extend the normal shoulder protection to the head and chest areas. All six airbags are deployed using an organic-based propellant that makes them lighter, more compact and easier to recycle.

Passive Safety

Beneath the Boxster’s taut skin lie layers of race-inspired engineering, designed to absorb the energy of a collision and protect the occupants with computer-calculated precision. The front of the car is bolstered by a labyrinth of transverse and longitudinal support beams. Three separate load-bearing levels help channel impact forces around the passenger cell. For added safety, the fuel tank and fuel lines are also positioned outside of the deformation area. The vehicle’s rigid shell structure is reinforced by stiff body panels forged from two-sided galvanized steel. The doors, an area particularly exposed to impact forces, are reinforced with advanced alloys such as Boron steel—so strong, it can only be shaped when it is in a molten state.

Rollover safety
In the unlikely event of a rollover, supplemental safety bars made of high-tensile stainless steel combine with robust steel tubes fitting into the windshield frame to offer a level of protection so effective, it even satisfies the more stringent requirements demanded of coupes.For easy accessibility and greater comfort, the upper seat-belt anchor points are mounted on the supplemental safety bars. Both three-point belts have integrated force limiters and pretensioners.

Lighting System
Bi-Xenon lighting system with headlamp cleaning

The optional Bi-Xenon lighting system gives the Boxster vision at night that’s as purposeful as the car itself. In low-beam mode, the system offers wider, brighter and more consistent illumination than that of conventional headlamps.  Xenon’s brilliant blue-white light is virtually identical to the wavelength of daylight, which offers a greater depth of color and helps reduce eye strain. To emit a consistent beam of light and prevent the dazzling of oncoming traffic, the system is designed with integrated headlamp cleaning and dynamic headlamp leveling that automatically adjusts the beams to compensate for changes in vehicle attitude during acceleration or braking.

Anti-theft Protection

An intelligent alarm system that couples exterior monitoring with radar-based interior surveillance protects your Boxster against break-in or theft. The alarm is enabled whenever the doors are locked using the Boxster’s key remote. The interior radar does not engage if the convertible top is lowered. An electronic immobilizer is also used to protect the car from theft. Remove the key from the ignition, and the immobilizer automatically engages until you reinsert the key. Lose your key? It can be canceled like a credit card so that no one else can use it. To ensure easy access to the cockpit in the event of an accident, all of the locks are automatically released if any of the airbags are deployed.

ENVIRONMENT
Emission Control System

To maximize efficiency, the engine’s powerful combustion is controlled by the latest Motronic ME 7.8 engine management system. Each bank of cylinders features a dedicated Lambda circuit for a more accurate adjustment of the air/fuel mix. A second pair of Lambda sensors, one for each exhaust, then monitors the performance of the catalytic converters. As well as improving the car’s fuel consumption, each of these systems ensures full compliance with the stringent TIER 2 exhaust emissions standards of the United States EPA.

Materials and Recycling

All structural elements, switches and trim material in the Boxster are made from fully recyclable materials. Better still, it’s likely your Boxster may never need recycling at all. After all, more than 60% of all Porsches ever produced since 1948 are still on the road today. This remarkable record of durability is fundamental to our environmental approach.  Like every Porsche, both Boxster models are entirely free of CFCs and components manufactured using these chemicals. Instead, a range of highly resilient yet lightweight plastics and metals is used extensively in the Boxster’s construction, with priority given to sustainable materials. The most important of these are galvanized sheet metal, recyclable synthetics and aluminum. Approximately 85% of all Boxster components can be recycled using today’s technology. To simplify recycling, all plastic components are clearly labeled in accordance with the relevant standards. Water-based paints are used to minimize solvent pollution during the manufacturing process.

My-Dream-Cars reviews Porsche Boxster