2012 Porsche Boxster

The 2012 Boxster sports a longer platform thanks to the new Porsche 911. Of course, this is not unusual, as the vehicles manufactured by Porsche tend to evolve over time rather than change abruptly.

The 2012 Boxster's 255 hp, 2.9-liter, non-direct-injection, flat-six engine is nearly identical to last year's. There may be a slight power increase in the final production model, but overall specifications will remain the same. Transmission options will include a short-throw six-speed manual, or the new seven-speed dual-clutch PDK.

Specifications

The base 2012 Boxster features a mid-body, 2.9-liter, flat 6-cylinder, direct-injection engine that screams at 255 hp at 6400 RPM. The net torque is 214 foot-pounds at 4400 to 6000 RPM. The Boxster sports an overall length of 172.1-inches and a wheelbase of 95.1-inches. It keeps a low profile with a height of 50.9-inches, and a wide stance of 70.9-inches, which helps it hug the road. Corners are a non-issue with a power rack and pinion steering system and MacPherson struts. With a fuel tank capacity of 16.9-gallons and an EPA-estimated combined 22-MPG, the Boxster will definitely impress.Safety Features

Safety has always been a priority for Porsche, and the 2012 Boxster is brimming with safety technology that will protect you while you're driving. The Boxster provides an anti-roll protection system to help prevent rollovers. Three-point, chair-mounted safety harnesses keep you snug in your seat, and the front passenger airbag comes with a deactivation feature for smaller passengers. The Boxster also has side-impact airbags for both driver and passenger. Porsche Stability Management helps control speed, acceleration, direction, and yaw-dynamics if it detects that the vehicle is out of the control of the driver.

On the Inside

Quality has always been a hallmark of Porsche's interiors. The Boxster is no different. A three-spoke steering wheel branded with the Porsche logo sits in front of an instrument panel sporting race-style gauges. The cockpit is appointed in hand-detailed, stitched leather with brushed metal accents throughout. The dashboard melds beautifully into the rest of the interior, which gives the Porsche's cockpit a sleek elegance that matches the car's exterior.

Pricing and Style

The 2012 Boxster comes in three model styles: base convertible, S convertible, and Spyder convertible. The price ranges from $48,100 to $61,800, which places the Boxster within the budgets of many sports car enthusiasts.

Porsche has made evolutionary improvements to the Boxster for 2012. It has a lightweight body combined with a powerful engine. It lives up to its history in the speed and handling department, and is the perfect match for those who love the thrill of driving a European sports car, but may not want the steep price tag normally associated with those types of vehicles.