Porsche unveils the new 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S in Singapore

Two decades after the Boxster model range first debuted in 1996, Porsche has launched the latest generation of its mid-engine roadsters the 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S in Singapore.

The new 718 Boxster has been given a broader front fascia, thanks to the horizontal geometry of the air intakes, adding a sense of dynamism and power. It also gets newly-designed bi-xenon head lights with integrated LED daytime running lights, with full LED headlamps as an option. 

From the side, the car's large wheel arches and doors are contoured to direct headwind into the air intakes for the newly-developed turbocharged engines. New 19-inch wheels come as standard, while 20-inch ones are available as an option.

The rear of the new 718 Boxster has also been restyled. It now features cleanly-defined lines with a 'Porsche' badge sitting in between two slim taillights, as seen on the 911. Connected by a solid accent trim, these elements work together to add width and prowess to the sleek overall silhouette. 

A quintessential Boxster characteristic, the fabric roof can be opened and closed in just nine seconds for up to speeds of 50km/h.

The primary centrepiece of the new 718 Boxster model range, however, is the newly-developed turbocharged flat-four engine. Replacing the naturally-aspirated flat-six with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, the 718 Boxster delivers 300bhp and 380Nm of torque, while the 718 Boxster S employs a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry that generates 350bhp and 420Nm of torque from its 2.5-litre powerplant. 

If you choose the seven-speed twin-clutch PDK transmission with the Sports Chrono Package, your Boxster will go from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds; that's 0.8 seconds faster than its predecessor. The Boxster S on the other hand, goes from 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds with the same equipment. 

The new engines not only deliver greater performance than the previous generation, they are also up to 14 percent more efficient than their predecessors. The 718 Boxster claims a fuel consumption figure of 14.5km/L, while the Boxster S does 13.7km/L - that's a 2.2km/L and 1.5km/L improvement over their outgoing models, respectively.

Additionally, the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is available as an option and lowers the ride height by 10mm, keeping you close to the ground for a more visceral and spirited drive at high speeds. If you want to get even closer to the action, opt for the 718 Boxster S as it comes with the new optional PASM sport chassis that lowers the ride height by 20mm.

Price as of press time (excluding COE)

Porsche 718 Boxster PDK 2.0 (A) - $258,788
Porsche 718 Boxster S PDK 2.5 (A) - $316,588