First Drive Review
The problem is always the onions. Or maybe the green peppers. Not usually the pepperoni, but if you have vegetarians around, well…just try to order a supreme pizza to share with more than two people and someone will raise a fuss. Although no one should object to Porsche’s mid-engine models’ getting an extra 15 horses, we do take issue with the front fascia of the new Boxster supreme.
Shared with the GTS-trimmed Cayman, the new face is too aggressive. A pair of gaping, squarish air intakes spoil the taper of the hood and the cascade of the headlights on what is arguably the prettier of these fraternal twins. But you don’t have to look at the nose of the 2015 Boxster GTS when you’re driving it, and the little cosmetic changes—the black trim, the fake suede, the headrest embroidery—are just breadsticks and a side salad anyway.
Carbing Up
The main course is a Boxster S, with its engine computer reprogrammed to make 330 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Porsche’s Sport Chrono package with dynamic engine mounts is included, along with the Porsche Active Suspension Management adaptive damper system, sport exhaust, and 20-inch wheels. Slide behind the wheel, turn the little car-shaped fob with your left hand, and when the 3.4-liter flat-six rumbles to life, you’ll hear the best argument that your $74,495 was not misspent. Porsche’s sound symposer now amplifies the burble of uncombusted fuel that accompanies hotshoeing the GTS. Whether or not you can feel the five-percent power boost, your ears will certainly hear it.
The Boxster has always offered a full sensory experience, and the GTS is no different. With the top down, your range of vision expands to match the high resolution of the chassis, feeding back enough detail through the seat and electrically assisted steering that even at slow speeds the car feels fast and fun. Go quicker, and the Boxster just says more, but always in a reassuring tone: “I am helping to make you a better driver. Now, go glide around that hairpin like a dust mop on a hardwood floor.”
Such a Deal
If the Boxster S is the closest thing to sports-car perfection—on most days, an idea we wouldn’t disagree with—it only makes sense that the GTS comes closer. It still has useless cup holders, and there’s no place in the center console to put your phone, ergonomic issues that will befuddle the Germans long after Porsches are powered by cold fusion. The standard GTS spec works out to roughly $15,000 in à la carte equipment for the $10,200 premium over a stripped Boxster S, although the entirety of Porsche’s options list is also available. So spoil the recipe if you must, but ordering a GTS straight up from the menu will get you a fairly gourmet pie.
