Top Gear won't be the same without Jeremy Clarkson, however I will be looking forward to what his show on Amazon will be like. When two powerhouses come together like that it only means good things for them and for us, for us a 718 properly tested should be in the books.
Top Gear Porsche 718 Boxster Passenger Ride Review
Last month, Porsche gathered a group of journalists for a test ride of the new 718 Boxster and Ollie Kew was lucky enough to ride shotgun next to one of Porsche’s development drivers.
Before the fun part of the day begins, the journalists are treated to a technical slide show from Porsche’s chief boxer engine technicians, Dr Moritz Martiny. The slideshow emphasizes the 718 Boxster’s efficiency, performance and emotion. Of note was the vehicle’s start-start system that cuts the motor when you’re coasting to a stop at 4mph for additional fuel savings.
Once they’re released from class, Ollie made a beeline for the 2.5-liter turbo’d flat-four 718 Boxster S to experience its 350 horsepower first hand. All of the vehicles were pre-production models with black wraps and his S model was equipped with the sports exhaust, steel brakes and the 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK).
Though it doesn’t sound the same as its predecessor’s flat-sixes, the engine noise is still enjoyable without all the turbo whoosh and whistle. Not just sound and fury, the 718 Boxster actually has quite a bit of power. It’s exceedingly fast for an entry-level Porsche that slots right above the 718 Cayman with great handling and grip. All 345 horses are used at 6500rpm but after that, the delivery goes flat even though you can rev the car up to 7500rpm.
As for the non-S Boxster, while it’s still fast it loses some of the edge without the sports exhaust and the difference was heard inside the car.
We could be reading a drive review from Top Gear soon when the 718 Boxster reaches European showrooms in April.
