Vehicle Tested
2013 Porsche Boxster S Convertible (3.4L 6-cyl. 6-speed Manual)
Driven On
7/17/2012
Ratings Summary
Perhaps the Boxster's biggest strength is its ability to retain a superb ride while offering world class response and handling. Chassis improvements mean it's a dedicated sports car that now even those with sensitive backsides can drive all day. And it's a convertible.
B
Performance
This is where the Boxster truly shines. Not just quick in a straight line, its handling abilities are downright amazing, including 1.0g of lateral acceleration around the skid pad.
| Acceleration |
B
|
Not as quick as the 911 down a drag strip but darned close. Easy shifter with intuitive clutch takeup. It is hampered somewhat by a very tall 1st gear. |
| Braking |
A
|
Solid pedal feel and ultra-consistent stops. Distances were short, too. |
| Steering |
B
|
This electric-assist system lacks some feel compared to the previous Boxster's hydraulically assisted steering. But we still found it to be very precise at speed. |
| Handling |
A
|
Stunning dynamic abilities thanks to the Boxster's optimized packaging which consists of a low, center-mounted engine. It provides more confidence than the 911. |
| Driveability |
B
|
With the exception of the tall 1st gear, drivability is very good. This is an easy car to drive, whether puttering around town or pushing the limits down a canyon road. |
B
Comfort
Overall the Boxster S strikes a remarkable balance between handling and ride comfort. You can largely thank its adjustable dampers. You won't ever forget it's a sports car, but it's certainly one you could drive every day.
| Seating Comfort |
C
|
The firm and well-bolstered sport seats hold you in place during cornering. But we found ourselves squirming after just an hour's drive. |
| Ride Comfort |
B
|
As you expect of a sports car, the ride is firm and very controlled. But it's also one that's easily tolerated for everday driving. |
| Quietness |
B
|
Average noise performance. The Boxster is adequately quiet and the noises you do hear are almost all good ones, like a howling intake and glorious exhaust note. |
B
Interior
Porsche does interiors right. With a lot of functionality comes a lot of controls, although they're well organized. The smallish buttons and switchgear are immensely precise and everything inside the Boxster utilizes high-end materials.
| Ergonomics |
B
|
Most controls follow industry standards and are well located and easy to use. We dislike the electric parking brake, which is operated by a button near the driver's left knee. |
| Ingress/Egress |
B
|
Like most roadsters, the Boxster is low, which means getting in and out requires more work than an SUV. It's worth it. Plus, the sills are relatively narrow for a sports car. |
| Space/Room |
C
|
There's a definite sense of being surrounded when you're in the Boxster, even when the top is down. In this regard it doesn't give you as much of that true convertible feeling. |
| Visibility |
D
|
Visibility isn't very good top up or down, but it's definitely worse with the top up. Especially the rear three-quarter view for changing lanes. |
| Cargo/Storage |
B
|
Front and rear storage are modest, but together there's more than enough for weekend trips. It's impressive for a mid-engine car. The fold-out cupholders are beyond pathetic. |
| Convertible Top |
A
|
It takes less than 10 seconds to raise or lower the top. And it can be done at speeds up to 31 mph. |
B
Value
Unless you have a lot of extra means, it's hard to make a solid value statement for any Porsche. They're expensive. Period. But they're usually really good, too. The Boxster is no exception.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
B
|
Build quality is right up there with high-end luxury cars. Assembly quality is top-notch, although some materials could be better. |
| Features(vs. $) |
B
|
The Boxster has just about every option you could ever want available, and many more than some cars in this segment. But you'll pay dearly for those optional features. |
| Cost |
B
|
Porsche will never win a comparison test on price. You get what you pay for, though. Top-shelf performance and quality. |
| MPG |
C
|
The EPA rates the Boxster S with the six-speed manual at 20 city/28 highway/23 mpg combined. We weren't able to match the EPA numbers, but that isn't uncommon in sports cars. |
| Warranty |
B
|
The Boxster comes with an above-average warranty. The basic warranty and drivetrain are covered for 4 years/50,000 miles. |
| Ownership |
B
|
There's roadside assistance for 4 years/50,000 miles, but no free scheduled maintenance. |
B
Fun To Drive
It's hard to argue with a 315-hp roadster, especially if you live in a climate where you can regularly drop the top. The Boxster's handling and dynamic numbers are stunning. But more importantly, it's a blast to drive.
| Driving Experience |
B
|
With the ability to surprise just about any car on a back road, the Boxster S is a bit of a sleeper. It exudes world-class sports car in every sense. |
| Personality |
B
|
A true high-performance sports car disguised as the entry-level Porsche. In some ways, it's more enthusiast-oriented than its bigger brother, the 911. |
