When Porsche renamed its Boxster the 718 Boxster back in 2017 and replaced the car's six-cylinder engine with a turbocharged four-cylinder, part of the connection to the 911 — something so intrinsic to the Porsche experience — was lost. There's nothing wrong with the four-cylinder 718's performance certainly, but the driving experience, especially with the top was down, lacked some all-important aural emotion.
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster





Total MSRP | $63,350 |
---|---|
What others are paying | $64,557 |
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster Review

- Precise and nimble handling delivers confidence and driving fun
- Sweet power and sound from the Boxster GTS 4.0's engine
- Take less than 10 seconds to open or close the roof
- Four-cylinder engines lack refinement, aural flair of optional six-cylinder
- Breadth of options allows personalization but gets pricey in a hurry
- GTS 4.0 debuts with a 394-horsepower 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine
- Spyder now available with the automatic transmission
- Limited-production 718 Boxster 25 Years celebrates the model's 25th anniversary
- Part of the fourth 718 Boxster generation introduced for 2017
When Porsche renamed its Boxster the 718 Boxster back in 2017 and replaced the car's six-cylinder engine with a turbocharged four-cylinder, part of the connection to the 911 — something so intrinsic to the Porsche experience — was lost. There's nothing wrong with the four-cylinder 718's performance certainly, but the driving experience, especially with the top down, lacks some all-important aural emotion.
Last year, Porsche moved to rectify the discrepancy with the reintroduction of the six-cylinder-powered 718 Spyder. For 2021, it's following it up with the 718 Boxster GTS 4.0. It has the same naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine as the Spyder, albeit with a bit less horsepower (394 horsepower compared to 414 hp). The Boxster GTS 4.0, though not inexpensive by any means, also offers good value for the standard equipment when compared to a similarly optioned-up S model.
To get the full GTS 4.0 experience, it's important to begin with the top down before starting the engine. With the twist of the left-hand mounted key, that familiar and evocative whir settles down into a slightly clattery idle. A brief prod of the throttle pedal sends the revs up and reminds you just how good a naturally aspirated flat six-cylinder engine sounds. Revving it out to its 7,800-rpm redline will give even the most cynical enthusiast the tingles.
The new GTS certainly boosts the appeal of the Boxster. It is, certainly, among the most enjoyable convertible sports cars you can buy. You could look at the BMW Z4 if you want something a little more comfortable, or perhaps the Corvette convertible for its V8 rumble and newfound mid-engine agility. Boost your budget and Porsche's 911 is in play. But for the quintessential top-down sports car experience, the 2021 718 Boxster is hard to beat.
Which 718 Boxster does Edmunds recommend?
Porsche 718 Boxster models
The 2021 718 Boxster roadster is available in six trim levels: the base Boxster, Boxster T, Boxster S, Boxster GTS 4.0, Boxster 25 Years and Boxster Spyder. All are rear-wheel-drive and come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (Porsche calls it PDK) is offered as an option. Feature highlights include:
718 Boxster
The base Boxster comes reasonably well equipped with:
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque)
- 18-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires
- Power-operated fabric convertible top
- Xenon headlights
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front seats with power backrest adjustment
- Partial leather upholstery
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Two USB ports
- Eight-speaker audio system
- Satellite radio
- Apple CarPlay smartphone integration
718 Boxster T
The Boxster T is a slightly sharper performance coupe and includes all of the base Boxster's features as well as:
- 20-inch wheels
- Variable-damping sport suspension lowered 20 millimeters
- Limited-slip differential and torque vectoring (can enhance traction and agility when accelerating or cornering)
- Sport Chrono package
- Lightweight nylon door handles
718 Boxster S
The Boxster S is similar to the base model but increases the performance quotient with:
- Turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (350 hp, 309 lb-ft)
- 19-inch alloy wheels
718 Boxster GTS 4.0
The new GTS 4.0 gets a similar array of performance upgrades as the Boxster T. It also has:
- Naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six-cylinder engine (394 hp, 309 lb-ft of torque or 317 lb-ft with the PDK)
- 20-inch wheels
- GTS-specific trim details
- Upgraded sport seats
Boxster 25 Years
This limited-edition Boxster pays homage to the original Boxster concept car from 1993. It's based on the GTS 4.0 but has:
- Copper-colored wheels and exterior trim
- Red fabric top and leather upholstery
- Full power-adjustable seats
718 Boxster Spyder
The Spyder goes all in with:
- Slight power bump for the flat-six engine (414 hp, 309 lb-ft)
- Adjustable sport suspension lowered 30 mm
- High-performance summer tires
- GT4-specific trim and styling details
- Manually operated lightweight convertible top
Porsche also offers a myriad of appearance, performance and technology options. Significant ones to consider include:
- LED headlights
- Ventilated seats
- Upgraded Bose or Burmester sound system
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Boxster and the car in front)
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)




2021 Porsche 718 Boxster pricing
in Ashburn, VA



Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster.
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster video
Porsche 718 Boxster GTS Test Track
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Porsche 718 Boxster, but since the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster Convertible Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $63,350
- MPG & Fuel
- 20 City / 26 Hwy / 22 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.2 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 2 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Engine
- Flat 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 300 hp @ 6500 rpm
- Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 1950 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 172.4 in. / Height: 50.4 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 78.5 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 3021 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 9.6 cu.ft.

Safety
Our experts’ favorite 718 Boxster safety features:
- Porsche Active Safe
- Detects stopped vehicles ahead, alerts the driver and brakes if necessary. Included with adaptive cruise control.
- Lane Change Assist
- Monitors the car's blind spot and signals the driver through lights at the base of the front roof pillars.
- Porsche Car Connect
- Uses your smartphone connection to alert emergency services automatically if there's an accident. Remote door locking is also included.
Porsche 718 Boxster vs. the competition

2021 Porsche 718 Boxster

2021 Chevrolet Corvette
Porsche 718 Boxster vs. Chevrolet Corvette
The mid-engine Corvette convertible is a worthy rival to the Boxster, with stirring performance and enough convenience to work as a daily driver. The Corvette handily beats the Boxster when it comes to price and power, but it doesn't feel as nimble around tight turns. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Chevrolet Corvette.
Porsche 718 Boxster vs. BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 is a well-balanced sports car with a lot to offer. It's spacious and quiet on the highway. The turbocharged six-cylinder engine in the Z4 M40i is strong and gets pretty good fuel economy too. Lower pricing is another Z4 advantage. The Boxster is the more special car, however. It's more engaging to drive and offers many more ways to customize it to your taste.
Porsche 718 Boxster vs. Jaguar F-Type
Jaguar has updated the 2021 F-Type with a new touchscreen interface and refreshed exterior styling. This sports car is at its best in the R version that comes with a supercharged 575-hp V8. It has standard all-wheel drive too, which could expand the car's usability in the winter. But you'll still want the Boxster if you prioritize nimble handling.
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster First Impressions
Convertible sports cars are getting a little rare these days, but the 718 Boxster GTS certainly doesn't have the run of the segment. BMW offers its new Z4, for instance, and the Jaguar F-Type convertible is another appealing alternative. Perhaps the most serious challenger is the all-new Chevrolet Corvette convertible, which offers just as much of the sports car experience as the Porsche but at a lower price.

The Boxster is, without a doubt, a convertible sports car. And because of that, it drives unlike most anything else it competes against. To get the full GTS 4.0 experience, it's important to begin with the top down before starting the engine. With the twist of the left-hand mounted key, that familiar and evocative whir settles down into a slightly clattery idle. A brief prod of the throttle pedal sends the revs up and reminds you just how good a naturally aspirated flat six-cylinder engine sounds.
Lightness is the name of the game as both the clutch and gear lever move with ease but still maintain a satisfactory mechanical feeling. The steering, too, feels light but not in the sense of being overly assisted. There's an uncommon amount of feel for a car in this segment too, and the Boxster GTS responds quickly without being darty. You'll soon find yourself a bit conflicted — should I relax and enjoy some top-down motoring on a lovely day, or should I downshift a couple of gears and let it rip?
Thankfully, the new-to-the-GTS 4.0-liter engine makes that decision an easy one. Revving it out to its 7,800 rpm redline will give even the most cynical enthusiast the tingles. But it's wise to keep the driving mode in Sport (Sport Plus will work, too) as the Boxster GTS 4.0 uses a cylinder deactivation system to improve efficiency under certain light-duty circumstances. While the switchover cannot be felt, it can certainly be heard. And after listening to the flat-six howl, hearing the flat-three grumble is a bit off-putting.

The GTS 4.0 retains the familiar layout of other 718 Boxsters, albeit with an extra dose of simulated suede upholstery. The fuzzy stuff covers the seat centers, door panels, armrests, shift lever and steering wheel. As with any Porsche, you can further tailor the interior to suit any whim or taste (or lack thereof). The GTS' standard sport seats are well shaped and supportive. The optional Full Bucket race-style seats hold you in even more snugly, but they're primarily meant for track driving, not daily commuting, and they would not make for a comfortable experience on a warm summer's day.

Because of its convertible top, the Boxster loses some of the Cayman's practicality. That said, the Boxster holds 9.5 cubic feet between its front and rear trunks, which is a decent amount as long as you're not trying to take on anything bulky. For comparison purposes, BMW's Z4 holds 9.9 cubic feet. The new Chevrolet Corvette convertible holds 12.6 cubic feet.

Should you not want the full sport experience of the 20 mm lower suspension on the GTS 4.0, Porsche offers a middle ground with a 10 mm lower ride height, which promises a bit more ground clearance and a slightly softer spring rate. The Boxster GTS, like all other GTS models, though not inexpensive by any means, offers good value for the standard equipment when compared to a similarly optioned-up S model. You also get the 4.0-liter flat-six engine, which kind of makes the GTS worth the extra cost all by itself.

The 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster 25 is a limited-production variant built to commemorate the Boxster's 25-year anniversary. (Though the Boxster launched in the U.S. for model year 1997, it came out in Europe for 1996.) The Boxster 25, which is based on the GTS 4.0, is distinguished from other models by its bronze-colored wheels and air intakes. The only exterior paint schemes available are silver, white or black. They are paired to a red leather interior and red convertible top. Porsche says it's only going to sell 1,250 units worldwide, so if you're looking for a Boxster that's a little more special than the norm, the 25 could be it.
While the 718 Boxster is undeniably one of the best-handling convertible sports cars on the market, you could previously point to the car's lackluster turbocharged four-cylinder engine as a reason for a compromised résumé. Porsche has fixed this for 2021, however, with the introduction of the GTS 4.0 trim and its 394-horsepower 4.0-liter flat six-cylinder engine and six-speed manual. The new GTS has reignited our enthusiasm for the mid-engine Porsche and we can't wait to drop the top in the name of further evaluation.

FAQ
Is the Porsche 718 Boxster a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster:
- GTS 4.0 debuts with a 394-horsepower 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine
- Spyder now available with the automatic transmission
- Limited-production 718 Boxster 25 Years celebrates the model's 25th anniversary
- Part of the fourth 718 Boxster generation introduced for 2017
Is the Porsche 718 Boxster reliable?
Is the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster?
The least-expensive 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster is the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $62,000.
Other versions include:
- 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $62,000
- T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $71,000
- S 2dr Convertible (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $74,000
- GTS 4.0 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $88,900
- Spyder 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $97,300
- 25 Years 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $98,600
What are the different models of Porsche 718 Boxster?
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster Overview
The 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster is offered in the following submodels: 718 Boxster GTS 4.0, 718 Boxster Convertible, 718 Boxster Spyder. Available styles include 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), 25 Years 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M), Spyder 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M), S 2dr Convertible (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M), GTS 4.0 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M), and T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Porsche 718 Boxster models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine or a 4.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 414 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual. The 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What do people think of the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 718 Boxster 5.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 718 Boxster.
Pros
- Precise and nimble handling delivers confidence and driving fun
- Sweet power and sound from the Boxster GTS 4.0's engine
- Take less than 10 seconds to open or close the roof
Cons
- Four-cylinder engines lack refinement, aural flair of optional six-cylinder
- Breadth of options allows personalization but gets pricey in a hurry
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 718 Boxster featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster?
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster S 2dr Convertible (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster 25 Years 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
Which 2021 Porsche 718 Boxsters are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster.
Can't find a new 2021 Porsche 718 Boxsters you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Porsche for sale.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
What is the MPG of a 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster?
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), 6-speed manual, premium unleaded (required)
22 MPG compined MPG,
20 city MPG/26 highway MPG
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster 25 Years 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M), 6-speed manual, premium unleaded (required)
19 MPG compined MPG,
17 city MPG/24 highway MPG
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder 2dr Convertible (4.0L 6cyl 6M), 6-speed manual, premium unleaded (required)
19 MPG compined MPG,
17 city MPG/23 highway MPG
EPA Est. MPG | 22 |
Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Drive Train | rear wheel drive |
Displacement | 2.0 L |
Passenger Volume | N/A |
Wheelbase | 97.4 in. |
Length | 172.4 in. |
Width | N/A |
Height | 50.4 in. |
Curb Weight | 3021 lbs. |
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Porsche lease specials
Related 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster info
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