What is it?
The paint has only dried on the new generation 911 but the Porsche march continues unabated with the third generation Boxster. Proving that downsizing is not just restricted to the family car market the new Boxster is lighter than its predecessor and sports smaller engines. The entry level model is fitted with a 2.7-litre flat six. Despite this the new car is more powerful with outputs ranging from 265- to 315hp in the Boxster S.
Why's it here?
Having unveiled the 911 coupé in Frankfurt and the Cabriolet version in Detroit, Porsche seems determined to display a new car at every major motor show. For the first time the Boxster moves away from the styling of its big brother with 918 influences around the front end and, like the rest of the Porsche range, a Panamera inspired interior.
Show stopper or floor filler?
With the new 911 now moved upmarket the Boxster is probably more relevant than it was before. Some will still say it is the Porsche for those who cannot afford a 911 but a mid-engined ragtop is going to draw a crowd in its own right.