One definition of efficiency is a system that works only when it is needed, and then does so in a particularly effective way.

This was the guiding principle for our engineers in the development of the new electromechanical steering system. Whereas a conventional hydraulically assisted steering system draws engine power continuously, the electric motor in the electromechanical arrangement uses energy only when the steering wheel is actually turned. As a result, fuel consumption is reduced and the absence of hydraulic fluid eliminates the need for servicing, both of which also have benefits for the environment.

The Boxster concept was designed to offer outstanding cornering performance. The new steering

system delivers and it even improves the typical Porsche steering feel. It features a variable steering ratio and responds precisely and directly as well as providing customary agility, a high level of comfort and plenty of direct feedback from the road. Power steering Plus, the optional speed-sensitive power-steering system, minimizes steering effort during maneuvering and parking.

The SPORT button on the center console is fitted as standard. When selected, Sport mode is activated to provide greater response and enhanced driving pleasure. Throttle response becomes even more direct, the rev-limiter is adjusted to a harder setting and engine dynamics are tuned for performance driving. The auto start/stop function is also deactivated.

With the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission, the shift points are reconfigured to operate at higher engine speeds. Shift times are reduced and gearshifts become firmer and more immediate, while throttle-blip downshifts are accompanied by an emotive engine sound. Coasting mode is deactivated automatically.

Time is precious and every hundredth of a second counts. The optional Sport Chrono Package makes your driving experience priceless thanks to an even sportier tuning of throttle response and handling characteristics.

The package comprises dynamic transmission mounts, a performance display, a digital and analogue stopwatch and the SPORT PLUS button. When this is pressed, optional Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) switches to ‘Sport’ mode for harder damping and more direct steering and therefore, even more intensive road holding.

The trigger threshold for PSM is raised. Agility is perceptibly enhanced when braking for corners with PSM, allowing even sportier braking and exit acceleration. For even greater dexterity, PSM can be set to standby while the car is still in SPORT PLUS mode. For safety, it is set to intervene automatically only when ABS assistance is required.

In conjunction with optional PDK, the Sport Chrono Package comes with two additional functions for a sporty drive that borders on a motorsport experience. The first is ‘Launch Control’, which is designed to produce a racing start.

The second function is the involving ‘motorsport-derived gearshift strategy’. Using this, Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is geared up for the shortest possible shift times and optimum shift points,

while torque boosts during gear changes provide the maximum acceleration available. This involving experience is further enhanced by overrun downshifts and the throttle-blip function for uncompromising driving pleasure.

An additional display in the steering wheel or either the instrument cluster indicates the SPORT or SPORT PLUS buttons and, with PDK, Launch Control have been activated. In conjunction with the optional Porsche Communication Management (PCM), a special display enables you to view, store and evaluate lap times or other driving times. It shows the total driving time, lap distance, lap number and lap times recorded so far.

Dynamic transmission mounts are included as part of the optional Sport Chrono Package. They are designed to enhance both performance and comfort.

The electronically controlled system minimizes the oscillations and vibrations of the entire drive train, especially the engine.

The transmission is bolted to the body by two mounts. Like any mass, it obeys the law of inertia. This means that it will continue moving in a uniformly straight line unless some force causes it to change direction. Put more simply: when you are driving into a bend, the vehicle will follow your steering but, at first, the mass of the drive train will not. This means that the rear of the vehicle will ultimately be pushed outwards as a result of the drive train’s force of inertia.

Dynamic transmission mounts minimize this effect. Steering angle and both longitudinal and lateral acceleration are constantly recorded by sensors. The stiffness and damping performance of the transmission mounts adapt to changes in driving style and road surface conditions, which is achieved by use of a fluid with magnetic properties. This results in greater traction, perceptibly more stable handling under load change conditions and in fast corners and, in conjunction with the ‘Launch Control’ function for example, extremely fast acceleration.

Using the SPORT or SPORT PLUS button you can switch the dynamic transmission mounts from ‘Normal’ to ‘Sport’ or ‘Performance’ mode and intensify your driving pleasure.

In conjunction with optional PCM, the G-Force graphic on the TFT screen in the right-hand circular

instrument enables you to view the lateral and longitudinal forces as they act on the vehicle.

This optional system for increasing dynamic performance and stability varies the distribution of torque to the rear wheels and includes a mechanically locking rear differential.

When the car is driven assertively into a corner, moderate brake pressure is applied to the inside rear wheel. Consequently, a greater amount of drive force is distributed to the outside rear wheel, inducing an additional rotational pulse (yaw movement) around the vehicle’s vertical axis. This results in a direct and sporty steering action as the car enters the corner.

At low and medium vehicle speeds, PTV significantly increases agility and steering precision. At high speeds and when accelerating out of corners, the rear differential lock ensures greater driving stability on a range of surface conditions, including the wet and snow.

The results are remarkable stability, easier handling and outstanding traction as well as greater agility at every speed with precise steering and stable load transfer characteristics. What else? As ever, lots of excitement at every twist and turn.

Optional PASM, the electronic damping control system, suits the new Boxster models down to the ground. PASM actively and continuously regulates the damping force for each wheel according to the road conditions and driving style. In addition, the suspension is lowered by 10 mm.

The driver can select between two different modes: ‘Normal’ which is a blend of performance and comfort, and ‘Sport’ where the setup is much firmer. Depending on the mode selected, therefore, PASM can be both sportier and more comfortable than the standard chassis. The PASM control unit evaluates the driving conditions and modifies the damping force on each of the wheels in accordance with the selected mode.

Sensors record the body movements that accompany powerful acceleration, braking or uneven road

surfaces. This enables intelligent adaptation of damper stiffness for the selected mode, optimizing contact between each individual tire and the road and reducing pitch.

In ‘Sport’ mode, the suspension is set to a harder damper rating. On uneven roads, PASM immediately switches to a softer rating, thereby improving contact between the tires and the road. When the road surface improves, PASM automatically reverts to the original, harder rating. If ‘Normal’ mode is selected and the driver’s style becomes more assertive, PASM switches to a harder rating to increase driving stability and road safety.

The results are tangible: increased driving stability, enhanced driving pleasure and improved performance.

The standard wheels on the new Boxster models have been enlarged by one inch compared with those of the previous models. Made from a lightweight alloy, the larger wheels reinforce the car’s imposing presence and further improve sporty performance.

The new Boxster is equipped with 18-inch wheels. Their minimalist five-spoke design is sporty and elegant in equal measure. Tyre sizes are 235/45 ZR 18 and 265/45 ZR 18 at the front and rear respectively.

The Boxster S has 19-inch wheels with a dynamic dual-spoke design. The tire size at the front is

235/40 ZR 19 and 265/40 ZR 19 at the rear.

The larger rolling circumference improves comfort and performance. At the same time, the rolling resistance of the new generation of tires has been reduced which, in turn, helps to reduce fuel consumption.

Wheels up to 20 inches are available as an option.

The standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sends warnings to the on-board computer’s

display screen in the event of low tire pressure. The 4.6-inch TFT screen in the instrument cluster enables the driver to check the pressure in all four tires. The system updates quickly and accurately after an engine start, tire pressure correction or wheel change – for increased comfort and safety.

Clear glass halogen headlights are fitted as standard on the Boxster. The Boxster S is equipped as standard with Bi-Xenon(TM) headlights. On both models, LED daytime running lights and position lights are housed in a separate auxiliary light unit above the outer air intakes. LEDs provide powerful illumination, respond extremely rapidly to driver input, offer a longer service life and have an unmistakable appearance.

LED technology opens up entirely new possibilities for designers. Not only are LEDs capable of fulfilling all the functions of the imposing taillights and third brake light, they are integral to safety and create a look that is unmistakable, day and night.

Why should independence be enjoyed only at night? The optional Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), which comprises Bi-Xenon(TM) headlights with halogen main-beam headlights, a headlight cleaning system and automatic dynamic range control, provides uniform illumination of the road whether low or main beam is selected.

The dynamic cornering light function swivels the main headlights towards the inside of a curve based on steering angle and road speed. Put simply, a greater part of the road ahead is illuminated the moment you enter a curve.

The system also includes a speed-sensitive headlight range control function. With adaptive light systems, it is possible for the maximum range of the low beams and their lighting power to be adjusted as a function of the speed of the vehicle. PDLS takes care of this automatically in two stages. Stage 1 is the basic position, optimized for driving at lower speeds such as in city traffic. Stage 2 is designed for driving at faster speeds, such as when on the motorway. Another function of PDLS is the adverse weather function. Activated when you switch on the rear fog light, it reduces the effect of reflection phenomena in poor visibility conditions.

In the new Boxster models, automatic headlight activation is available as standard. The system

automatically switches between daytime running lights and low beam based on ambient lighting conditions.