2008 Porsche Boxster S Photos, engines & full specs

Porsche refreshed the second generation of the Boxster and unveiled it in 2008 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, revealing additional goodies that lured customers to it, even though times were difficult.

Launching a refreshed version of an existing car during the world financial crisis might not be the best idea, but Porsche knew that improvement was the only way to survive in a struggling market. As a result, in late 2008, it unveiled a revised, more powerful, and better-equipped Boxster on American soil in the sunny Californian environment. Even though it couldn’t hope for an impressive boost in sales, at least it could keep the assembly lines open and help the brand survive during those challenging times. In addition, for the European market, Porsche had to improve its vehicles to fit into the Euro 5 Emission standards rules, which became mandatory in September 2009.

Like most facelifts made, the 2009 Boxster received a new front fascia adorned with LED fog lamps mounted on the upper areas of the side scoops. The headlights above them were also refreshed and offered a clear-lenses look for a shaper appearance and also included the turn signals. On the lower bumper, in the middle, the German sports car manufacturer installed an air intake that cooled the radiators behind it. On its sides, the standard 18” light alloy wheels were wider than on the non-facelifted version, wearing 235/40 ZR tires up front and 265/40 tires out back, with an option for a set of 19” light alloy wheels.

Inside, the modifications continued with the introduction of Porsche’s CDR-30 sound unit, which was enhanced by a monochromatic display and a CD player that could also play MP3 files. A new Porsche Communication Management infotainment system featured a 6.5” touchscreen color on the center stack. As an option, customers could get an eleven-speaker Bose sound system.

But still, the most significant improvements were made under the car’s skin. The mid-engined car featured a flat-six naturally aspirated powerplant that produced 15 more ponies than on the pre-facelifted version. In addition, thanks to new technologies, it was also more fuel efficient. Porsche paired it with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a seven-speed automatic (dual-clutch) PDK transmission. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential that helped drivers keep the car under control during high-speed cornering. Thanks to these improvements, the car could rocket from a standstill to 100 kph (62 mph) in 5.2 seconds. The suspension was also improved with the PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) system that continuously adjusted the dampers. Furthermore, the braking system was significantly improved. Its 318 mm (12.51”) front rotors and the rear 299 mm (11.77”) discs were provided extra stopping power thanks to the four-piston calipers on both axles. Furthermore, Porsche offered the Boxster S with a carbo-ceramic disc brake kit.