Now that we’ve dipped our toes in Porsche’s new-wave turbocharged water at the Frankfurt Motor Show, we can say that our initial lack of sacrilege fear has been confirmed. The new 3-liter twin-turbo boxer is a doll. But what about its four-cylinder cousin that will power the 2017 Boxster and Cayman?
It’s still too early to have a complete view, but, so far, things are looking sounding good. You don’t have to take our word for this, you can check out the 2017 Boxster S’ aural side in the video below.
The clip shows the open-top prototype lapping the Nurburgring and the voice of that flat four sounds sweet to us. Sure, Subaru has shown how awesome four-pot boxers can sing years ago, but this engine clearly shows Porsche’s distinct trademark.
Then again, it’s not like Zuffenhausen doesn’t have a four-cylinder engine history, so we expecting its mid-engined models heart transplant to bring such a pleasant experience.
The numbers (still rumors for now)
Porsche might never announce this officially, but its upcoming turbo fours are based on the new 3.0 twin-turbo that now powers the Carrera models. To put it bluntly, we’re talking about shaving off a pair of cylinders.
In a more detailed chat, we have to mention the rumor mill sees Porsche releasing a two-liter unit, as well as two power versions of a 2.5-liter mill.
The standard Boxster/Cayman is expected to be powered by a 2.0-liter boxer delivering 240 hp. As for the S models, these should pack a 300 hp 2.5-liter heart, while the GTS edition will probably be motivated by a 370 hp incarnation of the 2.5-liter engine.
While the 911 Carrera and Carrera S skipped the variable turbocharging of the 911 Turbo, the Boxster and Cayman are expected to say no to the twin-turbo path altogether. While the refreshed Porsches should start arriving early next year, we hope to get our hands on more info by then.
Porsche is also expected to switch positions for the pair of mid-engine models. For instance, on certain markets, the Cayman could be offered as the less expensive model.
PS: to keep up the potentially controversial note above, we have to admit we're looking forward to the all-too-flawed Boxster-vs-A45 AMG comparo.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
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