Spy video: Porsche's upcoming Boxster RS variant

Almost completely undisguised prototypes of Porsche’s facelifted Boxster have been spotted in photos and video undergoing final testing ahead of the car’s reveal planned for later this year. Like the recently revealed 911 facelift, the upgrades planned for the Boxster (and its Cayman sibling) will be minor with only a few revisions to the bodywork. The list of changes includes LED taillights, reshaped headlamps and a new muffler design.

The latest facelift could also see the introduction of a new ‘RS’ variant of the Boxster, as revealed by this latest video. The prototype seen here is sporting a fixed roof (though this could only be a temporary measure) as well as an oversized fixed rear wing and new diffuser. Other clues hinting that this could a new RS Boxster are the plastic rear window (designed to save weight) as well as the full roll cage and carbon ceramic brakes.

The video shows the car in action both on the track and the street near the Nurburgring. Judging by the squealing tires and revving engine, it's having the spurs put to it quite well, but never seems to lack composure or traction, though it does get a bit sideways exiting the notoriously tough, heavily banked Karrussel.

Last year saw the introduction of Porsche’s VarioCam Plus valve technology for the Boxster and Cayman range, so any new changes to the engine lineup will be minimal. Porsche will likely add new direct-injection technology, which should see a boost in performance and reduction in fuel consumption. The sports carmaker’s new seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission could also be made an option as a replacement for its automatic gearboxes.

Click here to see more spy shots of the standard Boxster models.