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More Rumors Of Sub-Boxster Porsche Production

 
5 1,556 views Aug 18, 2010
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Entry-level Porsche Roadster rendering

HI-RES GALLERY: Entry-level Porsche Roadster rendering

Hints from executives, rumors, and outright denials have circulated the web for over a year now, and still we're no closer to knowing for certain if a sub-Boxster model is on its way. With the recent appointment of Matthias Muller to the CEO position at Porsche, however, the new entry-level Porsche is looking more likely than ever.

The vehicle, if it's built, will be based on the shared architecture of the Volkswagen Bluesport roadster, shown to media and popular praise at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, nearly two years ago. Though the VW concept was shown with a green-oriented 2.0-liter, 180-horsepower four-cylinder turbodiesel, the Porsche variant is expected to be gasoline-only to better mate with Porsche's performance image.

Those fearing a shift to--gasp--front-wheel drive need not bite their fists, as the Bluesport concept is a mid-engine, rear-drive car. Weight distribution should be good for handling as well, with a 45:55 front:rear ratio. A six-speed dual-clutch gearbox was specced to the concept, though Porsche may use its own PDK unit for its version.

The latest report also suggests that the next Boxster (and the related Cayman) may grow in size and features to allow room in the lineup for the new smallest roadster. For more perspective on the possibility of a sub-Boxster model, check out our previous story here.

[Autocar]





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Comments (5)

  1. By NoNameDenton Posted: 8/18/2010 4:58pm PDT

    I am not gonna hold my breath on this rumor till some prototypes start showing up on the road, and if this is made, I hope they stick with boxer engines, how about some 4 cylinders with DI and one model with a turbo?
     
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  2. By WizardsLore Posted: 8/18/2010 7:56pm PDT

    NND - i think that a 4 cylinder with a supercharger may be the better option..it would breath easier out the back with the forced induction. Also it will assist with acceleration and performance handling while not having to worry about outright speed.
     
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  3. By R2Dad Posted: 8/18/2010 9:30pm PDT

    There are so many ways to screw this up, I doubt anyone at Porsche or VW will manage to develop significant incremental unit volume without seriously compromising the Porsche lineup. The Boxster already has the least compelling acceleration in the segment. There is certainly room below the Boxster price point for something, but that something shouldn't look like a 997 or Boxster or perform as well as the TT. VW wants the Porsche premium without the Porsche performance or Porsche costs. VW wants to stuff their off-the-shelf 2.0 into a pig and call it a Porsche. Purists aren't the only ones going to squeal. That was why the Bluesport looked so appealing. A midengine TDI is frugal, has balance and torque, and didn't have to have great top speed to make owners happy. Plus the mileage element would help corporate CAFE targets.
     
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  4. By Marlo Posted: 8/18/2010 10:44pm PDT

    Skip the cut rate sports car Porsche if its going to cost as much as the outgoing Boxster. Make a front engine rear drive coupe/convertible to go up against the 3 series and C class start it around 50k w/ N/A six, moving to a supercharged six of various tunes (S,RS). Thus allowing the Boxster/Cayman to get some sort of turbo six whether it be 2.7 or 3.0(S) liter along with a more sport focused attitude, start those around 57K.
     
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  5. By NoNameDenton Posted: 8/19/2010 12:50pm PDT

    WizardsLore, I would normally agree with you, but Porsche has a lot of history with using turbos.
     
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