718 Boxster

Make
Porsche
Segment
Compact

For the longest time there's been rumors about a possible entry-level Porsche roadster, tentatively called the 718. Just a few days ago it was confirmed that such a model won't be happening. But the name itself will. According to a new report coming from Automobile, the next generation Boxster/Cayman twins will be renamed the 718. The idea is to copy the iconic 911 range concept by offering a range of variants, such as the base Carrera and Turbo, and coupes and convertibles.

The new 718 will absolutely retain its mid-engine setup and will offer an even wider range of performance levels. For example, the 2.0-liter flat-four will be the base offering, producing around 285 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. A larger 2.5-liter flat-four with about 360 hp and 345 lb-ft will be optional. A turbocharged version of that engine will offer as much as 400 hp. What's still unknown is whether or not the 718 will continue with the flat-six engines in the current Boxster/Cayman. The 2.7- and 3.4-liter units produce 265 and 340 hp, respectively. On paper, it makes little sense to continue with either. The next gen Boxster and Cayman, soon to be known as the 718 range, will debut sometime in 2016 as a 2017 model.