The Porsche Boxster: ladies, get into the drivers seat

By Petrina Gentile

From my experience, the Porsche Boxster has just never seemed to be a chick car. You rarely see a woman behind the wheel; they usually occupy the passenger seat. I don’t understand why: It’s a sleek, stylish ride that is eco-friendly and reasonably priced compared to the competition.

My test vehicle, a 2008 Porsche Boxster base model, is $58,100. It comes with six airbags (driver and passenger airbags, thorax airbags, and head airbags), ABS, air conditioning, an anti-theft system, keyless entry, a CD player, power windows, and a power top with heated glass rear window. You can load it up with options such as bi-xenon headlamps ($1,530), heated front seats ($680), a Bose premium sound package ($2,330), and 18-inch Boxster S wheels ($1,730), but that pushes the price up fast. As tested, it’s $65,525. You could just move up a model to the S trim, which costs $70,200; it has more power, extra standard equipment, and twin exhaust tips. A Limited Edition Boxster ($61,700) and a Limited Edition Boxster S ($73,900) are also up for grabs.

At first sight, I’m intrigued yet intimidated by the Porsche Boxster; it just oozes testosterone and taunts me. I approach cautiously, raising the door handle and sliding into its firm yet supportive black leather seats. It takes time to find the ideal seating position; you have to fiddle with manual seat adjustments. Key in hand, I reach for the ignition, but it’s not there. I forget: It’s left of the steering wheel.

Fire up the engine and an intoxicating growl from its massive single exhaust outlet fills the air. Power comes from a 2.7-litre flat 6-cylinder engine, which delivers 245 horsepower and 201 lb-ft of torque. Its ride and handling are superb. Its low centre of gravity makes it fun to drive, its tires sticking to the pavement at all times. It’s agile, yet easy to control along curves and bends. As far as fuel economy, it’s decent. The Boxster averages 10.1L/100 km in the city and 6.8L/100 km on the highway. Plus, oil changes are recommended every 20,000 km or once a year. That’s a feature I love — better on your pocketbook and the environment.

Top up or down, the Boxster’s lines and curves blend beautifully along its body. The power soft top works well — one clasp to unfasten and one button to raise and lower the roof, which only takes 12 seconds. When you’re traveling topless, a wind deflector ($525) works well at keeping unruly locks tame. For year-round drivability, a hard top is also available for $3,090.

Inside, the layout is straightforward and simple. The cup holders are nicely hidden in the front fascia for a clean look; however, when open, my small cup of java dangles about dangerously. I love the Boxster’s two trunks — one in the front and one in the rear. Even though they’re both small, they’re useable. There’s enough luggage space for a weekend getaway.

Sorry guys, but deep down, maybe the Porsche Boxster really is a chick car.

Petrina Gentile is one of Canada’s top auto reviewers.

Image courtesy stock.xchng