Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster

Porsche has unveiled the refreshed Boxster convertible, which has gained the 718 moniker in addition to some subtle changes to the exterior design. Now sporting an engine lineup of turbocharged flat-fours that have anywhere between 300 and 350 hp, the 718 Boxster is more powerful and more efficient than the car it replaces.

Even though we haven’t driven the 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster yet, we can compare its styling to the outgoing model. Viewed from afar, it’s hard to pinpoint the changes made to the car’s exterior design, but look closely and they’ll pop out. Up front, the biggest difference on the 2017 model is in the lower air intakes. A larger center opening blends well with the two openings flanking it. Additionally, the LED light strips on the old car were integrated into the top part of the side openings of the front air intakes whereas the new car has them positioned right above that.

From the side, it’s harder to tell the difference between the outgoing Boxster and the refreshed 718 because the design hasn’t really changed much. The only hint that you’re looking at the 2017 718 Boxster (and not the older model) can be found in the side air intake. The one in the new car protrudes outward slightly more than the one found in the outgoing model. Out back, the 2017 718 Boxster features clear taillight housings instead of the red ones in the outgoing car. Additionally, the new car features integrated deflectors on the rear bumper that separate the rear diffuser from the rest of the bumper.

The interior is where the changes between the 2017 718 Boxster and the outgoing model are most noticeable. While the center stack layout is the same, the buttons are different and less cluttered in the new car. In addition, the steering wheel features smaller spokes and more metallic finishes. The air vents have been reshaped from squares with rounded edges to ovals with flat bottoms, while the integrated stopwatch that comes with the Sport Chrono package is now positioned closer to the windshield instead of in between the two center air vents.

The 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster promises to be a heavy hitter and now features turbocharged power in addition to the car’s revised suspension and electric power steering system. Does Porsche’s refreshed mid-engine convertible have what it takes to take on its rivals? Is it refreshing or revolting? Sound off in the comments below.

Last week’s Refreshing or Revolting featured the 2017 Nissan Armada, and the responses were mostly negative.

“I think it is hideous, as is the Infinti QX80,” said Outbackroo.

“Revolting. Yuck!” said Kodiak4x4.

“The exterior shape, details and overall appearance reads as old.  It might be capable, but when compared to the full size GM offerings or even the Sequoia, it doesn’t measure up,” said Schaffer.

“Well it’s kind of hard not to be refreshing compared to a 2003 design, but on its own it’s still ugly and seems more like a lazy QX80 rebadge than anything else,” said tortillarat.

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