Porsche recently introduced the newest Boxster variant, the Spyder, alongside the Cayman GT4. Sitting at the top of the lineup, the Spyder is the most expensive Boxster you can buy. But based on what we’ve seen, it also looks like it may be the perfect convertible.

1. Big Power

Enthusiasts got their wish when Porsche replaced the Boxster’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a flat-six. The Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder secures its place at the top of the lineup with a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six delivering 414 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque. The 718 Cayman GT4 gets the same engine. There’s only one transmission option, too: a six-speed manual automatically rev-match on downshifts.

Essentially, the Spyder got a bored and stroked version of the 992-generation 911’s 3.0-liter flat-six. In addition to removing the turbocharger, engineers added a new crankshaft, heads, connecting rods, valves, and pistons to increase redline. At 7600 rpm, this engine makes an extra 39 hp compared to the 2016 Boxster Spyder. The 309 lb-ft of torque from 5000-6800 rpm, however, is the same as the 2016 model.

2. A Unique Race-Oriented Interior

To help justify the high price, Porsche gave the Boxster Spyder race-oriented equipment like Sport Seats Plus with raised side bolsters and a GT Sport steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara. The lower section of the dashboard and the shift lever also use Alcantara for a race-inspired vibe. The trim is finished out in the body color but you can elect to use other trim materials. The 718 Spyder’s shift lever is shorter than that of the regular Boxster, giving you a more direct feel when shifting gears.

The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with the Sound Package Plus is standard, as is air conditioning. There are also plenty of options you can add such as Apple CarPlay, navigation, Porsche Connect and more.

Porsche also offers a Spyder Classic Interior Package that includes extended Alcantara upholstery, GT Silver Metallic trim, and dual-tone leather in black and Bordeaux Red. You can opt for a new dual-tone fabric top in black and red, a callback to the Porsche racing cars of the past. You can even request contrasting stitching in your choice of red, silver, or yellow.

3. Gorgeous Styling

The Boxster already looks great, but Porsche used small, classy touches to take Spyder to the next level. The most obvious change is the revised deck lid that now has two flying buttresses that serve as a callback to the classic 911 Speedster. There’s also a manually-manipulated fabric top that looks sporty and saves weight.

The 718 Spyder also shares many of the race-inspired features you’ll find in the 718 Cayman GT4 Coupe. The new rear diffuser minimizes lift, while the revised front outlet offers enhanced cooling and downforce. There’s also an extending rear spoiler that creates extra downforce. The convertible rides on distinctive, twin five-spoke wheels painted silver for a truly stylish appearance.

Worth the Hype?

The $96,300 sticker price makes the 718 Spyder the most expensive Boxster model to date.

But the 718 Spyder isn’t just about status and a prestigious badge. It’s about the experience of revving up that engine so you can hear it echo around you in a long tunnel or when you’re in the quiet of the countryside on longer drives. Porsche took everything they knew about their fans love of the driving experience and crafted the 718 Spyder to be a luxury convertible that would be just as comfortable on the race track as it is on the open highways.

The Boxster Spyder is available for order and should be arriving in dealer showrooms in Spring 2020. 

All images provided by the manufacturer unless otherwise noted.